Pomegranate has previously been linked to the prevention of heart disease and stress relief but now researchers from the Probelte Bio Labatory in Spain have found that the fruit juice also slows down the natural oxidation ('wear and tear') of DNA.
During the study, scientists used a potent new type of pomegranate extract including the skin, pith and seeds of the fruit. The 60 participants were asked to take the extract for 30 days in the form of a pill.
The results found a significant decrease in a marker associated with cell damage, that disrupts brain, muscle, liver and kidney functions, as well as causing ageing.
The decrease in the ageing DNA was unknown to scientists until this study was conducted and researchers say they are, "excited about this study". Talking about the findings, Dr. Sergio Streitenberger, head of research, says, "We believe the study demonstrates that regular consumption of this new pomegranate extract can slow down the process of DNA oxidation."
"We get old because we fall apart, cell by cell. One way to look at ageing is to think of it as rusting or oxidizing, a damaging process. The free radicals that oxidize our body's molecules include fats, heavy metals and numerous other chemical compounds we breathe, eat and drink.
"If free radicals reach the DNA of our cells, the damage is cumulative and significant. Being able to guard against this process would be a significant breakthrough," Dr. Streitenberger added.
The health benefits of pomegranate juice have been widely known for some time as it helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as being a great source of antioxidant.
Pomegranate contains phytochemicals that act as antioxidants to protect the lining of the arteries from damage, explains Dr. Gregg Schneider, a nutritionally oriented dentist and expert on alternative medicine. A 2005 study published in the Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences found that antioxidant-rich pomegranate juice stimulated the body’s production of nitric oxide, which helps keep blood flowing and arteries open.
Pomegranates are chock full of ellagic acid — the latest phytonutrient to enter the scene (although it's been quietly hanging out in berries, nuts, and pomegranates for millennia). In laboratory and animal studies, ellagic acid has been shown to inhibit cancer cell growth and deactivate cancer-causing compounds. To take advantage of these health properties, incorporate pomegranate seeds into smoothies or use them to top off a bowl of yogurt or cereal. Other foods rich in ellagic acid include raspberries, blackberries, strawberries, walnuts, pecans, cranberries, and grapes (red, black, purple).
- Pomegranate Nutrition Facts
Calories 72 - % Daily Value*
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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