To detox the body means to remove toxins and waste from the bodily systems. Because the small intestine absorbs needed nutrients, vitamins, and minerals from foods and releases them into the bloodstream, it is sometimes beneficial to drink juices when nourishing and/or detoxing the body. Pomegranate juice contains high amounts of vitamin C, antioxidants, and healing properties which make it ideal for cleansing the body.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly known as the American Dietetic Association) defines an “antioxidant” as:
“…dietary substances including some nutrients such as beta carotene, vitamins C and E and selenium, that can prevent damage to your body cells or repair damage that has been done.
“Antioxidants work by significantly slowing or preventing the oxidative - or damage from oxygen - process caused by substances called free radicals that can lead to cell dysfunction and the onset of problems like heart disease and diabetes. Antioxidants may also improve immune function and perhaps lower your risk for infection and cancer.” (Team, 2006)
Pomegranate juice contains high amounts of vitamin C which is excellent for the immune system. In his Huffington post article, “Big Benefits of Pomegranate Juice”, Dr. Leo Galland states that one 8 oz. glass of pomegranate juice consumed each day for three months may:
- Reduce dangerous LDL-cholesterol in blood
- Improve blood flow to the heart in patients with coronary artery disease
- Reduce thickening of the arteries that supply blood to the brain
- Lower the level of systolic blood pressure (Leo Galland, 2011)
In an article posted on Livestrong.com entitled, “What Juices Are Good for a Detox Diet?” by Fossette Allane, pomegranate juice may help lower cholesterol and reduce inflammation. One pomegranate contains 15 percent the recommended daily allowance of vitamin C. (Allane, 2011)
When embarking on a juice detox, it is best to use fresh juices as opposed to commercially-bottled products. The goal of detoxing the body is to remove unwanted debris. These efforts are quickly nullified when the juice is full of additives, dyes, extra sugar, artificial flavors, colors, and preservatives. As a guideline, fresh is better than processed and organic is better than inorganic.
Before starting any detoxification program, it is wise to consult a physician for a full check-up. Fruit contains sugar. When the juice is consumed, sugar is quickly released into the bloodstream. If diabetes or obesity is a factor, then detoxing with fruit juice is not a sensible option. If one is taking certain medications, then drinking pomegranate juice may not be permitted. With a doctor’s supervision, however, pomegranate juice does not have to be ruled out altogether. Some may recommend that the juice be taken in smaller amounts and diluted with water.
In summary, detoxing the body with pomegranate juice may help reduce cholesterol, improve blood flow to the heart and brain, reduce blood pressure, boost the immune system, and reduce inflammation in the body. With medical supervision, the health benefits of pomegranate juice may still be realized.
References:
Allane, F. (2011, September 14). What Juices Are Good for a Detox Diet? Retrieved March 12, 2012, from Livestrong.com: http://www.livestrong.com/article/543522-what-juices-are-good-for-a-detox-diet/
Leo Galland, M. (2011, September 6). Big Benefits of Pomegranate Juice. Retrieved March 12, 2012 , from Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/leo-galland-md/pomegranate-juice-health-benefits_b_946853.html
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