Pomegranate Seeds Calories

Pomegranate seeds have been traditionally used for various purposes, since thousands of years. The seed casings called arils compose the juicy part of the fruit. The surprising fact is that the hard shell of the fruit which we throw away, also offers numerous health benefits and is used as a home remedy for various ailments.

Pomegranate or Punica granatum is recognized as 'antioxidant powerhouse'. The name pomegranate is derived from a French word which means 'seeded apple'. Pomegranate is a deciduous shrub native to southeast Southwest Asia. Pomegranates from Afghanistan, Iran, Azerbaijan were known for their excellent quality all over the world. They were also cultivated in many other countries like Malaysia, Armenia and Turkey and were then introduced to the U.S. and Latin America.

Pomegranate Seeds Nutritional Value

One serving of approximately 100 g of pomegranate seeds contain:

Nutrition	Amount
Calories	68 kcal
Carbohydrates	17 g
Protein	1.0 g
Sugars	16.60 g
Vitamin C	6 mg
Calcium	3.0 mg
Iron	0.3 mg
Potassium	260 mg
Phosphorus	8 mg
Vitamin B1 (Thiamine)	0.03 mg
Vitamin B2 (Riboflavin)	0.06 mg
Vitamin B3 (Niacin)	0.30 mg
Vitamin B5 (Pantothenic acid)	0.60 mg
Vitamin B6	0.11 mg
Vitamin B9 (Folate)	6μg
Magnesium	3.0 mg
Zinc	0.12 mg
Dietary fiber	0.7 g
Cholesterol	0 mg

I think the table efficiently answers the question how many calories in pomegranate seeds. You must have noticed that the seeds are rich in various nutrients. Dried pomegranate arils come with a natural sweet and tart flavor and are available in markets all over the world. They are used in making granola bars, or for garnishing various salads, yogurts, and other dishes. The seeds provide good amount of fiber and dried whole arils are used as a spice known as anardana, in Indian and Pakistani cuisine. In Persian cuisine, they are used as a substitute for pomegranate syrup. Dried seeds are added to chutney and curry to get the required flavor. Pomegranate juice is rich in vitamin C, potassium, iron, and polyphenol antioxidants. It is packed with three types of polyphenols - tannins, anthocyanins, and ellagic acid, which are mainly responsible for the health benefits of pomegranate juice.

Pomegranate Seeds Health Benefits

Antioxidants from pomegranates prevent a wide range of diseases including cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Pomegranate works great for atherosclerosis (narrowing of arteries). Vitamins and minerals from the fruit make your immune system stronger. Calcium and phosphorus strengthen the bones and enhance the function of the brain cells. The seeds are also good for throat. The seeds and the juice help increase the percentage of hemoglobin and thus help fight anemia. They work great for breast cancer, lymphoma and are also recommended for diabetic patients. The antibacterial and antiviral properties of the seeds help protect teeth from plaque. They help maintain normal blood pressure levels and can slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease. The seeds improve the digestive health and help reduce the recurrence of prostate cancer. Pomegranate seed oil is a healthy oil. Pomegranate seeds calories being comparatively lower, the fruit can be included in weight loss diets.

Pomegranate Seeds Diet

Pomegranate supplements are believed to aid in weight loss. These supplements help burn fat and suppress your appetite. This way, they promote weight loss while boosting your energy levels. According to Ayurvedic principles, bitter astringent pomegranate seeds can counterbalance the effect of a diet high in sweet-fatty components.

Pomegranate seeds calories are considered healthy as the seeds are packed with vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. Since pomegranates are easily available in markets, it is possible to incorporate pomegranates in regular diet. It requires a little bit of patience to cut and open a pomegranate, but an opened pomegranate with hundreds of glistening red seeds is soothing to the eyes. I am sure, everyone enjoys its distinctive and delicious flavor.