Lower Inflammation with Pomegranate
Video by Dr. Justin Thompson
Pomegranates are renowned for their exceptional health benefits, making them a delicious and nutritious addition to any smoothie! Bursting with antioxidants, these crimson jewels are a powerhouse of protective compounds that help combat oxidative stress and reduce inflammation in the body. With less inflammation in the body, we can prevent most chronic diseases! That is why ensuring you getting enough fruits and veggies is so important. It’s easy to do when including pomegranates. Packed with vitamin C, pomegranates support a robust immune system, promoting overall wellness. The fruit’s high fiber content aids digestion, regulates blood sugar levels, and promotes a healthy gut microbiome. Additionally, pomegranates contain potent anti-cancer properties, with studies suggesting their potential in inhibiting the growth of certain types of cancer cells. Regular consumption of pomegranate has also been linked to improved heart health, as it may help lower blood pressure, reduce cholesterol levels, and enhance arterial function. Furthermore, its nutritional profile contributes to radiant skin, improved cognitive function, and even potential anti-aging effects. Embracing the vibrant and tangy pomegranate can be a delightful way to support optimal health and well-being. Try out this smoothie recipe and let us know what you think! Listed below is supported research laying out the mentioned benefits!
Research
“Punicalagin is the major active component of pomegranate extracts. In this review we have focused on recent studies into the therapeutic effects of punicalagin on inflammation-associated chronic diseases and the regulatory roles in NF-κB, MAPK, IL-6/JAK/STAT3 and PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathways. We have concluded that punicalagin may be a promising therapeutic compound in preventing and treating inflammation-associated chronic diseases, although further clinical studies are required.”
“Pomegranate possesses antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, anti-proliferative, anti-angiogenic, anti-invasive, and anti-metastatic properties, and induces apoptosis.”
“Other studied parameters did not change significantly. The results of this study suggest protective effects of pomegranate juice against myocardial ischemia and reperfusion injury.”
“Fruits can prevent CVDs or facilitate the restoration of morphology and functions of heart and vessels after injury. The involved mechanisms included protecting vascular endothelial function, regulating lipids metabolism, modulating blood pressure, inhibiting platelet’s function, alleviating ischemia/reperfusion injury, suppressing thrombosis, reducing oxidative stress, and attenuating inflammation.”
Recipe
- 2-3 generous handful of fresh or frozen spinach (can sub with arugula or kale)
- 1-2 cups of Pomegranate (quantity based on desired sweetness)
- 1 whole fresh or frozen avocado
- 1-2 whole frozen banana (quantity based on desired consistency)
- 2-3 cups of water or almond/coconut milk (optional based on desired flavor and consistency)
- Daily dose of essential Nutrients
- 1 scoop of your favorite protein powder (optional)
References
Jayan L, Priyadharsini N, Ramya R, Rajkumar K. Evaluation of antifungal activity of mint, pomegranate and coriander on fluconazole-resistant Candida glabrata. J Oral Maxillofac Pathol. 2020 Sep-Dec;24(3):517-522. doi: 10.4103/jomfp.JOMFP_355_19. Epub 2021 Jan 9. PMID: 33967490; PMCID: PMC8083412.
Khwairakpam AD, Bordoloi D, Thakur KK, Monisha J, Arfuso F, Sethi G, Mishra S, Kumar AP, Kunnumakkara AB. Possible use of Punica granatum (Pomegranate) in cancer therapy. Pharmacol Res. 2018 Jul;133:53-64. doi: 10.1016/j.phrs.2018.04.021. Epub 2018 May 2. PMID: 29729421.
Razani Z, Dastani M, Kazerani HR. Cardioprotective Effects of Pomegranate (Punica granatum) Juice in Patients with Ischemic Heart Disease. Phytother Res. 2017 Nov;31(11):1731-1738. doi: 10.1002/ptr.5901. Epub 2017 Sep 15. PMID: 28913846.
Xu J, Cao K, Liu X, Zhao L, Feng Z, Liu J. Punicalagin Regulates Signaling Pathways in Inflammation-Associated Chronic Diseases. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021 Dec 24;11(1):29. doi: 10.3390/antiox11010029. PMID: 35052533; PMCID: PMC8773334.
Zhao CN, Meng X, Li Y, Li S, Liu Q, Tang GY, Li HB. Fruits for Prevention and Treatment of Cardiovascular Diseases. Nutrients. 2017 Jun 13;9(6):598. doi: 10.3390/nu9060598. PMID: 28608832; PMCID: PMC5490577.
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We love to help our patients in St. Louis Park stay healthy. We are here to relieve back pain, neck pain and headaches while also teaching about how our diet and stress effects our over all health. By improving these areas of our lives we can become healthier, stay out of pain and reduce risk of diseases. Our Chiropractors located in the West End, near the corner of MN-100 S & Lake Rd./Westside Dr., want to help you stay healthy and out of pain!