Pomegranate Juice Consumption Research Articles

Development of Pomegranate Aloe Vera Juice: Pomalo

Abstract: Pomegranate juice is a good source of polyphenols and has good antioxidant potential, whereas, the studies on pomegranate juice have shown that it possesses antiatherogenic, antioxidant, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory properties. The literature also reported the major decrease in atherosclerotic lesion region in immune-deficient mice and intima media thickness in cardiac patients on medications, due to consumption of pomegranate juice. Whereas, in patients with type 2 diabetes, a reduction in lipid peroxidation was observed and in hypertensive patients, a systolic blood pressure and serum angiotensin converting enzyme activity was determined. Therefore, the study showed the potential cardioprotective advantages of pomegranate juice and suggests the inclusion of this juice in a diet for a healthy living. the composition of aloe vera and its role in development of functional foods. The colorless and watery gel-like consistency are the characteristics of aloe vera gel that makes it better option for blend beverages. The functional characteristics render aloe vera with broad range of application in the pharmaceutical, cosmetics and food sectors. The presence of antioxidants and hormones (auxins and gibberellins) in aloe vera, are responsible for preventing chronic diseases and wound healing properties by inducing the cell propagation, thus providing anti-inflammatory action, respectively. Saponins and salicylic acid present in it, provides antibacterial and antiseptic activity. The literature also reveals that emidine and aloin are the compounds present in aloe that act as antiviral, antibacterial and analgesic agent. Whereas, it also contains vitamins E, C and minerals such as, copper, selenium and zinc, along with enzyme brady kinase, fatty acids and sugar, essential and non-essential amino acids, 12 anthraquinones phenolic compounds. The most abundant monosaccharide and polysaccharides found in aloe vera are Mannose-6-phosphate, and glucomannans, respectively.

Characterisation of pomegranate juice polyphenols identifies oenothein B as an endothelium-dependent vasodilator and regulator of endothelial function that enhances actions of oligomeric procyanidins

Abstract Background Cardiovascular disease mortality is reduced in individuals with high daily consumption of dietary polyphenols. Optimal daily intakes, choice of polyphenol, and mechanism of action have yet to be fully defined. Pomegranate juice (PJ) reduces blood pressure and improves endothelial function. These effects are attributed to the high levels of polyphenols, primarily ellagitannins. Purpose The aims of these investigations were (1) to identify PJ polyphenol(s) that altered endothelial function and could potentially lower blood pressure, and (2) to compare these endothelial actions to oligomeric procyanidins (OPC) purified from apple polyphenol extracts. Methods PJ polyphenols were purified by Sephadex LH-20 chromatography and RP-HPLC, and identified by LC-MS/MS and NMR. Fractions were screened for biological activity using cultured bovine aortic endothelial cells by measuring the degree of inhibition of endothelin-1 synthesis. Endothelial actions were further assessed by measuring changes in intracellular Ca2+ using FLIPR Ca2+-6 assay, qRT-PCR (EDN1, eNOS and KLF2 mRNAs), and NO synthesis (nitrite). Results Six PJ polyphenols were isolated. These were identified as punicalin, four punicalagin isomers, and oenothein B (OTB, a cyclic dimeric ellagitannin; LC-MS [M-H]-= 1567.1). At concentrations ≤5 µg/ml only OTB inhibited ET-1 synthesis (IC50 1.5 µg/ml). The identity of OTB was confirmed by NMR, and by comparison with OTB purified from Epilobium species. Further characterisation of the actions of OTB on endothelial cells showed pre-incubation with 1.25, 2.5 and 5 µg/ml OTB increased binding of biotinylated-OPC by 1.7, 2.3 and 3.8 fold. Subsequent studies of the interactions between OTB and OPC showed synergistic effects for decreases in ET-1 synthesis, EDN1 mRNA, and increases in KLF2 mRNA, eNOS mRNA and NO release. The effect of combining OTB (1 µg/ml) and OPC (1 µg/ml) lasted for over 24 h (relative to control: ET-1 -57%, EDN1 mRNA -63%, eNOS mRNA +69%, KLF2 mRNA +356%), when individually these polyphenols no longer had any significant effect. Intracellular Ca2+ responses also showed synergistic interactions, however the profile of [Ca2+] changes for OTB and OPC alone differed, suggesting separate signalling pathways initiating these endothelial responses. Endothelium-dependent vasodilator effects of OTB were confirmed on isolated mouse aorta (EC50 0.27 µg/ml). Conclusions These effects of OTB may underlie previously reported decreases in blood pressure and improvements in endothelial function after pomegranate juice consumption. Detailed understanding of the mechanism of action of OTB, and its interactions with OPC could lead to new therapeutic modalities for treating endothelial dysfunction in a broad spectrum of people at risk of cardiovascular disease.

