Q: Is pomegranate more than just a fruit?
A: Absolutely! While you probably know pomegranate as a delicious fruit, it’s also a nutrient-packed powerhouse with a myriad of health benefits. If you’re not familiar with the pomegranate, it’s a round red fruit which grows on small trees. One pomegranate contains hundreds of individual seed casings called arils which must be separated from the rest of the fruit. De-seeding a pomegranate can seem like a daunting task (read on for some tips to get this done quickly and easily!), but accessing the nutritious and delicious seeds are well worth it.
Q: What health benefits do pomegranates provide?
A: For starters, pomegranates contain three times the amount of polyphenols than you’ll find in red wine or green tea. These potent antioxidants help protect your body’s cells from the attack of potentially harmful free radicals. It’s no wonder pomegranate extract finds its way into many popular antioxidant supplements.*
In addition to antioxidants, this fruit is rich in several health-helping vitamins and minerals, with a single pomegranate providing 40% of the recommended daily value of vitamin C, plus vitamins A, E and folic acid. Pomegranate is also a good source of fiber, zinc and potassium.
Q: Are there alternatives to eating pomegranates?
A: While we’d all like to take the time to peel and eat pomegranates, it’s much more convenient to simply add a supplement for daily use. Pomegranate extract capsules are an excellent way to easily get your daily intake. You could also drink to your health by adding pomegranate juice concentrate to smoothies for a tinge of tartness and a heap of goodness.
Pomegranate is also a key ingredient in many health and beauty supplements with its high zinc and vitamin C and E content. You’ll see this gem featured in soaps, toothpaste, lip balm, shampoo, lotion, shower gel and more! Take a look at our vast selection of pomegranate-infused beauty essentials.
Q: Is there an easy way to de-seed a pomegranate?
A: Here are some simple steps to de-seed a pomegranate in minutes without the mess.
1. Slice the pomegranate right down the middle.
2. Grab both sides and pull ever so slightly.
3. Hold one side with the seeds facing downward.
4. Gently hit the pomegranate with a wooden spoon into the bowl until the pomegranate is seed free.
5. Follow steps 3 and 4 with the other half of your pomegranate.
6. Remove any pulp and enjoy your fresh pomegranate seeds!
Watch this video from Holistic Health Coach Tami Hammond of NewSouthMama.com, who has the perfect two-minute solution to getting all those precious seeds:
Pomegranate and Blueberry Smoothie
Makes 1
¼ cup pomegranate juice concentrate or 1/2 cup fresh pomegranate seeds
½ cup frozen blueberries
½ cup nonfat plain yogurt
1/2 cup almond milk
1 scoop organic vanilla protein
Directions: Mix all ingredients in a blender and blend until smooth. Add water or ice to reach desired consistency.