What are the health benefits of pomegranates? They seem to be a new health craze, especially in drinks.
Pomegranate is rich in minerals like potassium and copper. Iron is present in small quantity, while there are also traces of magnesium, phosphorus, zinc and selenium. Pomegranate is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Vitamin B6 and Pantothenic Acid.
The greatest benefit seems to be in reducing different types of inflammation in the body. Inflammation is reduced and the enzymes that break down cartilage become less active.
Pomegranate contains antioxidants like polyphenols, tannins and anthocyannins which effects in removal of free radicals from our body cells. It also helps in repair of cells and boosts the immune system. Pomegranate juice is known to be among the super healthy drinks of today. It is helpful in osteoarthritis and keeping the skin and heart healthy. Note: Be aware that plastic bottled juice will be absorbing the toxins from its packaging. Look for pomegranate juice in glass bottles.
Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants that can keep bad LDL cholesterol from oxidizing. This degradation of LDL seems to be an initial step in the development of heart disease. In addition, pomegranate juice, can help keep blood platelets from clumping together to form unwanted clots.
Word of caution: Pomegranate juice appears to interfere with certain medications the same way that grapefruit juice does so be careful to ask your doctor if taking a prescription.
Julie Daniluk, RHN, hosts Healthy Gourmet, a reality cooking show that highlights the ongoing battle between taste and nutrition by using unique groups such as bikers, dragon boat racers and ballroom dancers to challenge their taste buds with nutritious foods. Julie is excited that her show was chosen to be part of OWN (the Oprah Winfrey Network). Similar to Oprah’s book club, programs on OWN explore stories of strength and transformation. Television viewers also recognize Julie from her “busted” segments on The Right Fit (W Network) and The Marilyn Dennis Show (CTV) where she examines the foods people need to stay healthy, acting as a nutrition encyclopedia. Her fun and engaging style comes in handy when she creates a recipe a week that is packed with health tips for www.chatelaine.com. Her new book Meals That Heal Inflammation is available in stores now.