An interesting study published online by the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences demonstrates how pomegranate juice reduced the progress of atherosclerosis by at least 30 percent. You can certainly understand why: Previous research has shown the antioxidant content in pomegranate juice could reduce plaque buildup on artery walls and promote the production of nitric oxide that relaxes the oxidative stress on the cells that line blood vessels.

All by themselves, pomegranates are a good source of antioxidants, vitamin C and potassium too.

Scientists tested the health-promoting effects of pomegranate juice on mice bred with high cholesterol and human heart cells. When pomegranate juice was added to heart cells, nitric oxide spiked by 50 percent. Conversely, the plaque buildup in mice fell by some 30 percent.

It is always good to optimize your health by consuming whole foods like pomegranates. But remember too much of a good thing can throw your insulin levels out of balance. Certain fruits and vegetables should be eaten in moderation because of their high sugar levels which can increase the insulin levels of most people.

Along those same lines, some "all-natural" juices may be anything but healthy for you too. If you're interested in trying pomegranate juice, you may want to consider Brownwood Acres Pomegranate Juice Concentrate, sold in my Web store.

Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences March 21, 2005

Yahoo News March 22, 2005