by Veronica Shine

Created on: February 11, 2009   Last Updated: February 16, 2009

Known as "Granada" in Spanish, "Grenade" in French and now considered a top contender as a super-food in America, is none other than the pomegranate.

Steep in history and legend dating back to its native origin in ancient Persia, the fruit was used for medicinal purposes and looked upon in awe. Even today the Iranians will argue that it was the pomegranate that Eve bit into rather than the apple. During Greek weddings, it is a tradition to break a pomegranate as a symbol of fertility. The seed is encrusted in sugar in China and eaten on the wedding day to bless newlyweds for a healthy family.

The pomegranate was cultivated throughout the Mediterranean region after its discovery but before premiering in a starring role as a Californian specialty. It was brought to the drier parts of California and Arizona by the Spanish in 1769.

This fruit is packed full of more goodness in a serving than other more common types of fruit. It can protect the body due to it overflowing with potassium and vitamins A, C, E and iron. Pomegranate is extraordinary, as it contains three times the antioxidants as compared to wine or green tea. It is low in calories and sodium too.

Antioxidants are known to promote a healthy heart and good blood circulation. Cholesterol begins in a process by the free radicals inside your body known as oxidation. Oxidation will speed up the hardening of the arteries but this is reduced by indulging with regular consumption of the antioxidant properties in pomegranates.
Tests are being monitored to determine the early promising benefits for fighting existing cancer cells in the body and in Alzheimer's with the use of pomegranate.

Besides being tasty and sweet; pomegranates are being added to recipes by world renowned chefs. You should also, especially now that you know what this fruit can do for you and your family. Make it a part of your regular shopping must have while it is in season. The range is endless with what you can add the pomegranate to with your everyday meals.

The following are a few examples to the diversity of pomegranate:

- Appetizers
Stuffed Chilies
Spinach Dip
Guacamole

- Salads
Cucumber Salad
Chicken Salad with Almonds

- Entree
Roasted Salmon
Marinated Rack of Lamb
Balsamic Chicken

- Desserts
Cheesecake with Pomegranate Topping
Flan with Pomegranate Syrup
Pomegranate Baked Pears

Fresh pomegranate can be found in markets from September to January. Look for one that has a deeply colored reddish purple skin and will be heavy for its size.

In the meantime, during the off season, purchase pomegranate juice so you will never miss out on the advantages. Its popularity will only increase more each year due to its new found health benefits. Add a little exercise and other healthy eating and you have a recipe that is sure to make you fit, healthy and full of vitality.

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