Pomegranate - Super Fruit with Rich Antioxidant

What are pomegranates good for? 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.

Pomegranate juice tested higher in overall phenolic content and antioxidant activity than red wine, concord grape, blueberry and orange juices, a study found by Dr David Heber of the David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA said pomegranate juice ranked higher than other beverages that have recently found touted as containing superior levels of antioxidants such as acai juice and white and green teas. The antioxidant potency composite index of pomegranate juice was at least 20 percent greater than any other beverages included in the study.

Natural Choices to improve muscle performance

What is the best way to nurse muscle after a good work out session? Forget smelly rubs or ice packs, some of the best remedies are found in nature.

Ginger

Even wonder about the powerful and pungent aroma of ginger? It's due to its main active compound, gingerol, which besides being a natural air freshener is also a top-notch anti-inflammatory. Gingerols are believed to neutralize free radicals that can ignite inflammation and help reduce pain caused by muscle aches and joint pain.

Celery

The pale-green stalks are more than just party-platter garnishes. Wild celery contains the compound 3-n-butylphthalide (3nB). Initial studies have suggested celery extract containing 85% 3nB may minimize muscle and joint pain. Because they are rich in potassium and sodium, celery juice is embraced as an ideal post-workout tonic. It replenishes spent electrolytes, tones the vascular system and lowers blood pressure, all of which help support stressed muscle. Celery seeds anti-inflammatory properties also help quell muscle spasms.

Ginseng

There are two commonly used species of ginseng - Asian and American - and both appear to increase the strength and endurance and they help curb the effects of excessive physical stress. A 2005 study in The Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research suggests supplementing with ginseng can encourage muscles to train longer and improve performance. According to California State Polytechnic University, Michael T Liang, it is believed that ginseng's active ingredients, ginsenosides, help the muscle by delaying one's point of exhaustion.