Fermentation of pomegranate juice by lactic acid bacteria and its biological effect on mice fed a high-fat diet

This study investigated the ability of Lactiplantibacillus paraplantarum CRL2051 and Lactiplantibacillus plantarum CRL2030, two lactic acid bacteria isolated from fruits, to ferment pomegranate juice to produce beverages with extended shelf life and functional properties. Lactic acid bacteria consumed glucose and fructose as carbon sources, producing mainly lactic acid. Both strains were initially grown in juice at 30 °C for 48 h, then refrigerated at 4 °C for 28 days. During fermentation and cold storage, the total phenolic content and antioxidant capacity were conserved in fermented pomegranate juices. The functionality studies of the fermented beverages administered to C57BL/6 mice fed a high-fat diet were evaluated over 6 weeks. Pomegranate juice supplementation led to a marked improvement in glucose and triglycerides serum profile, which decreased around 40% and up to 48%, respectively, and counteracted fat deposition and body weight gain. The high-fat diet treatment significantly incremented the aspartate aminotransferase activity in the liver, whereas fermented pomegranate juice consumption slightly reduced it. Liver histological changes associated with a high-fat diet were significantly reverted in juice-treated animals. Our findings evidenced the biological benefits of a novel functional beverage obtained by lactic fermentation of pomegranate juice; this functional drink may protect against weight gain, liver damage, and dyslipidemia induced by a high-fat diet consumption.

The effect of oral use of concentrated pomegranate juice by mothers on hyperbilirubinemia in neonates under phototherapy: A randomized clinical trial.

Hyperbilirubinemia is a common problem in neonates that causes hospitalization. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of concentrated pomegranate juice (CPJ) consumption by breastfeeding mothers on neonatal hyperbilirubinemia. In this open-labeled, add-on, randomized clinical trial, 86 breastfeeding mothers and their neonates were allocated into two groups. In the control group, neonates received phototherapy. Besides neonates' phototherapy in the intervention group, their mothers received CPJ (1 tablespoon [15 g] three times a day) up to discharge. The bilirubin level was the primary outcome. The duration of phototherapy, the duration of hospital stay, and the need for exchange transfusions were secondary outcomes. CPJ reduced the bilirubin level of hospitalized neonates within 48 h after consumption (P = 0.048, standard mean difference = 0.648). It also resulted in reduced duration of hospital stay and faster discharge of the neonates. Furthermore, in 48 h after discharge, bilirubin was significantly lower in the CPJ group (P = 0.003, partial eta squared = 0.123). Compared to the control group, consumption of CPJ by lactating mothers whose infants underwent phototherapy resulted in lower bilirubin levels, shorter hospital stay, and faster discharge.

The Effect of Pomegranate Juice and Sumac Consumption in the Treatment of Outpatients with COVID-19.

COVID-19, an epidemic of coronavirus infection, has become a major global threat. The coronavirus mainly targets the human respiratory system, followed by cytokine storm, and altered immune responses associated with disease progression and adverse outcomes. Sumac and pomegranate juice are rich in bioactive compounds, which potentially have antiviral activities. This study is aimed at investigating the effect of a diet based on the use of sumac and pomegranate juice on the treatment of outpatients with COVID-19. In this study, 182 outpatients with COVID-19 were randomly divided into two groups receiving a diet containing pomegranate juice and sumac along with standard treatment and the control group (group 2) receiving standard treatment. Consumption of a diet containing pomegranate juice and sumac in outpatients with COVID-19, who were receiving standard-of-care treatment, led to a significant decrease in fever, chills, cough, weakness, smell and taste disorders, shortness of breath, diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, and abdominal pain compared with outpatients with COVID-19 who received only standard treatment. Clinical trials of outpatients have limitations such as patients' resilience to post-COVID-19 follow-up. However, the use of pomegranate juice and sumac can be efficacious in reducing COVID-19 symptoms. This trial is registered with IRCT20190406043175N3.

