Health Benefits of Pomegranate
The delicious pomegranate is as rich in tradition as it is in taste. The exotic fruit has held the reputation of having legendary powers for centuries. The Persians believed Eve plucked a pomegranate from the Garden of Eve, not an apple. The Egyptians surrounded their dead with the fruit because they thought it provided eternal life. And the Chinese ate the seeds for good fortune.
Today, the pomegranate is considered a rich source for antioxidants. Not only do antioxidants protect cells from the damaging effects of oxidation, they also reduce low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or ‘bad” cholesterol.
Research also suggests that the health benefits of pomegranate can include lowered blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, and defense against prostate cancer.
Pomegranate may even prevent and slow Alzheimer’s disease. In one study, mice bred to develop dementia were given pomegranate juice. They garnered less amyloid plaque than the control mice and performed mental tasks significantly better.
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