Pomegranate contains high levels of polyphenols and antioxidants, which can confer many health benefits. According to an article by Dr. Thomas Behrenbeck published on the MayoClinic.com website, pomegranate has the potential to block or inhibit arterial hardening by reducing the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries and by helping to maintain good blood circulation to all the organs in the body. The fruit can also confer cardiovascular benefits. Always consult a medical doctor before you start herbal therapies or supplementation.
Step 1
Drink pomegranate juice to increase ocular blood flow in the eyes. A 2004 article in the medical journal "Clinical Nutrition" outlined a study in which patients with thickening of the carotid arteries due to cholesterol deposition showed significant reduction in the artery walls when placed on a daily intake of pomegranate juice. The reduction in the artery walls increased systemic blood flow throughout the body, which helped to reduce blood pressure and the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins, or LDL cholesterol. Buy pomegranate juice that has reduce sugar content or use a concentrated powder formulation and add it to alkaline water to increase the health benefits. Consult a medical doctor if you plan to start supplementation or alternative therapies.
Step 2
Eat organic pomegranate fruits or take them as supplements. Pomegranate contains high amounts of antioxidants, such as, polyphenols, which protect cells from oxidative damage and confer anti-inflammatory benefits. These effects will help improve ocular blood flow. The fruit is high in vitamin C, providing 40 percent of the daily recommended requirements. According to the Office of Dietary Supplements, vitamin C helps to improve blood flow to the eyes and helps protect against vision problems, such as macular degeneration.
Step 3
Start pomegranate juicing using fresh organic fruits and extract the juice.from the seeds and the skin. An article published by the "Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences" in 2005 concluded that pomegranate can reduce atherosclerosis and decrease stress in arteries by the production of nitric oxide, which allows arteries and capillaries to remain open and improve blood flow to all organs including the eye.
Tips and Warnings
- Drink plenty of water each day to avoid dehydration and expel toxins from the body.
- Always consult your medical doctor if you plan to start herbal therapies, alternative treatments or supplementation, especially if you are taking prescription medications. Consult with a professional licensed dietitian, nutritionists or herbalist for recommendations or advice for new herbal therapies or diets.
Things You'll Need
- Pomegranate fruit
- Pomegranate juice
- Water
References
- "Clinical Nutrition"; Pomegranate juice consumption for 3 years by patients with carotid artery stenosis reduces common carotid intima-media thickness, blood pressure and LDL oxidation; Aviram M et al; June 2004
- MayoClinic.com; Can Drinking Pomegranate Juice Help Lower My Cholesterol?; Thomas Behrenbeck, M.D.; December 2009
- Office of Dietary Supplements: Vitamin C
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Pomegranate
- Articles of Health; Pomegranates May Clear Clogged Arteries; Robert O. Young D.Sc., Ph.D.; June 2007