Effect of Eight Weeks of Aerobic Exercise and Pomegranate Juice Consumption on miR-155, miR-21 and P53 in Men With Prostate Cancer

Objective Prostate cancer is the second leading cause of cancer mortality among men worldwide and in Iran. This study aims to assess the effect of eight weeks of aerobic training and consumption of pomegranate juice on some MicroRNAs and a tumor suppressor protein (P53) in men with prostate cancer. Methods This quasi-experimental study was conducted in 2021 on 40 men with prostate cancer with a mean age of 61 years who were randomly divided into four groups (10 indivituals): control, exercise, exercise + supplementation, and supplementation. Exercise groups performed aerobic exercises for eight weeks, three sessions per week, each for 60-90 minutes with an intensity of 50-70% of maximum heart rate. Supplementation groups consumed 100 cc of pomegranate juice for 8 weeks, three times per week. Blood samples were taken from the participants 48 hours before and after the implementation of the exercise protocol. Dependent t-test and one-way ANOVA with the least significant difference post hoc test were used to analyze the data, considering a significance level of P≤0.05. Results Eight weeks of aerobic exercise combined with consumption of pomegranate juice caused a significant decrease in serum levels of miR-21 (P= 0.001) and miR-155 (P= 0.001) and a significant increase in P53 protein level in men with prostate cancer.. Conclusion Aerobic exercise and consumption of pomegranate juice simultaneously can reduce miR-21 and miR-155 levels and increase the P53 protein level in men with prostate cancer.

The effect of aerobic training and pomegranate juice on serum levels of some microRNAs related to the oxidant/antioxidant system in women recovering from breast cancer

Background: Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers and the first leading cause of cancer death (25.5%) among women across the world. Oxidative stress and overproduction of free radicals are among the most important reasons for the progression of cancers. This study aimed to investigate the effect of eight weeks of aerobic exercise with pomegranate juice on Serum microRNAs levels related to the oxidant/antioxidant system of women recovering from breast cancer. Materials and Methods: In this semi-experimental study, 40 women recovering from breast cancer with a mean age of 42.45±1.95 were randomly assigned into four equal groups (n=10), including control, pomegranate juice, aerobic exercise, and aerobic-pomegranate. The aerobic and aerobic-pomegranate groups performed eight 60-90-min sessions of exercises three times a week with an intensity of 50% to 70% of the target heart rate. The pomegranate juice group received 100 cc of juice before each training session. Blood samples were collected 48 h before and after the intervention. Oncogenic microRNAs, such as miR-21 and miR-155, were assayed by RT-PCR. The obtained data were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, ANCOVA, and Bonferroni post hoc test at a significance level of P≤0/05. Results: In total, eight weeks of aerobic exercise with the consumption of pomegranate juice caused a significant decrease in miR-21 (P=0.001) and miR-155 (P=0.001) levels in women recovering from breast cancer, compared to the control group. Conclusion: Aerobic exercise and consumption of pomegranate juice simultaneously reduced oncogene microRNAs, such as miR-21 and miR-155, in women recovering from breast cancer.

