November is National Pomegranate Month, and what better way to pay homage to this nutrient packed fruit than to share with you a few health benefits of this essential super food:
Low Calorie
The average pomegranate has only about 100 calories. A low calorie and high fiber fruit such as the pomegranate makes an excellent snack choice that will keep you feeling full and satisfied until your next meal. Five Star Tip: Try mixing pomegranate seeds with low fat yogurt and honey for a healthy and delicious snack.
Antioxidants
A whole pomegranate (including its seeds) provides over 100 phytonutrients which are associated with antioxidant properties. Antioxidants are the chemicals that protect the body against free radical damage and are linked to cardiac and cancer protection. You can get the most out of the pomegranate’s antioxidants by drinking its juice.
Potassium
Pomegranates are also a good source of Potassium. Potassium is a mineral that can attribute to healthy heart functions and is also an electrolyte that is important for muscle function. Many people associate bananas with potassium, but do not realize that pomegranates are just as good as a source of potassium!
Vitamin C
Incorporating pomegranates into your diet is an excellent way to obtain vitamin C. Vitamin C supports a healthy immune system, which is especially important when it comes to senior health and the battle to ward off sicknesses during cold and flu season.
As you can see, there are many important health benefits that can be attributable to incorporating pomegranates into your diet. With the holidays upon us and looking to curb our caloric intake, snack on a pomegranate as an in-between meal treat, have one for breakfast, or try mixing its juice into your favorite smoothie.
Be sure to also try this quick and delicious recipe for a pomegranate yogurt dip that you can pair with your favorite raw vegetables.
Annette Catalfano, RDN
Corporate Dietician
Five Star Senior Living
Pomegranate Yogurt Dip
Ingredients You’ll Need
2 cups plain yogurt
¼ cup pomegranate juice
2 chopped scallions
¼ cup cilantro
¼ tsp salt
Mint (to garnish)
Pomegranate seeds (to garnish)
Instructions
- Combine 2 cups plain yogurt, ¼ cup pomegranate juice, 2 chopped scallions, ¼ cup cilantro, and ¼ tsp of salt in a bowl.
- Gently stir all the ingredients together.
- Garnish with pomegranate seeds and fresh mint, and serve with raw vegetables.