A type of antioxidant found in pomegranates may contribute to prostate health, according to a study by researchers at the University of California at Los Angeles. Antioxidants known as ellagitannins and their metabolites accumulated in the prostates of mice in this laboratory study. The researchers then grafted prostate cancer cells onto mice whose immune systems had been deliberately hampered. One group of mice was then treated with ellagatannins and their metabolites. The treated mice were found to have significantly less tumor growth than mice in the control group.

Pomegranates have been shown to be rich in antioxidants, and increased consumption has been correlated with improved cardiovascular health. Additional claims have also been made that consuming pomegranates can slow the loss of cartilage caused by arthritis while also helping to prevent prostate cancer. These researchers have also previously demonstrated that consumption of pomegranate juice by prostate cancer patients can lead to an increased doubling time for prostate specific antigen, a primary indicator of prostate cancer risk.

Researchers hope that pomegranates may one day be developed into cancer treatment, but cautioned that further studies are necessary.. In particular, clinical trials on humans must be introduced before any treatment can be developed, as the fruit may function differently in a human body than in a mouse or a lab. Consumer health advocate Mike Adams adds, "Medical scientists don't need to waste time developing a treatment based on pomegranates. Mother Nature has already provided the treatment.. simply eat more pomegranate seeds!" It has been noted for many years by leading researchers that good treatments are available in our grocery stores if not in our pharmacies.

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