Phytochemical screening of wild pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) juices from the market

The utilization of pomegranate (P. granatum L.) in various industries has recently increased. The consumption of pomegranate juice is highly recommended because of bioactive compounds that have a pro-health effect on the human body. The main aim of this study is phytochemical screening and comparison of pomegranate juices available at the Montenegrin market, prepared from whole fruits and arils of wild pomegranate. Besides the determination of basic juice parameters (pH, EC, TTA, and TSS), the quantification of sugars, organic acids, vitamin C, and phenolics was performed by high-performance liquid chromatography. It was found that juice is a rich, good source of flavan-3-ols (2650―9820 mg L−1), ellagitannins (2010–6420 mg L−1), and hydroxybenzoic acids (720―3390 mg L−1). The juices prepared from whole fruits in comparison to the ones from arils have lower pH and higher content of numerous phenolics. The ratio between certain parameters was very high, especially for: punicalin derivative 1 (8.8), ellagic acid, ellagic acid dihexoside, digalloyl-hexoside 1, gallagyl ester 1, gallic acid, ellagic acid galloyl hexoside, ellagitannin 5, digalloyl hexoside 2, ellagitannin 4 (4.4). A significant difference in the content was not found for some acids, sugars, and all anthocyanins, i.e., exactly for 39 compounds.

467 Maternal dietary supplementation with pomegranate juice during lactation reduces offspring brain inflammatory response in mice

Pomegranates are considered a potent natural antioxidant. We hypothesized that maternal over-the-counter pomegranate juice (POM) consumption during lactation would attenuate inflammation-induced offspring brain injury. Six pregnant mice gave birth naturally at term. Following delivery from day 1 to 5, all dams were provided with standard chow. Of which, three dams were provided with ad libitum access to water (WAT), and the other 3 with diluted (1:5) POM juice. Pups were randomized into three groups: Control (CON), intraperitoneal injection of normal saline (NS), or lipopolysaccharide (LPS) 100 μg/kg, and creating six groups by taking two pups from each dam to 6 pups in each group. Pups were sacrificed 4 hours following the injection, weighed, and the brains processed for further analyses. The serum’s protein level of IL6; The brain’s protein level of NFκB, neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), IL6, and TNFα, were determined by ELISA and Western blot. The offsprings’ weight on their 5th day of life in the POM arm was significantly lower compared to the WAT arm (FigA1). Serum IL6 levels in the POM-CON group were significantly increased compared to pups of the WAT-CON. LPS administration increased pups’ serum IL6 level to a greater degree in the POM than the WAT arm (FigA2). The pups’ brain protein levels of TNFα, IL6, and NFκB of the CON and NS groups of the POM arm were significantly increased compared to pups of the WAT arm. LPS significantly increased pups’ brain protein levels of TNFα IL6 and NFκB within the WAT groups. However, surprisingly, LPS significantly decreased pups’ brain inflammation in the POM group (FigB). A maternal enriched diet with POM during lactation led to low offspring weight and unexpectedly elevated baseline serum and brain inflammation markers. However, it attenuated offspring brain inflammation following LPS induced inflammation. These results suggest that reduced growth in POM offsprings might have contributed to the increased basal inflammation, while maternal POM consumption reduces offspring brain inflammatory response to LPS.View Large Image Figure ViewerDownload Hi-res image Download (PPT)

Short-Term Consumption of Pomegranate Juice Alleviates Some Metabolic Disturbances in Overweight Patients with Dyslipidemia.

Pomegranate juice (PJ) has potential positive effects in patients with metabolic disturbances due to a high content of polyphenols. The objective of this study was to evaluate effects of a 2-week consumption of dietary doses of PJ on blood pressure, lipid metabolism, and oxidative stress markers in overweight patients with dyslipidemia. Twenty-four patients, 8 males and 16 females, 40-60 years of age, with established overweight and dyslipidemia were randomly assigned into intervention group, who consumed 300 mL of PJ daily for 2 weeks, or control group. After 2 weeks of juice intake, intervention group had significantly lower diastolic blood pressure, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, aminotransferase, and activity of glutathione peroxidase. Furthermore, patients who consumed PJ had reduced percentage of docosahexaenoic acid (22:6n-3, DHA) in plasma phospholipids and increased estimated activity of stearoyl-CoA desaturase. In erythrocytes, we found a significant increase in the levels of dihomo-γ- linolenic acid (20:3n-6, DGLA) and DHA, as well as in estimated activity of Δ6 desaturase, and a decrease in estimated activity of Δ5 desaturase. These results show that even a short-term consumption of dietary doses of PJ exerts beneficial effects and affects lipid metabolism in overweight patients with dyslipidemia.

