Pomegranates And Breast Cancer

Phytochemicals in Pomegranates Stop Growth of Breast Cancer Tumors in Study

 Eating pomegranates or drinking pomegranate juice may help prevent and slow the growth of some types of breast cancer.

A new study shows a group of phytochemicals called ellagitannins found in abundance in pomegranates inhibited the growth of estrogen-responsive breast cancer in laboratory tests.

“Phytochemicals suppress estrogen production that prevents the proliferation of breast cancer cells and the growth of estrogen-responsive tumors,” researcher Shiuan Chen, PhD, director of the Division of Tumor Cell Biology and co-leader of the Breast Cancer Research Program at City of Hope in Duarte, Calif., says in a news release.

Researchers say the ellagitannins in pomegranates work by inhibiting aromatase, which is a key enzyme used by the body to make estrogen and plays a key role in breast cancer growth.

“We were surprised by our findings,” Chen says. “We previously found other fruits, such as grapes, to be capable of the inhibition of aromatase. But phytochemicals in pomegranates and in grapes are different.”

Researchers say pomegranates have recently been hailed for their potential anti-cancer and heart healthy benefits thanks to their high antioxidant content. But they say this is the first study to look at their effects on aromatase and breast cancer growth.

In the study, published in Cancer Prevention Research, researchers examined the impact of 10 ellagitannin-derived compounds from pomegranates on aromatase activity and breast cancer cell growth in laboratory tests.

The results showed that of those 10 compounds, urolithin B most significantly inhibited breast cancer cell growth.

Experts say further studies will be needed to determine whether eating or drinking pomegranate-derived products will have the same effect in humans, but these results are promising.

“More research on the individual components and the combination of chemicals is needed to understand the potential risks and benefits of using pomegranate juice or isolated compounds for a health benefit or for cancer prevention,” Powel Brown, MD, PhD, chairman of the clinical cancer prevention department at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, says in a news release. Brown was not associated with the study.

Until then, researchers say people may consider eating more pomegranates to protect against cancer in the breast and perhaps other tissues and organs.

Pomegranate Care

Pomegranate Care

Pomegranates are easy to grow. They do not need much water or fertilizer. Pomegranates are naturally adapted to regions with cool winters and hot summers, perfect for California gardens! Pomegranates can be kept to 6' tall with regular pruning in mid-summer. Fruit can be stored in cool, dry place for up to 3 months. Fruit is eaten fresh, used in salads, salsas and preserves. They are high in antioxidants and vitamin C.

Planting
Plant pomegranates in the warmest and sunniest spot available. With full sun exposure, more fruit will be produced, but trees will also tolerate part shade. Well drained garden soil is preferable, but pomegranate trees will also thrive in gravel, acidic loam or calcareous soils. 

Watering
New plantings need sufficient water to thrive and get established. Thereafter established pomegranates only need watering about once every 2-3 weeks during the dry season. Soils with ample organic matter have better water holding capacity.

Pruning 
Pomegranates can be pruned as a shrub or a tree. For tree shape,
when it reaches 2 feet tall the young tree should be cut back to the point where only 4 or 5 shoots are allowed to develop, taking care to maintain a balanced form. Remove suckers and unwanted shoots as they appear. If selected branches are about a foot from the ground the resulting tree will have a short and well defined trunk. Fruits are produced on new growth tips. If trees' branches are cut back annually for the first three years, selected branches will grow many side shoots, thus producing a tree with maximum fruit productivity and appealing form. After initial pruning and shaping in the first three years, only occasional suckering and dead branch removal will be necessary.

Fertilizing
Pomegranates benefit from rich fertile soils, especially during the first three seasons of growth and establishment. In the West, pomegranate groves typically receive nitrogen based fertilizer applications in spring, the first two seasons of establishment. Thereafter an annual application of compost or well rotted manure is helpful.

Health Benefits of Pomegranate Juice

Health Benefits of Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate has been used for medicinal purposes in the middle and Far East regions for over thousands of years. It was used as a tonic to heal ailments like ulcers and diarrhea. The juice of pomegranate contains antioxidants like anthocyanin and ellagic acid, compounds like gallic acids, and flavonoids like quercetin which offer protection from diabetes, heart diseases, osteoarthritis and several kinds of cancer.

