Why you should have a bowl of pomegranate every morning

Taking a cue from her, we reached out to experts to learn more about the benefits (or not) of having a bowl of ‘anaar’ every morning.

Loaded with powerful antioxidants, particularly punicalagins and anthocyanins, pomegranates protect the body against free radical damage and oxidative stress. It also makes the skin glow, said Dr Ranga Santosh Kumar, consultant general physician and diabetologist, Yashoda Hospitals, Hyderabad.

Pomegranate is good for constipation (Photo: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

Their polyphenols act as powerful antioxidants, reducing inflammation and protecting cells from damage. “Pomegranate juice can improve blood flow and help prevent cholesterol buildup in arteries due to its anti-inflammatory properties,” said Dr Rohini Patil, MBBS and nutritionist, founder Of Nutracy Lifestyle.

According to Dr Kumar, pomegranate is said to have a “positive impact on heart health by improving cholesterol levels, reducing blood pressure, and preventing arterial plaque buildup”.

What more? The anti-inflammatory compounds help tackle inflammation in the body. The intake of essential nutrients, including vitamins C and K, potassium, and dietary fibre is a must in your diet. “So, you can have a bowl of pomegranate in the morning. The fibre content can contribute to better digestion, which helps prevent constipation,” said Dr Kumar.

The fibre in pomegranates supports gut health by reducing inflammation and aiding digestion, beneficial for conditions like IBS and Crohn’s disease, mentioned Dr Patil.

While a bowl of pomegranate may help, Dr Kumar emphasised a balanced and diverse diet for better immunity and longevity.

DISCLAIMER: This article is based on information from the public domain and/or the experts we spoke to. Always consult your health practitioner before starting any routine.