Wednesday, September 18, 2013

The Beautiful Pomegranate


The pomegranate is one of those fruits that you either get delighted at seeing in season, or you walk right on by because you have no idea what to do with it.

Lucky for you, pomegranate season has begun.  Here at The Market, we have baskets full of fresh, locally grown fruit ready for you.

The pomegranate originated over in Persia, and different varieties of the tree have made their way around the world. In ancient times, the fruit was a symbol of health, fertility and eternal life.

The name pomegranate, derives itself from medieval Latin.  Pomum means "apple" and granatum means "seeded".  A seeded apple. If you have ever opened one up, you will know why it was called this.

However, the looks and the name of the fruit are not why the pomegranate has gained fame.  It is a sought after fruit for all of its health benefits.

It is chock full of so many nutrients, but most importantly vitamins B, C, K, folic acid and potassium.  The fruit is also loaded with polyphenols and antioxidants that help ward off heart disease, cancer, control weight, fight cell damage and reduce cholesterol.  If that is not enough, the seeds are an awesome source of fiber.

It is said that a glass of pomegranate juice has more antioxidants than a glass of red wine, a cup of green tea, or a glass of cranberry juice.  That's pretty good.


If you don't know how to open or seed a pomegranate, I am including a link to a short YouTube video that shows you how.  I could give you pointers, but I actually needed to watch this video myself to know how cut one open correctly.

Still don't know what to do with a pomegranate?  Here is a link chock full of different recipes you can try out. http://allrecipes.com/recipes/fruits-and-vegetables/fruits/pomegranates/.

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Events this weekend, Sat. 21st.

10:30 - Gardening with Michelle - Growing Strawberries

11:30 - Nutrition with Sandra - Gluten Free Baking

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Happy health,

Sandra
In-house Nutrition Therapist

**If you would like to know more about me, please visit my blog at www.renewwholehealth.com/blog.