Those ruby red, juicy, and crunchy pomegranate seeds are always a delight to munch, aren’t they? Also known as the “fruit of paradise”, pomegranate or anar doesn’t just taste delicious, but also offers a host of health benefits.The fruit has been in use since ancient times, and is known for its medicinal properties. It is naturally sweet and loaded with antioxidants, fibre, vitamins, minerals, and flavonoids, making it a perfect combination for weight loss.
“Pomegranate is basically a functional food (food that has a potentially positive effect on health beyond basic nutrition) that benefits the overall metabolic syndrome and metabolic syndrome. This is closely linked to obesity, thus it can help in losing some extra kilos,” Komal Malik, head, clinical nutritionist, Max Hospital, Saket, told HealthShots.
More benefits of pomegranate
Polyphenols and conjugated linolenic acid in pomegranate can burn fat and boost metabolism.
Pomegranate is a rich source of anti-inflammatory properties, antioxidants, and fibre. This combination of nutrients can help to bind extra fat and cholesterol from the body.
“Therefore pomegranate can not only help in weight loss, but can also prevent weight gain,” said Malik.
Here’s how you can consume pomegranate for weight loss
You can easily have approximately 250-300 grams of pomegranate on a daily basis. Besides, you can drink pomegranate juice, but remember that it will be devoid of fibre. However, the other nutrients are still present in pomegranate, which can help in weight loss. It can also help to suppress your appetite. It’s a healthy alternative to sugar-laden beverages and provides many nutritional benefits which are required for weight loss, suggests nutritionist Komal Malik.
Pomegranate for glowing skin
Another critical feature of pomegranate is its ability to improve your skin health! Pomegranate is an excellent source of vitamin C, which makes your skin soft and smooth by reducing dryness. When applied topically, the oil contained in pomegranate seeds promotes regeneration of the epidermis (outer layer of skin) and skin repair. Moreover, pomegranate can prevent damage to the skin from harmful UV rays and guess what, it’s an anti-ageing superfood.
Nutritionist Komal Malik explained, “Pomegranate helps to improve your skin, because it helps to control your hormonal imbalance. Because of that, it helps to increase the rejuvenation, youthfulness, and beauty of the skin. In fact, several skincare products today are packed with pomegranate extract or seed oil, etc. That’s because it has a beneficial effect on the skin.
Here’s how you can use pomegranate for glowing skin
If you want to apply a pomegranate face pack, read on.
Ingredients you will need
- 1 tablespoon pomegranate paste (blend the seeds into a smooth paste)
- 1 tablespoon organic honey
Here’s what you must do:
- Mix both the ingredients to form a paste of medium consistency.
- Apply it to your face and wait for 30 minutes.
- Wash it off.
So ladies, what are you waiting for? Include pomegranate in your daily diet to burn more fat and make your skin acne or pimple-free, clear and glowing.