1. Heart Benefits:

Pomegranate juice can have a great impact on health, particularly on the health of the heart, by keeping the arteries flexible and decreasing the inflammation in the lining of the blood vessels. It is known to reduce atherosclerosis, which is one of the leading causes of heart disease. It lowers the risk of blockage in the arteries which can cause a restriction in the flow of blood to the heart and brain. In other words it has an anti-atherogenic effect on the heart (1).  It lowers the amount of LDL or bad cholesterol that is retained in the body and increases the amount of good cholesterol or HDL .

2. Maintains Blood Sugar Levels:

Although pomegranate juice contains fructose, it does not elevate the blood sugar levels as other fruit juices do. Studies have shown that there was no significant increase in the blood sugar level of diabetic patients who drank this juice daily for a period of 2 weeks.

3. Maintains Blood Pressure:

Pomegranates are also known to reduce high blood pressure. The juice reduces lesions and the inflammation of blood vessels in heart patients. It is a natural aspirin, which keeps the blood from coagulating and forming blood clots. It even acts as a blood thinner allowing for an unrestricted flow of blood through the body.

4. Protection From Cancer:

Pomegranate juice eliminates free radicals from the body and inhibits the growth and development of cancer and other diseases. Its high contents of anti- oxidants stimulate the white blood cells to neutralize toxins in the body thereby promoting a strong and healthy immune system. Pomegranate is believed to induce apoptosis, a process where the cells destroy themselves. Daily intake of a glass of pomegranate juice can slow down the growth of cancerous cells in prostate cancer. Moreover it appears to block aromatase, an enzyme that converts androgen to estrogen, a hormone which plays a crucial role in the development of breast cancer .

5. Soothes the Stomach:

Pomegranate juice is used in the treatment of diarrhoea and dysentery as it plays a vital role in the secretion of enzymes which aids proper digestion. Mixing 1 teaspoon of honey in a glass of pomegranate juice is sure to cure indigestion problems.

6. Boosts Immunity:

Pomegranate juice has strong anti-bacterial and anti-microbial properties which help fight viruses and bacteria and boost our immunity system . It significantly reduces microbes that are found in the mouth commonly responsible for cavities and staph infections. Its anti-microbial properties make it an inhibitor of HIV transmission. Out of all the fruits, pomegranate has the highest potential to inhibit the transmission of HIV.

7. Prevents Anaemia:

Anaemia is a condition caused by the deficiency of red blood cells in the body. Since pomegranate juice contains ample amount of iron it helps in surmounting the red blood cell deficiency in the body . Mixing some candied sugar in pomegranate juice and introducing a couple of drops in the nostrils is a quick fix to control nose bleeds. It is an excellent remedy for red or sore eyes and falling eye lashes.

8. Improves Digestion:

Pomegranate juice aids in the smooth functioning of the stomach, heart and liver. This juice induces hunger and can even control thirst. Therefore it is a great choice of drink during summers. It also soothes urinary tract infection and eases the flow of urine. The high amount of dietary fiber, both soluble and insoluble in pomegranate juice helps to improve digestion and regulate bowel movement. Since it has no saturated fats or cholesterol, it is highly recommended for those aiming to lose weight.

9. Helps in Cartilage Regeneration:

Pomegranate juice acts as an inhibiter on enzymes that are responsible for damaging the cartilage. It is therefore highly recommended for patients suffering from osteoarthritis, a chronic condition characterized by the breakdown of the joint’s cartilage. Studies conducted have proved the application of this juice to reduce deterioration of the cartilage. Unsweetened pomegranate juice relieves symptoms of arthritis and bone inflammation . A regular intake of this juice may curb the onset of neurological problems like Alzheimer disease. It is also known to dissolve kidney stones and cures erectile dysfunction in men.

10. Good for Prenatal Care:

Pomegranate juice is extremely beneficial for pregnant women. It is a great source of a number of vitamins and minerals including folic acid which is a crucial element of a pre natal diet. The anti-inflammatory property of pomegranate juice ensures a healthy blood flow, which is essential for the overall development of the foetus . The potassium content in this juice can also help prevent leg cramps that are generally associated with pregnancy. When consumed regularly by expectant mothers, it is known to lower the risk of premature child birth or birth of babies with low birth weight.

Skin Benefits of Pomegranate Juice:

Pomegranate juice, can be a secret potion to get a healthy, vibrant and youthful skin.

