Pomegranate Nutritional Information

Pomegranates were known as the "fruit of the dead" in Greek mythology. It was the pomegranate that Persephone ate in Hades that caused her to be trapped in the underworld for parts of the year. Throughout history, the fruit, flowers, rind and seeds have all been used. Helen of Troy was believed to have colored her cheeks and lips with the fruit as a cosmetic. The fruit has been revered for nutritional and healing values that are now being proven in scientific experiments today.

Vitamins

• Pomegranates are high in vitamin c, calcium, phosphorus, riboflavin, niacin and thiamin. They are also high in ellagic acid, which is an antioxidant. Ellagic acid is responsible for protecting genes from cancer cells.

Antioxidants

• Pomegranates have more antioxidant effects than green tea or red wine due to hydrolyzable tannins and anthocyanins present in the fruit. Anthocyanins are responsible for giving the fruit its red color.

Cancer

• A study at the University of Wisconsin found that pomegranate fruit extract had anti-tumor effects in mice, and may be useful in fighting and preventing prostrate cancer. Another study at Technion-Israel Institute of Technology found that pomegranate seed oil can kill breast cancer cells.

Heart Health

• Daily intake of pomegranate juice can help to reduce the levels of LDL cholesterol. It also helps to prevent hardening of the arteries, reduce blood pressure and prevent heart disease.

Alzheimer's Disease

• Polyphenols present in pomegranates protect the body against oxidative stress that may lead to Alzheimer's disease. Pomegranate juice has also been found to increase cognitive function in mice, which may also be beneficial in fighting Alzheimer's disease.