Expert Advice: How to Avoid 5 Common Mistakes When Eating Pomegranates for Better Health

Pomegranate is considered to be one of the most nutritious fruits as well as being delicious. They are full of antioxidants, including ellagitannins, anthocyanins, and organic acids, which protect cells from oxidative damage. To take full advantage of their benefits and avoid any potential risks, there are some important points to keep in mind.

Things to Avoid While Eating Pomegranate-

1. Ignoring the mess factor
You should avoid underestimating the potential mess. Pomegranates are known to be unsanitary because their juicy seeds, or arils, often spill and disfigure everything they come in contact with. “Use a large basin or sink and wear old clothes or an apron when preparing fruit,” said Batra. Cutting fruit in water is a good way to reduce splatter. While cutting, submerging the pomegranate in a basin of water helps absorb the liquid and facilitates the process of removing the seeds from the peel."

2. Eating rind
“Pomegranate peel is not fit for consumption even though there are tasty and healthy seeds inside. Its tough, thick outer skin is nasty and bitter,” added Dr Batra. So, focus on removing and savoring the juicy, sour-sweet arils inside. The easiest method to do this is to open the pomegranate to eat the seeds and then break the pomegranate.

3. Excess
You should avoid eating too many arils at once. Dr. "Pomegranate is rich in fiber, which is beneficial for digestion, but consuming too much pomegranate can cause digestive problems, such as upset stomach or diarrhea," said Batra. Moderation is key. A serving size of about half a cup of arils is enough to enjoy the fruit's health benefits without overdoing it. This way, you can enjoy the fruit while maintaining digestive comfort.

4. Forget about allergies
Pomegranate allergy is uncommon, although it can occur in some individuals. An allergic reaction can cause swelling, itching and breathing difficulties. It is important to stop eating pomegranate immediately and seek medical help if you experience any of these symptoms. By being aware of potential sensitivities it is possible to avoid major health problems and ensure a safe eating experience.

5. Discarding the whole fruit too quickly
Avoid throwing away the whole fruit if the outer skin is stained. Pomegranates occasionally have a deformed or scarred skin, although this always indicates that the seeds inside are of poor quality. “The thick skin of the pomegranate shields the seeds from within. If the fruit looks broken, make sure the inside is still tasty and the arils are still intact before throwing it away. Often, even without the outer layer, the seeds are flawless," highlighted Dr Batra.