11. Anti-Aging Benefits:

A diet high in pomegranate juice can help to slow down the process of ageing by reducing wrinkles and fine lines caused by constant exposure to sun (13). It also helps to sustain the regeneration of the skin cells and prevents hyper pigmentation and occurrence of dark spots.

12. Suited for All Skin Types:

Pomegranate juice works wonders for dry skin (14). Its small molecular structure penetrates deeply into the skin to provide ample moisturisation and hydration to the skin. Thus it soothes dry and irritated skin. Its content of punicic acid, an omega 3 fatty acid keeps the skin constantly hydrated by sealing in the moisture. Pomegranate juice is beneficial for oily and pimple prone skin too. Application of pomegranate juice on oily skin prevents the outbreak of pimples and controls the production of sebum.

13. Helps to Heal Scars:

Pomegranate helps in the regeneration of cells in the epidermal and dermal layers of the skin. It has an ability to hasten the process of healing of wounds. Even the oil of pomegranate seeds is loaded with skin friendly nutrients which are beneficial for the strengthening and regeneration of the epidermis. It also protects the skin from sun burns and heals the damage caused to the skin due to constant exposure to the sun (15).

14. Improves the Texture of Skin:

Pomegranates are also known to extend the life of fibroblasts which are responsible for the production of collagen and elastin that tighten the skin and prevent the formation of fine lines and wrinkles. Collagen and elastin provide strength and support to the skin . When the fibers of collagen and elastin break down, the skin develops laxity which causes wrinkles and jowls. Pomegranate is also very useful for lightening the skin tone. Drinking a glass of pomegranate juice daily gives a fair and glowing skin tone.

15. Pomegranate Face Mask for Glowing Skin:

Mix 1 teaspoon each of powdered green papaya, grape seed oil, and grape seed extract with 2 teaspoons of pomegranate juice and apply it on the face. Leave it on for about an hour and wash it off with lukewarm water.

You can also use a cotton ball to apply pomegranate juice directly on the face after cleansing .

16. Prevents Skin Cancer:

Pomegranate contains anthocyanins and hydrolysable tannins which possess strong anti-oxidant and anti-tumor promoting properties. When applied directly on the skin, ellagic acid, a polyphenol antioxidant found in pomegranates inhibits the growth of cancer of the skin .

Hair Benefits of Pomegranate Juice:

17. Prevents Hair Fall:

Drinking pomegranate juice regularly strengthens the hair follicles which in turn prevent hair fall, thus giving the hair a healthy and lustrous appearance.

Powerful Health Benefits of the Pomegranate

The Powerful Health Benefits of the Pomegranate

One of the oldest known fruits, found in writings and artifacts of many cultures and religions, the pomegranate (punica granatum) is an original native of Persia. This nutrient dense, antioxidant rich fruit has been revered as a symbol of health, fertility and eternal life.

Seeding a Pomegranate

Cut the crown (protruding blossom end) off the pomegranate, removing with it some of the pale-yellow pith. Take care not to pierce the seeds within.
Lightly score the skin in quarters from stem to crown end.
Immerse the scored fruit in a large bowl of cool water and soak for 5 minutes. Holding the fruit under water, break sections apart with your fingers, separating the seeds from membrane. The seeds will sink to the bottom of the bowl.
Discard skin and membranes. Drain the seeds and dry on paper towels.
Antioxidant Rich Smoothie 

Serves: 2 Preparation Time: 5 minutes

Ingredients: 

8 cups organic baby spinach
1 cup pomegranate juice
1 cup blueberries, frozen 
1 cup strawberries, frozen 
8 dates, cut in half 
2 tablespoons flaxseeds, ground 
1/2 avocado, optional

Instructions: 

Blend all ingredients together. This is delicious & very healthy!

Find more great pomegranate recipes in the Recipe Guide in the Member Support Center (log in required) Learn more about Membership

If you're not familiar with the pomegranate, it is a red fruit with a tough outer layer; only the juice and the seeds inside are edible. Pomegranate juice is available year round, but you can purchase fresh pomegranates in most grocery stores from September through January. When refrigerated in a plastic bag, pomegranates keep for up to 2 months. Try tossing the seeds on a salad for a brilliantly colorful, crunchy, and nutritious addition.
Seeding a pomegranate may seem like a lot of work for just a piece of fruit but think again, getting at those seeds may be well worth it. The pomegranate is a nutrient dense food source rich in phytochemical compounds. Pomegranates contain high levels of flavonoids and polyphenols, potent antioxidants offering protection against heart disease and cancer. A glass of pomegranate juice has more antioxidants than red wine, green tea, blueberries, and cranberries.

