Pomegranates to Help Fight Breast Cancer

Pomegranates have received a lot of attention lately because of their anti-oxidant power. Studies have shown that pomegranate can keep LDL cholesterol from oxidizing which reduces the risk of plaque building up in arteries. They also have an anti-platelet effect that keeps blood from clotting inappropriately. Pomegranates also can help lower blood pressure. Now a new study suggests that pomegranates may help fight breast cancer. Scientists at the City of Hope research program have found that compounds plentiful in pomegranates inhibit aromatase. This enzyme is one of the tools our bodies use to build estrogen. Aromatase inhibitors such as Femara or Arimidex have become an important part of the breast cancer armamentarium. While no one is suggesting that pomegranates would replace these life-saving drugs, enjoying more pomegranates might be a tasty way to reduce the risk of breast cancer spreading.
[Cancer Prevention Research, Jan 2010]