Jewel of winter

Who needs a glass of wine or a dessert after a meal when you have the pomegranate?

Really? The humble pomegranate juice is a wonderful healthy substitute for wine (it has 3 times the amount of anti-oxidants) and those with a sweet tooth (a small amount after a meal will satisfy the craving).

This juicy, red fruit is an eternal favorite with most children and adults.

Some may find it dreary to peel off pomegranate skin sometimes, but the effort is worth it. We tell you why.

The first time I realised the pomegranate is a medicinal fruit was when it was prescribed to me for diarrhea. I thought it was an old wives’ tale but I had it because my mother made me. As I studied nutrition I learnt more about this unassuming fruit.

Pomegranate juice is a known remedy for diarrhea. Pomegranate juice is a wonderful antidote handed down from generation to generation for loose motions. The juice if had 2-3 times a day instantly stops the loose motions.

It has been researched that pomegranate may prevent prostrate cancer and even may regress chances of developing it.

Pomegranate has extraordinary properties as an external and internal health benefactor. It is high in anti-oxidants and helps in detoxification of the body and removes toxins. Anti-oxidants present in this wonder fruit keeps LDL or the “bad” cholesterol in check too.

Pomegranate juice actually increases the blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart.

Research has shown that consuming eight ounces of pomegranate juice daily for three months improves the amount of oxygen pumped up to the heart muscle of coronary heart disease patients.

Protects against free radicals that increase cholesterol and are a cause of many cancers.

Consumption of pomegranate might prevent and even slow down Alzheimer’s disease.

Also known as the ‘jewel of winter, it contains potassium and has high fiber too.

Pomegranate oil acts as a moisturiser, has natural estrogenic properties, is anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, improves skin elasticity and protects the skin. Hence, it is a beauty tonic.

Its strong anti-inflammatory properties help to reduce swelling and ease muscular aches and pains.

Various spas and beauty products have discovered the benefits of pomegranate. Spa treatments, anti-aging products, and refreshing spa drinks all have started containing the pomegranate.

They contain vitamin C, citric acid, tannin and many useful alkaloids which make them a powerhouse of beauty and health.

Culinary uses

Toss it in salads, eat it by itself, have it as a juice, or add it as a fruit chaat or a smoothie! It is one fruit that can be combined with cooked food without being acidic. Eat it regularly and see your life becoming healthier.

(The writer is a Mumbai-based

nutritionist, obesity and health consultant)