Amazing Clinical Results 

This fantastic little fruit recently made its way back into the news after some spectacular clinical results. Here's what you need to know:

A compound found only in pomegranates called punicalagin is shown to benefit the heart and blood vessels. Punicalagin is the major component responsible for pomegranate's antioxidant and health benefits. It not only lowers cholesterol, but also lowers blood pressure and increases the speed at which heart blockages (atherosclerosis) melt away.

Recent medical research studied heart patients with severe carotid artery blockages. They were given an ounce of pomegranate juice each day for a year. Not only did study participants' blood pressure lower by over 12 percent, but there was a 30 percent reduction in atherosclerotic plaque. Just as astounding, participants who did not take the pomegranate juice saw their atherosclerotic plaque increase by 9 percent.2

In other studies, potent antioxidant compounds found in pomegranates have shown to reduce platelet aggregation and naturally lower blood pressure, factors that prevent both heart attacks and strokes.3

Not only are pomegranates good for your heart and blood vessels but they have been shown to inhibit breast cancer, prostate cancer, colon cancer, leukemia and to prevent vascular changes that promote tumor growth in lab animals.4 Several in vitro studies have shown this remarkable anti-cancer effect.5 Additional studies and clinical trials currently taking place are hopeful to reveal this fascinating effect on humans.

Also of note, pomegranate juice contains phytochemical compounds that stimulate serotonin and estrogen receptors, improving symptoms of depression and increasing bone mass in lab animals.6

Benefits of Pomegranate

A pomegranate is a fruit that is very rich in nutrients which makes it quite popular around the world. The fruit originated in areas of Northern India, Pakistan, Iran and Afghanistan, though it also grows in Peninsular Malaysia, Southeast Asia, California, Armenia, tropical Africa and others. This fruit has a very leathery texture on the outside that may be orange-yellow, red or purple. The inside of the pomegranate is filled with pink arils with seeds inside that are juicy and sweet.

Nutrition Facts of Pomegranate

Pomegranates are often appreciated because they are filled with more antioxidants like punicalagin than other superfoods like acai berry juice or green tea.
Pomegranates are also high in vitamin C, with 100 ml containing 16 percent of a person’s daily requirement.
It also contains high amounts of vitamin K that helps to support bone health and vitamin B5 that helps the body metabolize, protein, carbohydrates and fats.
Pomegranates are filled with manganese which helps to form bone structures during the metabolic process and potassium that helps to maintain cellular functions and balance fluid levels.
The fruit is also high in phosphorus, magnesium, calcium, zinc and iron. There is very little fat in a pomegranate and it does not contain cholesterol.
The fruit only has 130-150 calories, with around 105 calories being derived from the seeds.
These seeds are high in calories because they contain unsaturated oils, sugar and carbohydrates but there is a great deal of fiber and some protein in these seeds as well.

Benefits of Pomegranate

1. Beauty Benefits
Regenerate Cells. Pomegranate protects the epidermis and dermis by encouraging skin cell regeneration, aiding in the repair of tissues, healing wounds and encouraging circulation to skin that is healing.

Protect from the Sun. 
Consuming pomegranate provides the skin with compounds that help to protect against free radical damage which can cause sun damage, cancer and sunburn. The oil of a pomegranate contains the antioxidant ellagic acid that can help to inhibit skin tumors to protect the body from skin cancer.

Slow Aging. 
Pomegranates can help to prevent hyperpigmentation, age spots, fine lines and wrinkles that are often caused by sun damage.

Produce Youthful Skin.
 Because pomegranates help to soften the skin and produce additional elastin and collagen it can make your skin look more firm, smooth and youthful.

Help with Dry Skin. 
Pomegranates are often added to skin care products because they have a molecular structure that can penetrate deep layers of most skin types to provide additional moisture.
Use for Oily or Combination Skin. Oily or combination skin types that are acne prone can use pomegranate to sooth these outbreaks and minimize burns or scarring that can occur during breakouts.

2. Health Benefits
 Eliminate Free Radicals. The high levels of antioxidants like hydrolysable tannins or polyphenols in pomegranates help to minimize the effects of free radicals and remove free radicals from the body.

