Although pomegranates can be eaten whole, the most popular method is to make them into a refreshing, tasty juice. According to scientific research, the health benefits of pomegranate juice include disease prevention, healing and overall wellness.

The benefits of pomegranate fruit have been known for centuries, however only recently has modern science proved the correctness of traditional knowledge.

In terms of nutritional advantages, pomegranate juice is rich in folic acid, vitamins A, E and C. A glass of the juice contains about 40% of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamin C. The juice is also an excellent source of anti-oxidants which fight the free radicals in the body that are linked to several diseases. Scientists believe that the strong anti-oxidizing properties are due to the levels of tannins, polyphenols and anthrocyanins, which are higher than in green tea, red wine or cranberry juice.

Free radicals are connected with many age-related neurological conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, arthritis and pre-mature aging. Therefore, the antioxidants in pomegranates can prevent impairment from all these diseases.

In the area of cardiovascular health, research has shown that pomegranate juice can help prevent heart attacks and heart disease. The juice also prevents - possibly reverses and reduces - the build up of plaque in the arteries which in turn lowers the occurrence of strokes and blood clots.

Furthermore, the juice contains compounds that function as blood thinners and enhance good blood flow in the heart. It raises the levels of HDL (‘good’ cholesterol) while lowering LDL (‘bad’ cholesterol). Regular consumption of pomegranate juice also lowers the blood pressure levels.

In women, there are special benefits in the area of breast cancer development. Researchers in Israel found that ingredients in the juice destroy breast cancer cells while allowing the healthy ones to survive. The juice may even prevent the formation of breast cancer cells to begin with. In men, the health benefits of pomegranate juice are linked to prostrate cancer. Studies were conducted on a group of prostrate sufferers in which the men drank a glass of the juice daily. The results were a stabilizing of their antigen levels which decreased their need for chemotherapy or hormone therapies. Separate research studies have shown that it also inhibits other types of cancers such as lung and skin.

The health benefits of pomegranate juice extend to good bone structure, with the prevention of osteoarthritis and cartilage deterioration. Ingredients in the juice inhibit the enzymes that cause cartilage damage. In unborn babies, studies have shown that when pregnant mothers drink pomegranate juice, additional protection is conferred to the neonatal brain especially during difficult births where brain damage is likely to occur. For the teeth, the juice helps to prevent the formation of plaque and generally keeps the teeth in good health.

The many health benefits of pomegranate juice are further increased with a healthy lifestyle. Daily routines should include regular exercise, well-balanced meals and plenty of fluids. Although pomegranate juice is not the cheapest juice option, its enormous health benefits make it an excellent choice for those keen on maintaining overall good health.