The health benefits of pomegrante -oasis advanced wellness

The Health Benefits of Pomegranate
If you are looking for a delicious, healthful food to bring some variety into your diet, a fruit called pomegranate may just fill the bill. My grandmother had a pomegranate tree in her backyard and it was a delight for us children to pick some of the fruit, retire to the shade, and eat the sweet but tangy seeds. It has gained quite a bit of status in the natural circles recently, but its popularity goes back much further than that. The pomegranate has a rich history that includes many references in ancient mythological, religious, and cultural writings. The Jewish people, and later Christians, highly regarded its fruit and considered it a symbol of righteousness. Still today, it is eaten by some Jews on Rosh-Hashanah as part of a ritual to celebrate fruitfulness. It has appeared in Judeo-Christian art, is mentioned in the Old Testament of the Bible, and a legend is believed by some that the pomegranate was the "forbidden fruit" eaten by Adam and Eve in the garden of Eden.


It is believed the pomegranate was originally native to the Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions, but it now grows wild throughout India as well. It is also a popular cultivated crop in Southern Europe and California.

How Can Pomegranates Improve My Health?

Legends and mythology aside, this fruit has been rediscovered in the last few years, and its popularity is now increasing due to clinical studies that have scientifically verified the benefits of the pomegranate and identified some of its healthful components. Israeli food scientists have been particularly active in studying the characteristics and benefits of this fruit. The ancients instinctively knew that the pomegranate was nutritious, and now the modern logical minds of the western world are being convinced too.

The pomegranate fruit, seeds, and juice are a bountiful source of natural goodness. This exotic fruit is very rich in a variety of antioxidants, and in fact is higher in some antioxidants than green tea, red wine, orange juice, or cranberry juice. Pomegranate is a significant source of beta-carotene, polyphenols, tannins, and other bioactive substances that boost the immune system, counteract free radicals, reduce inflammation, bolster the cardiovascular system, and battle cancer. Pomegranate is also high in vitamins A, C, E, and folic acid.


Some of the major benefits of pomegranate include:

Cardiac health: Due to its many antioxidants, pomegranate has been proven in studies to reduce LDL ("bad" cholesterol), and increase HDL ("good" cholesterol). It also acts as a blood-thinner, and thus can reduce risk for heart attacks, strokes, and blood clots. One study also indicated an increase in oxygen to the heart muscle for cardiac patients who drank 8 ounces of pomegranate juice daily for a three-month period.

Cancer: Researchers are excited about the results of studies that indicate pomegranate's cancer-fighting properties. Specifically, prostate and breast tumors have been shrunk after using compounds in pomegranate, and it is likely that regular consumption of this fruit can prevent cancers such as these and others.

Joint health: Pomegranate is an excellent anti-inflammatory agent as well. Because of this quality, it is very helpful for many individuals who suffer from arthritis and other inflammatory conditions. Scientists have found that certain properties of pomegranates counteract enzymes that break down cartilage and contribute to arthritis.

Anti-bacterial: Pomegranate is also reported to have compounds that fight off bacteria and viruses. These can help to prevent and defeat the common cold, and other respiratory conditions.


Different Ways to Serve Pomegranate

The taste of pomegranate has been described as a rich, unique blend of sweet and sour. The fruit itself is fleshy and very juicy, and can be fun and very challenging to eat. Many people also enjoy the seeds as a sweet snack. Other ways to use pomegranate include:

* The fruit and/or seeds in a salad.
* In smoothies.
* In pancakes, muffins, and other whole-grain baked goods.
* It can be made into a relish or salsa for dipping veggies.
* Pomegranate can also be made into a syrup, typically mixed with honey or another organic sweetener. This is an excellent topping for pancakes or waffles, or as an alternative way to sweeten a variety of dishes.

As with all foods, remember to choose organic pomegranates if at all possible. There are many different ways to enjoy pomegranate, and a slew of health benefits to reap. Enjoy experimenting with this delightful gift from our Creator.

Labels: Natural Health and Well Being

posted by Dr. Lanphier at 6:00 AM