Protect Cardiovascular Health. 
Pomegranate juice can act as a blood thinner and helps to remove plaque from the arteries that will help to minimize the risk of atherosclerosis. Consuming pomegranate juice can help lower LDL cholesterol and increase HDL cholesterol to improve heart health and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.

Fight Cancer. 
The antioxidants in pomegranates are effective in clearing away some types of cancer, including breast, prostate and skin cancers.

Improve Bone Quality. 
The enzyme inhibitors in pomegranate juice can help to prevent damage to the cartilage. It can also help to control cartilage degeneration to prevent osteoarthritis.

Boost Digestive Condition. 
Pomegranate juice helps to secrete enzymes with anti-bacterial properties that aid digestion and help to fight off hemorrhoids, nausea, dysentery, intestinal parasites, piles and diarrhea. You can also use pomegranate juice as a laxative to treat constipation.

Increase Appetite. 
Children that do not have a strong appetite can drink a glass of pomegranate juice to get an appetite stimulant.

Cure Anemia. 
The high amounts of iron in pomegranates will raise hemoglobin levels in your blood to help correct anemia.

Reduce Inflammation.
 The anti-inflammatory properties of pomegranates stems from its high vitamin C content that will help to manage asthma, sore throat, cough and wheezing.

Promote Blood Circulation.
 Pomegranates are often used to help relieve blood clots and can help to create a more youthful appearance.

Help Lose Weight. 
People are finding that pomegranates have a natural property that provides you with additional energy and cleanse the body, making it easier to lose weight.

3. More Benefits for Men
Decrease Risk of Impotency. Those that have a risk of prostate cancer, impotency or atherosclerosis can consume the pomegranate juice to reduce these risk. The high antioxidants will help to manage arteriosclerosis that can lead to impotency and increase your risk of prostate cancer.

Treat Prostate Cancer. 
Consuming pomegranates has been found to reduce prostate specific antigen in clinical trials. Research is ongoing to see if pomegranates can be used to treat people that already have localized prostate cancer. During these trials the juice was found to inhibit the growth of the cancer cells and lower its risk of metastasizing. The high phytochemicals in the juice seem to have a distinct effect on delaying and stabilizing the growth of PSA in men.

4. More Benefits for Women
Aid in Pregnancy. Pomegranate juice is high in niacin, folic acid, potassium, calcium, vitamin C, iron and fiber that help to maintain a pregnant woman’s health and encourage cell growth. Consuming pomegranate wine instead of alcoholic beverages helps to curb the craving for these hazardous materials while preventing the damage that often comes with consuming alcohol while pregnant. Consuming pomegranate juice during pregnancy has also been fund to reduce cramps and sleep difficulties that often appear during pregnancy. It has also been found to increase blood flow to the baby which reduce she risk of brain damage.

Inhibit Breast Cancer.
 Studies have found that the ellagitannins in pomegranate juice will prevent estrogen responsive breast cancer cells from growing. This phytochemical inhibits aromatase that is used to create estrogen, increasing your risk of breast cancer.

Pomegranates and Diabetes

Hndful of pomegranate seeds shaped into a heart Photo Credit olgaman/iStock/Getty Images
The seed and flower of the pomegranate fruit may possess properties capable of lowering blood sugar, potentially benefiting patients with hyperglycemia and diabetes. Doctors from India to Africa are studying pomegranate seeds, flowers and their extracts and compounds for hypoglycemic, or blood sugar lowering, properties, and to identify their mechanisms. For example, a 2007 "Journal of Medicinal Food" report acknowledges the hypoglycemic activity of pomegranate seeds, flowers and juice and identifies three antioxidant acids as among their potentially anti-diabetic constituents. If you have concerns about your blood sugar, consult with your doctor and only use pomegranate-based therapies with her approval.

Pomegranate Fruit & Juice

According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, the pomegranate fuit grows on the Punica granatum tree native to Iran and now cultivated in parts of Europe, Asia, Africa and the Mediterranean. Used for millennia in folk medicine, it has since demonstrated antioxidant, antibacterial and antiviral properties in laboratory tests, although human trials have been neither as abundant nor conclusive. There is no standard dosage of pomegranate for medical purposes, although UMM's Steven D. Ehrlich, N.M.D., reports that drinking 8-12 ounces per day is considered safe. Ehrlich warns, however, that people with diabetes should not drink pomegranate juice or any fruit juice without their doctor's prior approval.