The effect of aerobic exercise and pomegranate juice consumption on serum levels of estrogen, progesterone and P53 protein in women with breast cancer

Introduction: Breast cancer is the most common cancer and the leading cause of death due to cancer among women. This study was performed with aim to compare the effect of 8 weeks of aerobic exercise and pomegranate juice supplementation on serum levels of estrogen, progesterone and P53 protein in women with breast cancer. Methods: This quasi-experimental study was performed as pretest and posttest in 2019 on 40 women with breast cancer in Qom province. The subjects were randomly divided into four groups: control, pomegranate juice, aerobic exercise, and aerobic exercise + pomegranate juice consumption (n=10 in each group). The groups of aerobic exercise and aerobic exercise + pomegranate juice consumption performed aerobic exercise for 8 weeks and 3 sessions each week. Also, the groups of pomegranate juice consumption consumed 100 cc of pomegranate juice on the day of the training session fasting. 4 cc blood samples were taken from the participants 48 hours before and after the implementation of the protocol to evaluate the research variables. Data were analyzed by SPSS statistical software (version 20) and independent t-test and one-way analysis of variance. P<0.05 was considered statistically significant. Results: The results showed that 8 weeks of aerobic exercise significantly decreased serum levels of estrogen, progesterone (p <0.05) and significantly increased p53 protein levels (p <0.05) in women with breast cancer. According to the results of the study, estrogen and progesterone decreased in pomegranate juice consumption and aerobic exercise groups, but this decrease was not significant (p <0.05). The results also showed that consumption of pomegranate juice for eight weeks caused no significant decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels and a significant increase in p53 levels in women with breast cancer (p <0.05). Conclusion: Aerobic exercise + pomegranate juice consumption reduces the risk factors for breast cancer and increases the protein associated with p53 cell death in women with cancer.

Effects of Pomegranate Juice with and without Aerobic Training on Glycemic Control and Lipid Profile in Women with Type 2 Diabetes

Background and Aim: Type 2 diabetes is a common metabolic disease, which is associated with obesity and inactivity. Plant-based dietary patterns are recommended for the treatment of type 2 diabetes. On the other hand, the effect of aerobic training on the improvement of type 2 diabetes is also highly emphasized. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of 2-months of pomegranate juice consumption with and without aerobic training on the levels of HbA1c, fasting blood glucose (FBG), lipid profile in women with type 2 diabetes. Methods: In this study, 58 women with type 2 diabetes who were referred to Tehran Lorzadeh clinic were randomly divided into four groups: control, pomegranate juice, aerobic training, combined pomegranate juice with aerobic training. The aerobic training plan consisted of 2-months and three times per week (training time from 20 minutes to 45 minutes). Three days before and after this interventional study, serum levels of FBG, total cholesterol (TC), triacylglyceride (TG), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) were measured by colorimetric methods. Results: Results showed that combined pomegranate extract consumption with aerobic exercise training significantly decreased the levels of FBG, HbA1c, and TG in women with type 2 diabetes compared to the control group after the intervention (P<0.01), while TC, LDL-c, and BMI remained unchanged. There was no statistically significant difference in the levels of TC, TG, HbA1c, and FBG in pomegranate extract or aerobic training groups compared to the control group after intervention. Conclusion: The results of this study indicate that combined pomegranate juice with aerobic training has beneficial effects on type 2 diabetes and could be recommended in their therapeutic program. *Corresponding Author: Fariba Mohammadi Tahroodi; Email: faribamt93@yahoo.com Please cite this article as: Vaziri Javid R, Safizadeh F, Rastegary M, Nabi Afjadi M, Khonakdar-Tarsi A, Zare Z, Zarpou S, Mohammadi Tahroodi F. Effects of Pomegranate Juice with and without Aerobic Training on Glycemic Control and Lipid Profile in Women with Type 2 Diabetes. Arch Med Lab Sci. 2020;6.1-6 (e17). https://doi.org/10.22037/amls.v6.30381

