FRUIT FACTS Why you should eat pomegranates This strangely structured fruit is delicious, healthy and has beauty benefits too

Not many know this but the pomegranate is native to Himalayas, India, Pakistan and Afghanistan. Pomegranates are sweet in taste and the redder the fruit is, the sweeter it tends to be. They are loaded with vitamins and anti-oxidants that are highly beneficial for our health and skin.

Here’s a list of the benefits of pomegranates that you didn’t know about:

· Pomegranates are packed with anti-oxidants like flavanoids that contain anticarcinogenic properties. Drinking pomegranate juice helps cut the risk of prostrate and breast cancer, especially for those in the higher risk category.

· Deficiency of iron i.e. anaemia usually includes symptoms like weakness, exhaustion and dizziness. Eating pomegranates is a good options as it is a rich source of iron.

· Pomegranate peels are helpful for seeking relief from diarrhoea and digestive problems. Boil the peels in some water and drink this water. Ailments like dysentery and cholera too can be curbed by consuming this water.

· The juice of fruit also contains anti-bacterial and antiviral properties that are beneficial to reduce dental plaque thus, oral health too.

· Cardiovascular health too can be improved by consuming pomegranates as regularly drinking their juice help maintains the good flow of blood in the body, thereby decreasing the risk of heart attack and strokes.

· Also the anti-oxidant properties are beneficial in lowering cholesterol levels in the body, and reducing the risk of arteriosclerosis.

· Eating pomegranates and drinking its juice is great for people suffering from diabetes as it beneficial in cutting down the risk of coronary heart diseases.

A glass of pomegranate juice contains about

· 40 per cent of the US Recommended Daily Allowance of Vitamin C.

· also has Vitamin A, E and folic acid in good quantities.

This juice has excellent antioxidant properties . Research suggests it may be helpful in preventing heart disease, heart attacks and stroke, if it is a part of a healthy diet and exercise program.