Does Pomegranate Interact With Statins? Does Pomegranate Interact With Statins? Pomegranate Vinegar Health Benefits Pomegranate Vinegar Health Benefits Does Pomegranate Juice Interfere With Prescription Drugs? Does Pomegranate Juice Interfere With Prescription Drugs? Pomegranate Juice & High Blood Pressure Pomegranate Juice & High Blood Pressure Are Pomegranates Good for Children? Are Pomegranates Good for Children? What Are the Health Benefits of Taking Pomegranate Supplements? What Are the Health Benefits of Taking Pomegranate Supplements? The Effects of Pomegranate Supplements on Diabetics The Effects of Pomegranate Supplements on Diabetics Does Pomegranate Juice Clean Your Arteries? Does Pomegranate Juice Clean Your Arteries? Pomegranate & Cancer Pomegranate & Cancer Kidney Function & Pomegranate Juice Kidney Function & Pomegranate Juice What Is the Pomegranate Fruit Good For? What Is the Pomegranate Fruit Good For? The Benefits of Pomegranate Juice Dried Powder The Benefits of Pomegranate Juice Dried Powder POM Wonderful Nutritional Facts POM Wonderful Nutritional Facts Juices That Are Good for Type 2 Diabetics Juices That Are Good for Type 2 Diabetics Methi Seeds and Diabetes Methi Seeds and Diabetes Can You Lower Cholesterol With Pomegranate Juice? Can You Lower Cholesterol With Pomegranate Juice?

Pomegranate Seed

A 2007 study in the "African Journal of Traditional, Complementary and Alternative Medicines" on the blood sugar-lowering effects in diabetic rats of several herbal compounds, including pomegranate seeds, found no significant difference in the fasting blood-glucose levels of the subjects fed pomegranate seeds from the control group. Study author Gholamali Jelodar and colleagues did, however, detect a minor, albeit negligible, effect on fasting blood-glucose levels from pomegranate seeds.\

How to prevent diabetes

Jelodar and colleagues also pointed to a 2001 study published in "Phytotherapy Research" that found that the extract of pomegranate seeds, as distinct from direct consumption of the seeds themselves, did display significant hypoglycemic effects in diabetic rats, lowering their blood sugar by about half. Jelodar and colleagues explain this apparent discrepancy between pomegranate seeds and their extract as possibly due to a compound in pomegranate seeds with hypoglycemic effects that, in extract form, was more concentrated and therefore more effective in lowering blood sugar than the seed form.

Pomegranate Flower

According to a 2008 "Diabetes, Obesity and Metabolism" review, practitioners of the two medical sciences of India, Ayurveda and Unani, prescribe pomegranate flower to treat diabetes. The review's authors suggest that certain compounds in pomegranate flower called PPARs may be responsible for this effect, noting that PPARs are involved in regulating blood sugar balance and that synthetic PPARs are commonly used to treat hyperglycemia, among other metabolic disorders.

Why diabetics should drink pomegranate juice

I have more great news on pomegranate products. In my last health alert, I showed you how pomegranate extract can protect your skin from damage the sun causes. Now there’s news that pomegranates can protect diabetics from vascular disease. This is important because diabetics are at greater risk of vascular disease.

In this study, researchers wanted to evaluate the effects of concentrated pomegranate juice or extracts on vascular disease markers. They followed 30 diabetics. Here’s what they found:

Pomegranate products had a marked beneficial effect on their lipids. And, since HDL cholesterol protects you from oxidative damage, their oxidative stress dropped by 35%! Why would pomegranate help? It has an enzyme called PON1. PON1 helps HDL help you. Pomegranate increased the enzyme’s activity by 30%.

Finally, serum thiol levels increased 25%. Thiol includes the all-important glutathione molecule. Higher glutathione levels will protect you from heavy metals, chemicals, and even infectious disease, even viruses.

The study’s conclusion? Pomegranate products can slow atherosclerosis in diabetics.

Pomegranate products are widely available online and in most grocery stores. If you have diabetes, you might consider pomegranate extract or juice. It falls into the category of polyphenol source superfoods. These also include blueberries, cranberries, certain seaweeds (the source of Alginol), green tea, and more. And, you don’t have to be diabetic to get the benefits.

I have no doubt that pomegranates, if studied, would trump anything the Pharma snake oil peddlers have for vascular disease. These powerful phytochemicals and polyphenols, are what your body is looking for to restore healthy functions. And, you can’t beat the price in comparison to chemical drugs!

