As I report in my food blog, an intriguing study by University of Pennsylvania researchers has pinpointed specific nutrients that are key to optimal sleep. One surprising finding was that people with the healthiest sleep pattern (averaging 7 to 8 hours per night) consumed more vitamin C than those who got the least sleep (less than 5 hours).
Pomegranate seeds and juice rank as one of my favorite sources of this antioxidant vitamin. Not only are the juicy little morsels high in C, but they’re also packed with B vitamins, folic acid, potassium and iron. Pomegranates have a wide range of health benefits, including these:
Improves cholesterol levels. In one study, volunteers who drank pomegranate juice daily for 8 weeks had drops in total and LDL (bad) cholesterol.
Boosts testosterone levels, according to another study. This intriguing finding inspired some media reports calling pomegranate juice “the new Viagra.”
Can lower blood pressure, according to numerous researchers.
Fighting chronic inflammation. Unsweetened pomegranate juice has been shown to be remarkably effective at combating this fiery process.
Anti-cancer effects. Lab studies suggest that compounds in pomegranate juice may inhibit cancer cells from spreading.
Check out my sleep page for more articles to help you beat insomnia and achieve the sleep you crave.
