Tasty Benefits!

In a recent magazine article on dark juices, which include the pure juice from the likes of pomegranate, grape and cranberry juice- I decided to try some of these juices myself.
My favorite blend, "Cran-Pomegranite" (first purchased at Wal-mart and now at Safeway when on sale) mixes only pure juice from cranberries and pomegranate into a yummy blend that I most enjoy chilled with 2 ice cubes.
After trying out the juice and getting both myself and my husband hooked, I decided to further research the health benefits of these two particular fruits- and their juices*

Cranberries:
"First of all, Cranberries are rich in phytochemicals – You probably heard the term on TV, but what does it do exactly? Phytochemicals do a lot of good stuff for the body. Cranberry juice is a good source of polyphenol antioxidants and phytochemicals, both of which are possible deterrents against cancer and disorders of the cardiovascular and immune systems. That's a lot of benefits coming from a small fruit.

Prevents urinary tract infection – Preservatives in food and beverages, along with poor hygiene, contribute to the rise in UTI cases these days. Cleanse by drinking a glass of unsweetened cranberry juice. Cranberry's anti-adhesion properties—or the proanthocyanidins minerals found in the fruit—help rinse the body of urinary tract infections caused by E. coli bacteria.

Reduces dental plaque – Unless you're drinking sweetened cranberry juice, this beverage has nothing but good news for the teeth and gums. Experts say cranberry juice inhibit the growth of mouth bacteria that causes plaque. So drink up. A healthy dose of cranberry juice ensures your teeth are fresh and clean all the time."

(this information was found on cranberryjuice.com)

Pomegranate:
I would be surprised if there is anyone left in the states who has not been exposed to one of the latest superfood trends- pomegranate juice. But what are the benefits of this beautiful, exotic fruit?

"Researchers report that they are rich in antioxidants that can keep bad LDL cholesterol from oxidizing (American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, May 2000). This degradation of LDL seems to be an initial step in the development of atherosclerosis. In addition, pomegranate juice, like aspirin, can help keep blood platelets from clumping together to form unwanted clots.

Does this make any difference clinically? More recent research has found that eight ounces of pomegranate juice daily for three months improved the amount of oxygen getting to the heart muscle of patients with coronary heart disease (American Journal of the College of Cardiology, Sept. 2005). Other researchers report that long-term consumption of pomegranate juice may help combat erectile dysfunction (Journal of Urology, July 2005).

Investigators are also excited about the possibility that pomegranate compounds might prevent prostate cancer or slow its growth. In mice, treatment with pomegranate extract delayed the development of tumors and improved survival (Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, Sept. 26, 2005). Other research reports suggest that pomegranate juice might help reduce the risk of breast cancer."

(this excerpt was found on healthcentral.com)

So, there you have it. Both of these "dark juices", while still tasty and sweet- have a lot to show off as far as health benefits are concerned. I highly recommend trading your own juice cocktail for one of these- health in a jar- superfoods!