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In a recent study published in the Journal of Agriculture and Food Chemistry in February 2008 found that pomegranate juice tested higher in overall phenolic content and antioxidant activity than red wine, Concord grape, blueberry and orange juices.
Study leader Dr. David Heber of the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California Los Angeles said pomegranate juice ranked higher than other beverages that have recently been touted as containing superior levels of antioxidants such as acai juice and white and green teas.
Pomegranate juice is the leader in the healthy beverage category by demonstrating the most complete free radical scavenging activity, greater protection of low-density lipoprotein -- cholesterol from oxidation -- and the highest polyphenol content compared to red wine and several juices.
The antioxidant potency composite index of pomegranate juice was at least 20 percent greater than any other beverage included in the study.
In some other clinical studies, pomegranate juice has been shown to be of significant benefit, especially in the prevention of heart disease. To start, a glass of pomegranate juice contains about 40% of the US Recommended Daily Allowance (RDA) of Vitamin C. It also has Vitamin A, E and folic acid in good quantities.
Pomegranate juice has also been shown to work well as a blood thinner. Research is revealing that it may be an excellent agent for promoting blood flow to the heart. It also has been shown to reduce plaque in the arteries, and to raise “good” levels of cholesterol while helping lower “bad” cholesterol.
Most physicians are quick to point out pomegranate juice should be just one aspect of a healthy diet and exercise program and that pomegranate juice alone is not a magic bullet. But the preliminary research is very encouraging in demonstrating the potential helpful effects in preventing heart disease, heart attacks and stroke.
But it doesn't stop there. Some research has also focused on the antioxidant nature of pomegranate juice and its usefulness in fighting certain forms of cancer. The very early results have been tentatively shown to reduce incidence of breast and skin cancer. It has also been tested and shown to slow the growth of prostate cancer in mice.
Some researchers have also taken a look at the relationship between pomegranate juice and osteortritis. They found that pomegranate juice tends to act as an inhibitor on enzymes responsible for causing damage to cartilage. In that particular series of studies, an extract of pomegranate was applied directly onto the damaged cartilage. Continuing research is examining if there is any cause and effect between the oral ingestion of pomegranate juice and it's positive effects on cartilage.
The bottom line is that the evidence is overwhelming that pomegranate juice is a wonderfully healthy drink. And while much more research is needed to nail down the science, pomegranate juice looks like a new rising star.
