Does pomegranate cause gas?

Pomegranates are a nutritious fruit that have been enjoyed for centuries. However, some people report experiencing digestive issues like gas and bloating after eating pomegranates. In this article, we’ll take a look at whether pomegranates really cause gas and examine some of the potential causes.

What is pomegranate?

The pomegranate (Punica granatum) is a fruit-bearing deciduous shrub or small tree native to modern-day Iran and cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region, Asia, and California. The name “pomegranate” comes from Latin pomum (‘apple’) and granatus (‘seeded’).

Pomegranates have been used for medicinal purposes since ancient times. In fact, they are even mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible. Today, pomegranates remain popular around the world, valued for their sweet-tart taste, vibrant red color, and nutritional benefits.

Nutritional profile of pomegranates

Pomegranates are packed with vitamins, minerals, and potent plant compounds that are responsible for most of their health benefits. Here is an overview of the nutrients found in one cup (174 grams) of pomegranate seeds:

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	144
Total fat	1.2 grams
Protein	3.4 grams
Carbs	30.2 grams
Fiber	7.6 grams
Vitamin C	58% of the Daily Value (DV)
Vitamin K	36% of the DV
Folate	16% of the DV
Potassium	12% of the DV

Pomegranates also contain powerful antioxidants called polyphenols, including punicalagins and anthocyanins, which give pomegranates their vibrant color. Research suggests that antioxidants are protective against chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.

Do pomegranates commonly cause gas?

Some people do report increased gas or bloating after eating pomegranates. However, it does not appear to be a universal reaction or an issue for most people who enjoy this fruit.

In one small study, 22 healthy volunteers ate a single pomegranate. Only 27% reported any adverse effects, the most common being diarrhea and gas. Many people tolerated pomegranates without any problems.

There are also plenty of online anecdotes from people who say pomegranates give them gas or make them feel bloated and uncomfortable. However, these reports are understandably biased, as people are much more likely to post about negative experiences than non-events.

Overall, while pomegranates may cause gas for some, it does not appear to be a common reaction experienced by most people who eat them.

Why might pomegranates cause gas and bloating in some people?

There are a few potential reasons why pomegranates may lead to gas or bloating for certain individuals:

• Fiber content: Pomegranates contain significant amounts of fiber per serving, around 7-8 grams. Fiber is healthy and important for digestive health. However, suddenly increasing your fiber intake can lead to gas and bloating as your body adjusts.
• FODMAPs: Pomegranates contain some FODMAPs (types of carbs that can cause digestive issues in sensitive people), specifically fructose and sorbitol. People with IBS may experience gas and bloating from these FODMAPs.
• Individual sensitivity: Some people may have a personal sensitivity to compounds found in pomegranates. This can cause negative digestive symptoms when they eat them.
• Allergies: Though rare, it’s possible to have an allergy to pomegranates. Gas or bloating could be signs of a mild allergic response.

So in some cases, the digestive effects of pomegranates are related to their fiber, carbohydrate, or antioxidant content. For other people, it may come down to an individual sensitivity or allergy.

Tips to prevent gas from pomegranates

Here are some tips to help prevent gas and bloating if you experience this after eating pomegranates:

• Start slow: Introduce pomegranates into your diet gradually instead of eating large amounts at once. This allows your body to adjust to their fiber and FODMAP content.
• Take a supplement: Consider taking a digestive enzyme supplement when eating pomegranates to help break down compounds that may cause gas.
• Limit portion size: Stick to a smaller portion such as 1⁄2 cup of pomegranate seeds instead of eating the whole fruit.
• Avoid on an empty stomach: Make sure to eat pomegranates with a meal instead of on an empty stomach or as a snack.
• Reduce other gas-causing foods: Limit high-fiber foods, beans, carbonated beverages, and artificial sweeteners on days you eat pomegranates.
• Take a probiotic: Taking a probiotic supplement may help improve digestion and reduce gas related to pomegranates.

Testing different preparation methods, such as juicing or blending the seeds, may also help for some people. If pomegranate-related gas persists despite these tips, speaking with a registered dietitian or doctor may be beneficial.

Health benefits of pomegranates

Pomegranates have many evidence-based health benefits that may outweigh potential side effects like gas for some people. Here is a look at some of their key benefits:

• Rich in antioxidants: Pomegranates contain higher levels of antioxidants compared to other fruits. These powerful plant compounds fight inflammation and protect cells from damage.
• May improve heart health: Studies suggest compounds in pomegranates help reduce blood pressure, increase HDL (good) cholesterol, and lower risks of atherosclerosis.
• Could lower diabetes risk: Some research shows pomegranate extract may reduce insulin resistance and lower blood sugar levels.
• Benefits for arthritis: The anti-inflammatory effects of pomegranates may help improve symptoms in people with osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
• May combat cancer: Lab studies indicate pomegranate extracts could slow cancer cell reproduction and even induce apoptosis (cell death) in some cancer cells.

The research on pomegranates continues to emerge. Early evidence indicates they are definitely a healthy addition to the diet for most people.

Should you avoid pomegranates if they give you gas?

Pomegranates are extremely healthy, packed with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and disease-fighting antioxidants. This makes them a beneficial part of most diets.

However, if eating them consistently causes significant gas, bloating, diarrhea or other digestive discomfort, it may be best to avoid them, at least in whole form.

You can try incorporating small amounts of pomegranate juice or seeds into your diet instead of eating entire pomegranates. Taking digestive enzymes, probiotics, or products like Beano may also be helpful.

As a last resort, eliminating pomegranates completely from your diet is unlikely to cause any major nutritional deficiencies. There are plenty of other fruits and veggies that provide similar benefits.

Speak with your doctor if you have severe or persistent digestive issues after eating pomegranates to rule out potential allergies or intolerances.

The bottom line

Pomegranates are packed with nutrients and provide many health benefits. However, their fiber, fructose, and sorbitol content may cause gas, bloating, or diarrhea in some people.

Eating them in moderation, taking digestive aids, and limiting other gas-producing foods can help minimize unwanted side effects.

While pomegranates may need to be avoided altogether by those with chronic digestive issues or allergies, they can be safely enjoyed in moderation by most healthy adults.