Health Benefits of Pomegranate

Pomegranates (Punica granatum) with delicious, red, juicy seeds (arils) are one of the most popular fruits around the world. Apart from its lovely, juicy tart flavor, this fruit is also known for its countless health benefits. In fact, pomegranates are believed to be one of the earliest fruits that have been cultivated along with grapes, figs, olives, and dates.

Pomegranates were associated with fertility, rebirth, and health since time immemorial. Some of the most potent health benefits include boosting the body's natural defense against Alzheimer's disease, various cancers, coronary and heart diseases, and arthritis. So what is it that makes pomegranate a wonder fruit?

Containing three times the antioxidants of red wine or green tea, pomegranates have a considerable abundance of tannins in it. These tannins aid in the reduction of free radicals in the body. Thus, the harm caused by free radicals, in terms of speeding up the aging process, damaging the DNA, and resulting in the formation of cancers is prevented considerably by the antioxidants present in the pomegranates.

Pomegranates are known to alleviate medical heart problems namely heart attacks, blood pressure, and even strokes. Research has shown that having a glass of fresh pomegranate juice per day could improve blood flow to the heart by more than a third.

This is because the antioxidants in the fruit help to clear the arteries and prevent the formation of bad cholesterol in the heart. This has a dramatic impact on atherosclerotic lesions, which narrow the arteries and cause heart failure.

The presence of antioxidants in pomegranates helps reduce the oxidation of bad cholesterol and raise the HDL or good cholesterol levels in the body. In addition, pomegranate juice is known to keep blood platelets from clumping together and thus restricts the formation of unwanted blood clots.

The presence of antioxidant flavonoids in pomegranates are effective in neutralizing cancer-causing free radicals. The health benefits of pomegranate juice in retarding the growth of prostate cancer cells has been documented. In fact, research has shown that regular consumption of pomegranates is quite effective in fighting both breast and skin cancer. One of the most potent health benefit of this fruit for men is the protection against prostate cancer.

Pomegranates are believed to be a rich source of vitamin C. It supplies the body with a rich source of folic acid and vitamins A, B5, and E. In addition, pomegranates also contain fiber, potassium, niacin, and iron. The iron helps in preventing anemia symptoms that include exhaustion, dizziness, weakness, and hearing loss.

Other disease-related health benefits include:

• Prevention of Alzheimer's disease
• Soothing skin inflammation and maintaining a clear skin with youthful glow
• Reduces the chances of neonatal brain from damage and injury

• Prevention of dental plaque
• Eradicates intestinal worms in children
• Presence of ascorbic acid prevents respiratory problems
• Cartilage deterioration and osteoarthritis can be prevented

While you can easily consume fresh seeds and juice to enjoy the health benefits of this wonder fruit, you can also enjoy the flavor and taste of pomegranates with a number of products.

From the wonderful grenadine syrup to pomegranate juice concentrates, bottled pomegranate juices, frozen pomegranate seeds, dried pomegranate seeds, pomegranate extracts, and pomegranate supplements, there are countless choices that can help you avail the health benefits of this "superfruit".