Both pomegranate and cranberry are among the healthiest fruits in the world. Pomegranate is known for having rich antioxidants, whereas cranberry is famous for its high vitamin C and benefits in treating urinary tract infection. So, which juice is actually better? See the comparisons between pomegranate juice vs cranberry juice below!
Continue reading below to learn more about:
– The nutritional values of pomegranate juice and cranberry juice,
– The health benefits of pomegranate juice vs cranberry juice, and
– Which juice that is generally more recommended for you.
Nutrition
Both pomegranate and cranberry are among the healthiest fruits with very rich nutrients and antioxidants. They both have relatively sugar levels and calories, so they are unlikely to cause weight gain or obesity. But keep in mind that you should consume fruit juice in moderation; fruits naturally contain sugars, so excessive consumption also increases your sugar intake. See also: Orange Juice vs Apple Juice.
Pomegranate juice is generally better than cranberry juice in terms of nutrition. This is because pomegranate juice contains the highest levels of antioxidants, while having similar vitamins and minerals such as vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin K, vitamin B6, riboflavin, thiamin, pantothenic acid, and folate.
Cranberry juice actually has higher amounts of vitamin C and vitamin E. However, the other nutrients, such as vitamin K, thiamin, niacin, and pantothenic acid, are relatively lower. Cranberry juice also has high antioxidants, but it is not as rich as pomegranate juice.
Health Benefits
In addition to helping you fulfill your daily requirements of vitamins and minerals, pomegranate juice and cranberry juice can give further health benefits. Pomegranate juice’s high antioxidants can prevent oxidative damage caused by cholesterol and prevent stroke. Pomegranate juice has also been shown to be able to reduce plaque in atherosclerosis (a condition in which an artery is hardened by a buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances).
Pomegranate juice may also help to treat osteoarthritis, which is a painful joint condition caused by worn-down cartilage. Some antioxidants in pomegranate juice, called flavonols, can reduce the inflammation on the cartilage, thereby reducing the symptoms.
Meanwhile, cranberry juice’s phytochemicals are effective for reducing cholesterol. By reducing the cholesterol levels in your blood, you can prevent various cardiovascular diseases. Hence, cranberry juice is also a good choice for maintaining your cardiovascular health.
For a long time, cranberry juice has been believed to be an effective treatment for urinary tract infection (UTI). This is true. However, a recent study has shown that pomegranate juice can give the same benefit, as reported by Livestrong.
Both pomegranate juice and cranberry juice have high amounts of antioxidants. The antioxidants in the juice are able to prevent bacteria from sticking to the walls of the bladder. As the effect, the risk of further infection can be reduced.
Pomegranate Juice vs Cranberry Juice
| Pomegranate Juice | Cranberry Juice |
|---|---|
| - Higher antioxidants | - Slightly lower antioxidants |
| - Higher vitamin K, thiamin, niacin, pantothenic acid, folate | - Higher vitamin C, vitamin E, vitamin B6 |
| - Prevents cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritis, UTI | - Lowers cholesterol and prevents UTI |
Conclusion
Both juices here are healthy. However, in general, pomegranate juice is better. It contains higher amounts of antioxidants while having similar vitamins and minerals. As the effect, it can give more significant health benefits. It can reduce the risks of cardiovascular diseases, osteoarthritis, and urinary tract infection.