5 Health Benefits of Pomegranate (+ Recipe)
In ancient times, pomegranates were held in high regard as a symbol of fertility- and for good reason. Pomegranates are a powerhouse of nutrients that are beneficial for hormone balance plus overall vitality and aging.
Antioxidant
Pomegranate is rich in polyphenols, making it a great antioxidant. In fact, pomegranate has an ORAC value (antioxidant rating system) of 10,500! Compare that with strawberries which are 2,600 (and that’s still awesome) It’s even been shown to help reduce oxidative stress in endurance athletes- making it a huge winner, even for the moderate exerciser.
Potential Estrogen Regulator
Pomegranate seed oil contains 17-α-estradiol, which has some synergistic effects on estrogen-related health issues. In post-menopausal women, this means your bones are more protected when using this nourishing food.
Fertility
In worm studies, the use of pomegranate helped to ensure healthy fertility in present and new generations. Pomegranate helps to bring blood flow to the uterus, and to potentially thicken the uterine lining for excellent implantation of a fertilized egg. Pomegranate may also cause uterine contractions, so it’s best to avoid this during pregnancy in high amounts.
Anticancer
Pomegranate has been studied quite a bit in relation to breast, endometrial and cervical cancers. It has been shown that pomegranate helps to reduce the expression of a cell growth regulator and may also help in accelerating apoptosis (cell death).
Gut Health
It’s so crazy-sounding, but pomegranate has been shown to help with E.coli infections and other pathogens in part due to it’s tannin content.
[yumprint-recipe id=’9′]
Pingback: Amazing Nutrient Packed & Tasty Salads - Nourishe