How Pomegranate Seeds and Overeating

This pretty seasonal fruit can help you fight off colds, boost your heart, and avoid overeating.

 It might be a bit of a process to seed a pomegranate, but this antioxidant-rich fruit deserves a role your fall diet. The tart and juicy arils, the edible seeds that come from the fruit's "shell," contain a big helping of nutrition.

1. Immunity boost. To prevent sickness, vitamin C is one of the essential vitamins your body needs. Instead of overloading on citrus fruits, you'll be glad to know that the seeds from one pomegranate ACCOUNT for nearly 40 percent of your vitamin C for the day.

2. Healthy heart support. If you're concerned about eating the right foods for your ticker, pomegranate seeds are great. According to Joel Fuhrman, not only do arils lower cholesterol, they can "lower high blood pressure and increase the speed at which heart blockages melt away."

3. Overeating prevention. For being so small, pomegranates are surprisingly high in fiber—one of the most important nutrients for sustainable weight loss. Since high-fiber foods keep your body satisfied for longer, you'll be less likely to overeat if you're full. Snacking on pomegranate arils on their own is a healthy and refreshing fall treat, but there are plenty of other tasty ways to incorporate this delicious fruit into your diet.

How to Enjoy Pomegranate Seeds

1. Sprinkle on breakfast. Pomegranate arils go great with a ton of other fruits and berries, so let them work their tasty tart magic on your breakfast favorites! We especially love these little guys sprinkled on a cup of oatmeal, quinoa, or Greek yogurt.

2. Be a little saucy. Who says cranberry sauce needs to be saved for Thanksgiving? Serve this cranberry-pomegranate variation that mixes up the flavor and ups the nutritional value of this holiday staple. This recipe will complement a piece of grilled chicken or roasted turkey all season long.

3. Top your veggies. Skip the nuts on your favorite roasted veggies, and top things off with some fresh pomegranate seeds instead. They're especially delicious on roasted carrots or roasted Brussels sprouts.


4. Drink that juice. While eating the pomegranate arils are the best way to reap their nutrients, the juice still offers great benefits. Some preliminary research shows that drinking pomegranate juice might even improve blood flow to the heart.

Pomegranate Juice and Acne

 Pomegranates are proven to be of help in the world of medicine for many centuries now. The Egyptians, in particular, benefited from the fruit and juice of a pomegranate. This is because of its antioxidant content. The very same content is said to be responsible for its being of good use to treating acne. With this relationship, let us look more into the relationship of pomegranate juice and acne.

Antioxidants, Pomegranate Juice and Acne

The antioxidants in pomegranate juice is said to play a major role in getting rid of acne. These compounds are also known to help with free radicals, unstable oxygen molecules. We all know that free radicals play a major role in damaging cells thus increasing bodily inflammation.Pomegranate Juice and Acne

Inflammation, on the other hand, is significant to acne formation. This can worsen acne, whether you like it or not. When the inflammation goes deeper into your skin, all the more that your acne will turn out bad.

With vitamins A, C and E present as antioxidants in pomegranate juice, you now have a solution to acne. These antioxidants will help fight acne. You have to note though that Pomegranate juice is not filled with as much Vitamin C as you need. Vitamin C, as we all know, is a potent antioxidant that needs to be found in acne-fighting sources such as pomegranate juice.

What You Need to Know When Drinking Pomegranate Juice for Acne

A glass of 100% pomegranate juice is recommended if you want to solve your problems with acne. Chemical preparations of this fruit may not have as much effect on acne simply because it is boosted with sugar that later on boosts insulin levels. This might increase inflammation on the body thus you need the 100% version instead. Remember though that you should take only at least 8 ounces of this juice to prevent weight gain which may disrupt levels of insulin in the body and might worsen acne.

What to Include with Pomegranate Juice to Fight Acne

Drinking pomegranate juice alone may not be enough to conquer acne. It is relevant to make diet changes and include whole fruits and vegetables in your daily meals. If you want to extract the most benefits from drinking pomegranate juice for acne, you might want to buy it from October to December and then store it at room temperature for it to last up to three months.

Together with fruits and vegetables, you may also go to a dermatologist. He will assess your condition accordingly and may recommend other acne treatments that may work on your problem. Remember not to take your dermatologist’s advice for granted.

