It is a well-known fact that Pomegranate, or Anar is a super fruit that contains potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Not only that, Pomegranate is also excellent for the heart! The heart health and artery wellness benefits of Pomegranate, stem from its antioxidant and polyphenol content, which scientific studies have proven effective. The development of atherosclerosis through arterial damage creates dangerous cardiovascular diseases, which lead to heart attacks and strokes. Research shows that eating pomegranate in your diet helps protect arteries, while it reduces inflammation, improves blood flow, and shows potential to reverse certain types of arterial damage. Let’s take a look..
Rich source of antioxidantsThe antioxidant compounds in pomegranate consist of punicalagins, tannins and anthocyanins. These help in eliminating free radicals which are unstable body molecules, that generate oxidative stress. The process of oxidative stress develops through artery wall cell and tissue damage, which creates inflammation that results in plaque formation. The antioxidants in pomegranate protect blood vessels from damage, by making them flexible and healthy through their ability to decrease oxidative stress. Scientific studies show pomegranate juice contains more antioxidants than various other fruits and juices, which helps protect blood vessels and decreases heart disease risk.
Helps reduce cholesterol levelsLDL cholesterol gets its “bad cholesterol” name because its oxidation process leads to artery plaque development. The antioxidants present in pomegranate stop LDL cholesterol from undergoing oxidation, which stops plaque formation. Daily pomegranate juice consumption led to a 30% reduction in artery wall thickness, according to research which indicates decreased plaque development. Regular consumption of this fruit keeps arteries clear, which enables blood to flow freely and decreases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.Protects blood vessels from damageThe active components of pomegranate protect blood vessels from harm, and simultaneously enhance their operational health. The active compounds in pomegranate work to enhance the health of endothelial cells which form the innermost artery layer that controls blood vessel expansion, and blood flow. The improved state of the endothelium enables better blood pressure management which remains the leading cause of arterial damage. Daily pomegranate juice consumption results in a 12% reduction of systolic blood pressure according to research, which decreases the pressure on arteries and heart function. The improved blood circulation allows tissues and organs to receive their required oxygen and nutrients which results in superior cardiovascular health.
Anti-inflammatoryThe continuous inflammation within artery walls speeds up the process of damage accumulation, which results in plaque development. The antioxidants present in pomegranate demonstrate strong anti-inflammatory properties which help reduce heart disease risk factors including C-reactive protein (CRP). The anti-inflammatory properties of pomegranate protect artery walls from additional damage, while keeping existing plaques stable which reduces their chance of breaking apart and triggering heart attacks. The anti-inflammatory compounds in pomegranate enable arteries to heal naturally while preserving their health throughout the years.Reversal of artery damageResearch studies have shown that patients with carotid artery stenosis who drank pomegranate juice regularly for extended periods, experienced major reductions in their artery narrowing and plaque size. Medical studies prove pomegranate functions as a therapeutic agent for arterial damage because patients achieved a 35% reduction in their blocked arteries. The research findings create positive outcomes for people who have elevated cardiovascular disease risk. The combination of pomegranate consumption with healthy lifestyle choices, leads to the best results for maintaining heart and artery health.How to consume PomegranateThe best way to protect your arteries with pomegranate, involves eating the whole fruit along with juice that contains seeds. The seeds of pomegranates contain vital polyphenols along with dietary fibers, which function as antioxidants. Research shows that drinking one cup (250 ml) of pomegranate juice daily for several weeks or months leads to noticeable health improvements. Choose natural pomegranate juice products which do not contain added sugars. People who have medical conditions and take blood pressure medications need to consult their doctor before using pomegranate, as a dietary supplement.Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice
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