by Kathleen Lynn

Created on: February 11, 2009   Last Updated: March 04, 2009

Pomegranate is not quite a new trend, there are several references in the bible and other older texts of consuming this fruit. One of the first uses of this fruit as a drink was quoted in the Song of Solomons when he offered the object of his desire, spiced wine from the juice of pomegranates. Today, research has focused upon the antioxidant content of pomegranates and what this can do for your health.

One of the health benefits of pomegranate is that it can improve the overall health of your heart. Pomegranate has proved in recent studies and research to reduce plaque and buildup on the arteries, which will prevent heart attacks. For those that suffer from coronary artery disease, pomegranate may be more effective than some placebo's at improving your body's blood flow. Red wine has been touted as beneficial to heart patients in moderation, now there is a non alcohol alternative that actually could contain up to three times the health benefits of the red wine.

Some cancer patients may find a benefit to the pomegranate due to the antioxidants that are contained in this delicious treat. Pomegranates contain flavenoids, a special type of antioxidant that help neutralize free radical cells that cause cancer. The cancers most affected by this fruit are breast, skin, and prostate cancers. In no way does this constitute as a cure for cancer, or that everyone will notice the differences of this fruit, research is still changing. But it can't hurt anything to consume some of this fruit, especially if you have been through cancer treatments in the past.

Pomegranate is an excellent juice to drink if you are pregnant. Especially those pregnancies at risk for premature delivery. Pomegranate has shown to reduce the babies chance of brain injuries from low blood flow and oxygen. Other possible benefits are being researched. The pomegranate may increase fertility, help with erectile dysfunction, blood pressure, osteoarthritis, weight loss, and give the skin a healthier glow.

Wondering how to incorporate the pomegranate into your daily eating habits? The easiest way is to treat it the same as an apple, orange, or other fruit you normally eat. Cut it in half, scoop out the seeds and pink fleshy part of the fruit. Eat the seeds and fleshy pink part of the pomegranate. Sprinkle some seeds of this fruit over your salad. This makes a sweet and delicious salad topping.

Pomegranate juice is very popular and other drink manufacturers, such as bottled water companies, are starting to add this fruit to the flavor selections. Grenadine used to be made from pomegranate juice though is now more often made with food coloring. Which means, juice from this fruit is an excellent mixer for drinks. Children can benefit from a splash of pomegranate juice in their orange juice. Adults can use pomegranate juice to splash a martini or cocktail. Pomegranate juice can be drank as it is, but if you find that too sweet, dilute with a bit of water and drink. This is very popular in the Middle East.

Pomegranate can be used in cooking as a glaze. Try a pomegranate glaze over your next cheesecake. Roast a chicken using a pomegranate glaze. Marinades can be made using the fruit and its juices to enhance the flavor of your meats. Add bits of pomegranate fruit to muffins or pancakes for a tasty treat.

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