Topical remedies for acne are available to balance the functions delivered by pomegranate for acne treatment. You can always avail of those that contain benzoyl peroxide, salicylic acid and clindamycin but only with the prescription from your doctor. It is wise to exercise to bring out the sweat in you and to support the change in your diet. When you have done these altogether, it is easier to bid acne goodbye.

Benefits Pomegranates Good for Children

The pomegranate is a fruit that is often known as a “superfood” thanks to its high antioxidant content. Originally native to Iran, the fruit is similar in dimension to a medium-sized orange, but has reddish-pink, leathery skin. Inside the pomegranate are hundreds of small translucent sacs, which are also called seeds, filled with red, or sometimes pink, juice. These sacs are the only edible part of the pomegranate. Given a pomegranate's highly healthful properties and low calories, you should aim to include the fruit in your child’s diet. Most kids will be attracted by the bright color of the seeds and enjoy their sweet-tart taste.

Nutrition

Pomegranates are rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamins C and E. These two vitamins are powerful antioxidants that help expel free radicals, unstable oxygen molecules that attack healthy tissues, from the body. The fruit is also high in fiber, potassium, iron and folate, a water-soluble B-complex vitamin.

Benefits

The high nutritional content in pomegranates gives numerous health benefits to the consumer. The antioxidants in pomegranates may help prevent a variety of diseases and illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and high blood pressure. In addition, the B-vitamin folate in pomegranates aids the healthy growth of red blood cells and promotes good blood circulation.

Uses

You can offer pomegranate seeds to your kids in a number of ways. Sprinkle the seeds over yogurt or in a salad, for extra flavor or crunch. You can also make pomegranate juice by crushing a cup or two of the seeds in a blender, and then straining the resulting juice with cheesecloth. They can drink the juice straight or you can include it in a fruit smoothie. You can also give them the seeds plain -- in a bowl with a spoon. Little kids may enjoy eating the seeds as they pick them from the fruit with their fingers. Just be sure to dress them appropriately: pomegranate juice stains.

Pomegranate Juice for the Brain

Knowing the health effects of certain fruits can help you shop for your health. The antioxidants that pomegranate juice contains help to maintain your general well-being. Numerous studies also suggest that the nutrients contained in pomegranates can help to protect your brain from different forms of damage. Knowing how helpful pomegranate juice can be may give you the motivation to make pomegranate juice a permanent component of your diet.

Antioxidant Content

In an article for the Journal of Agricultural Food Chemistry, M.I. Gil and colleagues say that pomegranate juice contains high amounts of antioxidants. The commercial pomegranate juices that Gil and colleagues examined contained three times as many antioxidants as red wine and green tea. The concentration of antioxidants was higher in juices that were extracted from the entire pomegranate, rather than from only the flesh.

Antioxidants and Brain Function

According to an article from the Franklin Institute, “Maintaining the Oxygen Balance in Your Brain,” antioxidants prevent free radicals from damaging cells in your brain. Antioxidants also indirectly help you maintain healthy brain function by protecting your heart from free radicals. Elderly individuals with better cardiovascular health tend to have better memory because the brain relies on the cardiovascular system to function normally.

Protection from Alzheimer's Disease

According to neuroscientist Richard Hartman and colleagues in an article for the journal Neurobiology of Disease, pomegranate juice may reduce your risk of getting Alzheimer’s disease. Hartman and colleagues fed pomegranate juice to mice with symptoms that mimicked Alzheimer's disease. The mice who drank pomegranate juice learned how to navigate a water maze more quickly than mice who drank only sugar water. Hartman and colleagues attribute the better learning abilities in mice who drank pomegranate juice to the antioxidants that pomegranate juice contains.

Pregnant Woman

In an article for the journal, Pediatric Research, D. J. Loren and colleagues say that pomegranate juice can protect the brains of infants if they are deprived of oxygen before birth. Loren and colleagues fed pomegranate juice to rats during the last trimester of pregnancy and while the newborn rats fed from their mothers. The rat pups from mothers that drank pomegranate juice showed less damaged brain tissue after being deprived of oxygen for 45 minutes. Loren and colleagues suggest that consuming pomegranate juice during pregnancy likely protects infants’ brains.

Glucose

Like most fruit, pomegranates contain high amounts of glucose. According to the United States Dietary Association website, your brain uses glucose for energy more than other nutrients. Since your body also converts glucose into energy extremely quickly, pomegranate juice can therefore give your brain a boost in energy first thing in the morning.