Pomegranate juice is high in antioxidants, including polyphenols, tannins, and anthocyanins. In this sense it is similar to the other rich, red juices like grape and cranberry juice (red wine contains similar benefits but only in small doses!) The only downside to Pomegranate juice is that it is very high in sugar; therefore, you’ll receive optimum benefits when you take small portions. It’s great to use as part of a detox, or as a regular part of a diet aimed at total wellbeing.
The most important news about pomegranate juice is in relation to the health of your heart. Amazingly, there is building scientific evidence for the value of pomegranate juice in treating heart and blood pressure conditions.
Atherosclerosis – A 2005 study at the Preventative Medicine Research Institute inCalifornia found that patients with coronary heart disease saw a decrease in atherosclerosis when taking a glass of pomegranate juice every day. Atherosclerosis is the gradual build up of blockage in the arteries, and a leading cause of heart disease.
Preventing heart disease – Preliminary studies at the Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda,India suggest that regular intake of pomegranate juice can help prevent heart disease. A 2010 experiment saw two groups of rats being given a chemical that induces heart disease. The control group developed symptoms as expected, while the group that had been fed pomegranate juice for the preceding 30 days showed significant resistance to the condition.
High blood pressure – A study published in the Nutrition Review, 2009 showed that pomegranate juice not only improves blood flow, but reduces high blood pressure as well. It has been seen to help strengthen the whole circulatory system by reducing blockages in the veins and increasing the thickness of blood vessels. The 2009 study found that pomegranate juice fortifies the cardiovascular system and advised that it should be among the main recommendations for a heart-healthy diet.
It is clear from these examples that pomegranate juice can make a worthy contribution to your wellness. Thanks to all the research showing its success in heart-related conditions, the Johns Hopkins University School of Nursing now strongly recommends its use in managing high blood pressure and heart disease. It is an excellent contribution to your all-round nutrition, and is likely to prove effective for those who have already developed a heart condition.