Calories in a Pomegranate: Full Nutrition Breakdown

Pomegranates are one of the most antioxidant-rich fruits in the world. Their jewel-like arils (seeds) are packed with punicalagins and punicic acid — compounds linked to reduced inflammation, lower blood pressure, and improved heart health. While a whole pomegranate has more calories than many fruits, the arils are typically eaten by the half-cup.

Calories by serving size:

Pomegranates are also rich in vitamin K, folate, and potassium. The antioxidant activity of pomegranate juice has been measured at three times higher than that of red wine or green tea.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How many calories are in a cup of pomegranate arils?

One cup of pomegranate arils (about 174 grams) contains approximately 144 calories. This serving provides 33 grams of carbohydrates, 27 grams of natural sugar, 7 grams of fiber, and 20% of your daily vitamin C. Most people eat half a cup or less per sitting.

Are pomegranates good for your heart?

Pomegranates are one of the most heart-healthy fruits. Studies show that pomegranate juice consumption can lower systolic blood pressure, reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol oxidation, and improve arterial function. The punicalagins in pomegranates are exceptionally potent antioxidants that protect blood vessel walls from damage.

Is pomegranate juice as healthy as the whole fruit?

Pomegranate juice retains many of the antioxidants from the fruit but loses most of the fiber. One cup of juice has about 134 calories and 31 grams of sugar with virtually no fiber, while one cup of arils has 144 calories, 27 grams of sugar, and 7 grams of fiber. The fiber in whole arils helps slow sugar absorption. For maximum benefit, eat the arils rather than drinking juice.

How do you eat a pomegranate?

Cut the pomegranate in half horizontally, hold each half cut-side down over a bowl, and tap the back firmly with a wooden spoon. The arils will fall out. Alternatively, score the skin into quarters, submerge in a bowl of water, and pull apart — the arils sink while the white pith floats. Eat the arils whole, including the small seed inside.

Are pomegranate seeds safe to eat?

Yes, pomegranate seeds (the crunchy part inside each aril) are completely safe to eat and provide additional fiber. The seeds contain punicic acid, a type of conjugated linolenic acid with antioxidant properties. Eating the whole aril — juice sac and seed together — is the best way to get the full nutritional benefit of the fruit.