Bimpa

For more than a decade we have been introduced to “superfoods.” The term superfruit was first used by the food, beverage and diet industry in about 2005 to describe produce that offers more than average nutrition and many health benefits. “Superfruit” is more of a category of description derived from “superfoods” that was used to promote of fruits and vegetables however it is very true that many of the fruits given this title really do possess nutritional benefits not shared by other foods. Superfoods is not a real category of medicinal foods that could be defined and rated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration or the U.S. Department of Agriculture however indigenous cultures have been enjoying the healing properties and delicious taste of superfruits for centuries.

Superfruits are considered to be a cut above ordinary fruits because of their high nutritional content and low fat content. These are the fruits that have numerous phytonutrients and special compounds that can help in the prevention of cancer, relieve inflammation and fight conditions associated with aging.

Generally the nutritive value of any food is based on “what’s in it?” Foods with high nutritive value are low in calories and fat, have “good” carbohydrates, many vitamins and minerals and components that can help heal and optimize body functions. This is how superfoods got their name. They have superior levels of nutrition packed into foods with lower calorie counts.

Superfoods contain high levels of antioxidants. Antioxidants are substances that can help protect your cells from damaging molecules known as free radicals. Superfruits are also packed with vitamins such as A, C and E. Foods high in these vitamins help optimize the immune system and improve visual and skin health. Bowel function is improved by the high amounts of fiber in these fruits.

Many of the foods that we are familiar with in every day life are superfruits, especially the berries such as blueberries, raspberries and blackberries. However it is the fruits that are from exotic places in the world that tend to pack the most phytonutrients and anti-oxidants and tend to have the most ability to fight cancer, arthritis, colds, flu, aging and other common conditions. These fruits, (like dragon fruit, lychees and mangosteens) are strange looking but they seem are becoming more of a regular sight in our supermarkets. If you can’t find them there you can also try searching in local Asian, Far Eastern or Caribbean markets.

The pomegranate is a  pretty red fruit with its glittering jewel like red seeds are good sources of A, C and folic acid.  Many women are reaching for a glass of this juice for a quick pick me up every day and with good reason1

These fruit have high levels of polyphenol antioxidants with powerful free-radical scavenging ability. Tannins, anthocyanins, ellagic acid and gallic acid are all types of polyphenols that are found in pomegranates.

In a human study, pomegranate juice consumption decreased LDL cholesterol and increased the activity of serum paraoxonase (an enzyme associated with HDL cholesterol that is believed to protect against the oxidation of LDL cholesterol).

In other research pomegranate juice has been proved effective in reducing factors leading to heart disease, and may clear clogged arteries, reducing build-up of plaque by up to 30%.

Pomegranate juice is high in antioxidants. Studies suggest that pomegranate juice may contain almost three times the total antioxidant ability compared to the same quantity of green tea or red wine. Pomegranates are also brimming with vitamins A, C, E and iron and just one small glass a day has been proven to have many health benefits such as reduced cholesterol levels.

Pomegranate is an excellent source of folic acid so great for those planning pregnancy, and essential for the formation of red blood cells and DNA.

Pomegranates also keep your immune system happy. It is one of the few plants that are a source of conjugated fatty acids. It also contains an abundant amount of punicic acid, which has been called a “super CLA. Studies suggest that this may support the immune system and build the natural ability of the body to fight against ailments like human cancer, obesity, diabetes and heart diseases.

Phytoestrogens, which are similar to the estrogens produced naturally by the human body, are also contained in pomegranates and in particular in the seeds. Using pomegranate seed oil has served to ease the symptoms associated with menopause and pre-menopause, such as mood swings, hot flashes, night sweats, vaginal dryness and diminished appetite. If PMS is spoiling your day try eating some pomegranates or having a glass of the healing ruby red juice.

Trying to stay on the wagon? Pomegranate Juice is Wine for Sober People! It looks just like wine when it is in a glass at a party and you will be nice and fresh for work the next day if you sip on this instead of redwing at an office party.