Pomegranates may inhibit the growth of breast and prostate cancer, improve blood vessel function, and protect the heart, preliminary results of several studies suggest. The fruit contains very high levels of polyphenol antioxidants, compounds that protect against a host of diseases.

Pomegranates are an apple-sized fruit with a thick red or purple skin. When a pomegranate is split open, there are hundreds of juicy seeds inside. Only the juicy seeds are edible. The sweet seeds can be eaten as is, sprinkled onto oatmeal or yogurt, or tossed into salads or savory recipes. It is a winter fruit in the United States, so grab the last of the fresh fruits in grocery stores now. Pomegranate juice is another way to get your fill of pomegranate goodness year round. In a cell study, pomegranate extract inhibited the growth of breast cancer cells and induced cell death. Pomegranate juice may retard the growth of prostate cancer as well. Other studies suggest drinking pomegranate juice improves arterial function, which in turn boosts heart health. No one food can promise complete protection against any disease, however, so your best bet for protecting your health is to eat a varied diet full of fruits and vegetables, exercise at least 30 minutes on most days of the week, and stay on top of doctor-recommended health screenings.

Anticancer activities of pomegranate extracts and genistein in human breast cancer cells. Jeune, M. A., Kumi-Diaka, J., Brown, J., Journal of Medicinal Food 2005 Winter;8(4):469-475.

REFERENCES: Pomegranate juice reduces oxidized low-density lipoprotein downregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in human coronary endothelial cells. de Nigris, F., Williams-Ignarro, S., Botti, C., Sica, V., Ignarro, L. J., Napoli, C., 2006 Jan 11; [Epub ahead of print]