by MJ Logan

Created on: February 14, 2009   Last Updated: February 16, 2009

The life fruit of the ancient world, the pomegranate originated in India. The edible portions are the fleshy arils; the pulpy and juicy flesh surrounding the seeds. In recent years, the healthy effects of the antioxidants in pomegranates have made the news in big ways. Antioxidants sweep the body of free radicals, the DNA damaging oxidants that cause heart disease, cancer and other health problems.

Heart Health

In studies, daily consumption of pomegranate juice prevented or reduced thickening of the arteries and cut LDL cholesterol oxidation in half. LDL oxidation is the main culprit of clogged arteries. As little as three ounces of pomegranate juice daily actually increased the flow of blood to the heart and improved circulation in other parts of the body as well.

Cancer Prevention and More

Studies indicate the antioxidants in pomegranates are strong chemo-preventatives. Pomegranate seed oils aid in the destruction of breast cancer cells. A University of Wisconsin study indicates that when pretreated with pomegranate extract, mice had a 70 percent lower incidence of skin tumors as opposed to the control group. The antioxidants of the pomegranate even fight lung cancer, causing lung cancer cells to literally explode.

For men, pomegranate extract and juice show a number of healthful benefits. The antioxidants from pomegranates reduce and slow the growth of prostate cancer cells. Since it helps to increase blood flow to various parts of the body, it may reduce the effects of erectile dysfunction in men.

Another study indicates that pomegranates may even benefit those with diabetes. Pomegranate flower extracts may benefit those with diabetes by acting as an insulin optimizer. After using the flower extracts for only a month, those with mild to moderate insulin intolerance showed improved glucose metabolism, an essential indicator in determining insulin resistance.

Adding Pomegranate to a Healthy Lifestyle

With all the benefits, just how does the average person incorporate pomegranate into their diet?

Purchase pomegranate juice at most grocery stores and some chain discount stores. Drinking eight ounces a day provides the antioxidants you need to fight cancer, heart disease and possibly more. Read labels carefully and pass over those that list corn syrup or fruit juice as the first ingredient. Good pomegranate juice leans toward the expensive side.

Add the pomegranate aril to salsas, salads, and fruit dishes. Any salsa recipe will benefit from the tart and sweet aril. Try substituting the arils for grapes in a Waldorf salad. In addition to blueberries, blackberries and strawberries, the arils from several pomegranates will make your usual summer fruit salad pop.

Recipes for braised lamb shanks, ham glazes, pomegranate meatballs, and meatloaf and pork dishes only name a few ways to use the pomegranate.

The pomegranate is as healthful as it is tasty and useful and adding it to your diet may reduce your risk of heart disease, cancer or diabetes. Tart and sweet, the pomegranate adds a new dimension to cooking and diet. What better way to enjoy improving your health?

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