I haven't seen a real pomegranate fruit yet. We don't have it in the Philippines and I don't know where I can buy the fruit. I only buy the ready to drink juice from Healthy Options. I got interested with pomegranate when I was searching for natural cure that will help my dad with his prostate problems. He was diagnosed with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), a condition common for men after they reach the age of 40. I was so concerned that it might eventually develop into cancer considering he was 69 years old when we had him operated. Researching about pomegranate made me aware of the various health benefits of this super fruit.
Health Benefits of Pomegranate
High nutritional value. The seeds called arils contains fiber, protein, and a good source of vitamins A, C, and E. It is also loaded with vitamin K, potassium, and folate. It is rich in antioxidants higher than that of green tea.
Helps fight prostate cancer. In monitoring the health condition of the prostate, a blood test called Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA) is performed to measure the increase in it's value over a short period of time. My dad was ordered to have his PSA result taken every month. High level of PSA and increase in shorter period can lead to prostate cancer death.
Laboratory studies have shown an impressive slow down of cancer cell reproduction and cell death by those who drinks pomegranate extract. A study documented at NCBI has shown that drinking 237 ml (8 oz) of pomegranate juice per day increased the PSA doubling time from 15 months to 54 months.
Good for the heart. Pomegranate juice helps lower the amount of bad cholesterol (LDL) while increasing the good cholesterol (HDL). It also helps lower blood pressure that may cause heart attack.
Helps prevent breast cancer. Pomegranate has high antioxidant content. Some studies showed that pomegranate extract inhibits the growth of cancer cells. It is also said to block the enzyme that converts androgen to estrogen. Higher levels of estrogen increase the risk of breast cancer.
Good for the immune system. Pomegranate has anti-bacterial and anti-inflammatory characteristics. It is very effective for infections in the mouth such as gingivitis and other gum-related problems.
Good for the stomach. The high dietary fiber content aids in digestion. If you are having problems with your bowel movement, pomegranate helps in regulating the function of the digestive system.
It seems like pomegranate juice is one of the healthiest fruit juices. It taste good. Somehow I can compare it to have a hint of tamarind taste (though my dad said it doesn't). Have you already tried drinking pomegranate juice? Or are you using it as an ingredient to your dish?