Why is pomegranate good for muscles and how much to eat? Here’s what scientists from Switzerland think

Pomegranate is a favorite fruit (which is actually a berry). It is used to make juices, sauces, it is eaten fresh, and the grains are often used to decorate breakfasts and desserts. Scientists from Switzerland have recently discovered that, among other things, pomegranate has a positive effect on muscle and bone health, especially for people of age.

Member of the British Association of Nutritiologists, Head of Nutritiology Department of Atlas Holding Company

Pomegranate is not dangerous at all, unless you are allergic to it.

It’s all about a special compound – urolithin A. This is exactly what is found in pomegranate. Urolithin helps mitochondria – the organs in the cell that are responsible for providing it with energy – to function better. In an experiment, scientists found that urolithin stimulates the creation of new mitochondria – just like physical activity. In addition, it is the only compound that restores the ability of cells to get rid of “broken” mitochondria. In young people, this process runs itself, but as we age, it slows down or goes away altogether. This, in turn, provokes a loss of bone and muscle mass and general weakness.

What else is useful pomegranate?

member of the Russian Union of Nutriciologists and Nutritionists, co-founder of the online school PRO-Health

Pomegranate contains phosphorus, calcium and magnesium. These are minerals that strengthen the walls of blood vessels and help blood circulation. Also, the fruit is saturated with vitamin C and is very useful in the winter season.

It is popularly believed that pomegranate increases hemoglobin levels. This is a myth. Iron is contained only in the peel of the fruit, and we usually do not eat it. In addition, plant products in principle contain non-heme iron, which is only 5-10% absorbed by the body.

To get a substance that restores the inner wall of blood vessels, you need to eat pomegranate seeds. It is not necessary to swallow them, it is enough to chew them thoroughly and spit them out.

Lisa: Pomegranate is dominated by polyphenols – phytochemicals with beneficial properties. For example, punicalagin is a powerful antioxidant with anti-inflammatory effects. Also, pomegranate is an excellent source of fiber, vitamin C and other beneficial substances. It is better to eat pomegranate whole, not in the form of juice, which lacks the fiber we need so much.

One cup of pomegranate seeds weighing about 150 g contains 7 g of fiber, 3 g of protein, 30% of the daily value of vitamin C, 36% of the daily value of vitamin K, 16% of the daily value of folate (important for the formation of new blood cells and the nervous system) and 12% of the daily value of potassium.

What can be dangerous pomegranate?

Xenia: I would like to point out that you should not eat pomegranate by the kilograms. It contains a high amount of fructose, and this is fraught with at least overweight gain and digestive problems. I also do not recommend drinking pomegranate juice. People who already have problems with the gastrointestinal tract, it is better to refrain from eating this fruit at all.

Lisa: As for pomegranate juice, a large amount of concentrated drink can cause side effects if you are taking blood thinners. In such a case, consultation with your doctor is necessary.