Is Pomegranate the New ‘Superfood’?

Pomegranate isn’t just a delicious an juicy fruit; it may also offer some surprising health benefits.

According to a 2014 study, pomegranate is a superfood because of its high concentrations of natural compounds that work to slow own the progression of certain neurological diseases like Parkinson’s an Alzheimer’s.  Furthermore, there’s new evidence suggesting that pomegranate improves muscle strength and endurance, which is just one more reason to make this fruit a part of your regular diet.

Researchers say that our cells use a process called mitophagy to restore inactive cells back to their normal level. During this process, the inactive cells are essentially recycled so they can be used by the body again. As we age, however, this process slows down and becomes less effective at accomplishing its intended purpose.

But there are ways to improve the body’s mitophagy and subsequently improve cellular strength and overall function: eat more pomegranate. Researchers from the Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) found a specific compound within pomegranate to improve mitophagy function. This compound, known as urolithin, has the ability to restore mitophagy in cells where it had previously become inactive.

“It’s a completely natural substance,” says Patrick Aebischer, a nueroscientist and the co-author of the new study. “It’s effect is powerful and measurable.”

Of course, pomegranate has other beneficial nutrients and compounds that shouldn’t be overlooked, including antioxidants. It’s often touted as being one of the most antioxidant-rich foods on the planet, which is pretty impressive to say the least. So, how does these antioxidants benefit the body? Antioxidants are natural compounds that protect against cellular damage. They neutralize free radicals so they are unable to destroy cells; thus, reducing the risk of disease and illness.

Furthermore, pomegranates contain a healthy dose of vitamin C, which may improve the immune system functions. And when the immune system performs better, again you are better protected against disease and illness. The bottom line is that pomegranate is a powerful, beneficial fruit that lives up to its title of superfood. Make it a part of your regular diet to reap the benefits listed here and more.

This study was published in the journal Nature Medicine.

Contact Rodney Dunetz, AP, DOM, Dipl.Ac. (Acupuncture Physician, Doctor of Oriental Medicine and Nationally Board Certified “Diplomate in Acupuncture” at (561) 789-9558 to learn how you can get back on track to better health today!