Two new studies have been published this week that illustrate the potential health benefits of pomegranate consumption.
In the first study, a test tube was filled with matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs), compounds that degrade collagen and may potentially contribute to arthritis or ailments of the skin. When pomegranate extract was added to the test tube, the MMP enzymes were inhibited.
Next, the pomegranate extract was given to rats, and markers of inflammation were shown to decrease. The authors concluded that pomegranate may potentially be effective at preventing arthritis or similar inflammatory diseases.
In the second study, rats were once again fed pomegranate extract. The researchers found that the supplement led to an increase in testosterone compared to the control group. The authors suggested that pomegranate consumption may help boost fertility.
Conclusions
As we all know, rat studies do not always lead to the same results that human studies do. Thus, it is impossible to say for certain that these effects would be the same in humans. Nonetheless, pomegranates provide many other benefits and are clearly a good choice for those who wish to eat healthily.
References
1 Jean-Gilles D, et al. Inhibitory effects of polyphenol punicalagin on type-II collagen degradation in vitro and inflammation in vivo. Chem Biol Interact. 2013 Sep;205(2):90-9.
2 Mansour SW, et al. Sensibility of male rats fertility against olive oil, Nigella sativa oil and pomegranate extract. Asian Pac J Trop Biomed. 2013 Jul;3(7):563-8.