SophistiKat's Drink of the Month

February is "American Heart Month" so with keeping out health and HEARTS in mind we choose this delicious cocktail for you pleasure along with *11* benefits to adding Pomegranate Juice to your diet.

*Pomegranate Cocktail*

Makes: 3 (about 4-ounce) servings

Ingredients  

Coarse colored or regular sugar (optional)

1  Cup Ice Cubes

1/2  Cup Pomegranate Juice

1/2  Cup Vodka

Directions:

If desired, dip rims of three chilled martini glasses in water and then in sugar. In a cocktail shaker, combine ice cubes, pomegranate juice, and vodka. Cover and shake well to mix. Strain into martini glasses.

*11* Benefits to Adding Pomegranate Juice to Your Diet

1. Fights Breast Cancer

Studies in Israel show that pomegranate juice destroys breast cancer cells while leaving healthy cells alone. It may also prevent breast cancer cells from forming.

2. Lung Cancer Prevention

Studies in mice show that pomegranate juice may inhibit the development of lung cancer.

3. Slows Prostate Cancer

It slowed the growth of prostate cancer in mice.

4. Keeps PSA Levels Stable

In a study of 50 men who had undergone treatment for prostate cancer, 8 ounces of pomegranate juice per day kept PSA levels stable, reducing the need for further treatment such as chemotherapy or hormone therapy.

5. Protects the Neonatal Brain

Studies show that maternal consumption of pomegranate juice may protect the neonatal brain from damage after injury.

7. Prevention of Osteoarthritis

Several studies indicate that pomegranate juice may prevent cartilage deterioration.

8. Protects the Arteries

It prevents plaque from building up in the arteries and may reverse previous plaque buildup.

9. Alzheimer's Disease Prevention

It may prevent and slow Alzheimer's disease. In one study, mice bred to develop Alzheimer's disease were given pomegranate juice. They accumulated significantly less amyloid plaque than control mice and they performed mental tasks better.

10. Lowers Cholesterol

It lowers LDL (bad cholesterol) and raises HDL (good cholesterol).

11. Lowers Blood Pressure

One study showed that drinking 1.7 ounces of pomegranate juice per day lowered systolic blood pressure by as much as 5 percent.

Dental Protection

Research suggests that drinking pomegranate juice may be a natural way to prevent dental plaque.