The whole fruit , though delicious, is less familiar to most people than juices and supplements. But in any form, pomegranate offers a multitude of health benefits.
In Fruits and vegetables, richness of color stems from a concentration of nutrients. Given their vibrant ruby red hue, pomegranates, not surprisingly are especially high in health-promoting antioxidants.
Studies on Pomegranate:
Studies have focused on juice and extracts. Benefits include lowering "bad" LDL cholesterol,
increasing blood flow to the heart among people with heart disease, protecting against prostate and breast cancers, improving erectile dysfunction, enhancing recovery from exercises, protecting against heart disease and diabetes, and increasing resistance to the flu. Newer research shows that pomegranate can help alleviate common symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes. Pomegranate is a natural source of phytoestrogens, known to help promote hormonal health. When applied topically to the skin, pomegranate reduces damage from the sun. In mouthwashes, it reduces plaque and protects against gum disease. And for overall health, antioxidants protect against environmental damage and the ravages of aging.
In studies, a therapeutic amount is most often 8 ounces of juice daily or the equivalent in an extract, taken for at least a few months. Health improvements generally result from making pomegranate a routine part of one's daily diet.
These are some research Highlights:
Research in Israel found that the natural sugar in pomegranate does not act like sugar in other fruit juices, which raise blood sugar. In a study of 20 diabetics, published in atherosclerosis, pomegranate did not raise blood sugar but reduced the development of arartherosclerosis.
In most juices, sugars are present in free and harmful forms said lead researcher Michael Aviram, Phd. In pomegranate juice however the sugars are attached to unique antioxidants, which actually make these sugars protective against atherosclerosis.
CANCER-Fighting Compounds:
At the University of California, Los Angles, a study of 50 men who had been treated for prostate cancer found that pomegranate juice (8 ounces daily of POM Wonderful) quadrupled the length of time during which there was little or no cancer progression. In men 65 to 70 who have been treated for prostate cancer, we can give them pomegranate juice and it may be possible for them to outlive their risk of dying from their cancer, said lead research Allan Pantuck, PhD .We're hoping we may be able to prevent or delay the need for other therapies usually used in this population, such as hormone treatment or chemotherapy, both of which bring with them harmful side effects.
Pomegranate Recipes:
The pomegranate's bright red seeds, or arils, are little juice sacs with crunchy inner seeds that are rich in fiber. Eat them as a snack, sprinkle on fish or game meats or fold into rice or other grain dishes. These are some other ways to enjoy the fruit.
• Make a quick salad dressing. Blend pomegranate seeds or juice with balsamic or rice vinegar and extra virgin olive oil; add honey to taste. If using seeds, strain before serving.
• Add pomegranate juice to smoothies for an antioxidant boost..
• Liven up guacamole: Mix one or two tablespoons of pomegranate seeds for added visual appeal and taste.
• Brighten up a salad: Sprinkle pomegranate seeds onto green or fruit salad after tossing.
• Add a burst of flavor to plain yogurt: Mix a little honey into yogurt, and then fold in pomegranate seeds for a sweet-tart combination.
• Sprinkle pomegranate seeds on cereal, pancakes, waffles, pudding, ice cream or other desserts. Or decorate a cake with the ruby jewels
• Enjoy a ruby-red glass of pomegranate juice in a place of wine, for party get together or special or festive occasions.
Questions? Email or Call Dr Phillip Dietrich @ 650 291-0709 or 800 422-9660
Email: drpjd@earthlink.net
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