by Callie Noy

Created on: November 23, 2009   Last Updated: April 10, 2011

Progress in nutrition is taking leaps and bounds. Strangely enough, this means taking a step back in time and analyzing the 'superfoods' from throughout history. One of these is Pomegranate. Originating in Persia, the healing properties of pomegranate rapidly made its way to China, Europe, Britain and America.  In fact the history of the pomegranate is well recorded documented in both ancient lore and modern cultural symbolism, adding to its significance throughtout history to many cultures.   Ancient Egyptians were buried with pomegranate. The Koran encourages plentiful consumption of the fruit.   In Greek histroy, Persephone was tempted to break her fasting while captured by Hades only by the pomegranate.  The Jewish faith believes pomegranate signify fertiltiy and eternal life. 

This fruit is one of the highest foods that store antioxidants, an important ingredient in any modern diet.  Antioxidants help destroy free radicals that you can accumulate in everyday life. Exhaust fumes, stress, and preservatives all break down your health. The antioxidants found in pomegranate assist in healing your body of these free radicals and are a major ingredient in many natural medicines.  Many doctors are turning to natural therapies to assist in prevention and cure of common modern illness.   Just as fibre in your diet was in the past, now pomegranate/antioxidants are the foodstuff to improve your life.  Visit any health foodstore and you will see pomegranate and other antioxidant foods available.  So next time, don't pass by that pomegranate juice. Give it a try; it may be just what you need!

There are many recipes that include pomegranate or its juice.  Homemade 'Grenadine' is made by simply boiling the inside from the pomegranate until the seed sacks release their juice, then disgard the seeds.  Due to the citrusy flavour of pomegranate juice, homemade grenadine makes a delightfully refreshing drink. 

One of the best websites to visit for information on great breakthroughs in nutrition is www.beneficialsupplement.usana.com.

(1) http://homecooking.about.com/od/foodhistory/a/pomehi story.htm

(2) http://homecooking.about.com/od/cookingwithalcohol/r /blalcohol5.htm

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