Have you ever noticed that something that seems relatively obscure suddenly reaches celebrity status because of the media? That is exactly what happened with these ruby-red fruits called pomegranates. Many people in the western world didn't even know they existed; then one day, news exploded all over televisions, radios, and the internet about the many pomegranate health benefits, and how we would all live longer if we incorporated them into our daily diets. Seemingly overnight they were showing up in grocery stores across North America. These orange-sized fruits were now celebrities and people were flocking to the stores in droves to get some.

It seems North America has been slow to find out what Asians and Middle-Easterners have known for centuries: these fruits have numerous health benefits and should be included every day as part of a healthy lifestyle; forget the apple - there's a new fruit in town. In fact, it is so powerful and filled with antioxidants that it is commonly referred to as a super-fruit. Here are ten benefits you need to know about:

1. Fights free radicals: these come into our bodies from all kinds of outside sources and these fruits help fight and get rid of these nasty devils.

2. Helps prevent osteoarthritis: Several studies show that it can help slow the deterioration of cartilage.

3. May prevent Alzheimer's disease: Studies in mice show that these fruits can slow or prevent the onset of this debilitating disease.

4. Reduces bad cholesterol levels: it can help lower the bad levels, and raise the good.

5. Helps lower blood pressure: Drinking just 1.5 ounces per day could lower levels by more than 5%.

6. Helps prevent dental plaque: This doesn't mean you can stop brushing your teeth; but you will notice less plaque.

7. Helps prevent prostate cancer: Mice showed slowed prostate growth in several studies.

8. Helps prevent lung cancer: Again, studies in mice showed slow lung cancer growth.

9. Will help your nails and hair grow: It just makes sense that eating a healthy diet will have you looking and feeling healthy and strong.

10. Helps with neonatal brain function: Will help with brain function while development is occurring.

The pomegranate health benefits far outweigh the difficulty in eating them. They can be messy, and rough to cut through, but when you live a life that is full of vitality and energy, a few minutes of inconvenience is well worth the effort.