The Biblical fruit that could reduce cancer risk and inflammation

A fruit that has been cultivated since ancient times and is even mentioned in the Bible could help reduce your risk of cancer. Pomegranates are believed to have originated in an area of Asia that now covers Iran and parts of India. The fruit is hailed for being low in calories while high in a number of vitamins, minerals and fibre, which boast a wide range of health benefits.

While the fruit itself is generally large, it is the seeds inside contain the powerful benefits. Many of these benefits can also be obtained by drinking pomegranate juice - although it will depend on how much the whole fruit was used in the juice-making process. Read below for a full breakdown on some of the key health benefits of consuming pomegranate.



.. One pomegranate contains more than one third of an adult's recommended amount of daily fibre.

This substance helps to lower the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and bowel cancer. Official NHS guidance states that most people in the UK are getting enough fibre in their diet, and is encouraging people to eat more fruits and vegetables containing the nutrient as part of a balanced diet. Pomegranates are one such source.

A number of studies have found pomegranates could play a role in preventing certain types of cancers when consumed regularly. One study found the fruit, as well as juice made from it, helped to modulate 'multiple signalling pathways'. This, researchers say, suggest it could play a role in preventing and even treating a number of cancers affecting the skin, prostate, colon, lung, and breast.

However, researchers have said further studies must be carried out before definitive conclusions can be drawn on this. Pomegranates contain two particular compounds that can reduce inflammation throughout the body - ellagitannins and punicalagins. Ellagitannins are a type of polyphenol with anti-inflammatory effects.

These properties can be found in pomegranate juice when the whole fruit is pressed for it. This substance is largely fermented in the colon, where it is turned into urolithins. These travel all over the body, reducing inflammation and even reducing age-related negative effects.

Aside from being an anti-inflammatory, ellagitannins as well as other polyphenols and flavonoids found in pomegranate boast powerful antioxidant effects. These substances help to reduce the level of free radicals in the body which can damage cells, thus contributing to aging and even cancer growth in some cases..