Pomegranates: Antioxidant Superpower

On a recent trip to India, my children re-discovered pomegranates.  I have to admit, I don't usually buy pomegranates because they are such a pain to peel. However, after watching my children devour them, I have to reconsider.  The icing on the cake is that pomegranates are very healthy! Not only are pomegranates full of potassium and vitamin C - which is especially important for a strong immune system - they are also very rich in antioxidants.

Antioxidants are important to prevent oxidative damage to our bodies.  Oxidation is what happens when you peel an apple and leave it on the counter - it turns brown.  The same thing happens to our cells and organs when they are confronted with environmental pollutants and chemicals and poor quality foods (especially foods high in hydrogenated oils and fried foods).  Over time, oxidative stress can lead to cancer, heart disease and many other degenerative diseases. Antioxidants are important to mitigate damage done by oxidation.

Antioxidants can be found in brightly-colored fruits and vegetables, green tea and red wine.  Research has shown that pomegranates have two to three times the antioxidant power or red wine or green tea! So, on your next trip to the grocery store, consider picking up a bright and beautiful pomegranate.

Rachel Khanna is a Certified Health Counselor. She resides with her husband and four daughters in Greenwich. Visit her website at: http://www.healthytiffin.net