The effect of concentrated pomegranate juice consumption on risk factors of cardiovascular diseases in women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A randomized controlled trial.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is associated with insulin resistance and dyslipidemia. Pomegranate juice is a rich source of polyphenols that may improve blood pressure, lipid profile, and other risk factors of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). No study has examined the effects of pomegranate juice consumption on the clinical outcomes of PCOS. This study aimed to examine the effects of concentrated pomegranate juice (CPJ) consumption on risk factors of CVDs in women with PCOS. In this randomized clinical trial, 44 PCOS women with an age range of 18-40 years and body mass index (BMI) of ≥25 kg/m2 were recruited. They were randomly allocated to the CPJ (n = 22) and control (n = 22) groups, and followed for 8 weeks. Anthropometric measures, blood pressure, and biochemical parameters were measured at baseline and at the end of the trial. Compared with the control group, CPJ consumption significantly reduced systolic (-9.77 ± 1.46 vs. -1.18 ± 1.46 mmHg, p < .001) and diastolic (-3.87 ± 1.36 vs. 0.30 ± 1.36 mmHg, p = .05) blood pressure, serum triglyceride (TG) levels (-7.82 ± 6.32 vs. 16.63 ± 6.32 mg/dl, p = .01), TG/high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio (-0.39 ± 0.24 vs. 0.66 ± 0.24, p = .007), and increased serum concentrations of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) (6.03 ± 2.47 vs. -1.98 ± 2.47 mg/dl, p = .04) and HDL-C (1.93 ± 1.10 vs. -1.78 ± 1.10 mg/dl, p = .03). These findings were obtained after taking baseline measurements and potential confounders into account. No adverse event or complication was reported due to CPJ consumption throughout the study. We found that CPJ consumption has a beneficial effect on blood pressure, serum concentrations of TG and HDL-C, and TG/HDL-C ratio in women with PCOS. However, this juice could increase serum LDL-C levels in these patients. This trial was registered at www.irct.ir as IRCT20191109045383N1.

Randomized placebo-controlled study of the memory effects of pomegranate juice in middle-aged and older adults

Antioxidant nutrients such as the polyphenols in pomegranate juice may prevent neuronal damage from the free radicals produced during normal metabolism. Previous research in animals and a short-term clinical trial in middle-aged and older adults support the potential memory benefits of pomegranate juice; however, the long-term effects of pomegranate juice consumption on cognition have not been studied. In this study, we investigated the long-term effect of pomegranate juice on memory in nondemented middle-aged and older adults. We performed a 12-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of pomegranate juice in middle-aged and older adults. Two hundred and sixty-one subjects (aged 50-75 y) were randomly assigned to consume pomegranate juice [8 oz (236.5 mL) per day] or a placebo drink (8 oz, matched constituents of pomegranate juice except for pomegranate polyphenols). Memory measures [Brief Visuospatial Memory Test-Revised (BVMT-R) and Buschke Selective Reminding Test (SRT)] were assessed at 6 and 12 mo and analyzed using a mixed-effects general linear model. Twenty-eight subjects in the pomegranate juice group and 33 subjects in the placebo group dropped out before completing the study. Baseline variables in the 98 pomegranate juice and 102 placebo group subjects who completed the study did not differ significantly. Group by time interaction was statistically significant for BVMT-R Learning (F[2, 257]=5.90, P=0.003; between-group effect size [ES]=0.45): the change within the pomegranate group was not significant (ES=0.15), whereas the placebo group showed a significant decline (ES=-0.35). Changes in the other BVMT-R scores as well as the SRT measures were not significantly different between groups. Daily consumption of pomegranate juice may stabilize the ability to learn visual information over a 12-mo period. This trial was registered at clinicaltrials.gov as NCT02093130.

Pomegranate juice improves cardiometabolic risk factors, biomarkers of oxidative stress and inflammation in hemodialysis patients: a randomized crossover trial.

Pomegranate has antioxidant, cardioprotective and anti-inflammatory properties. We designed a crossover study aimed at determining if consumption of pomegranate juice (PJ) improves lipid profile and oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers of hemodialysis patients. Forty-one hemodialysis patients were randomly assigned to one of two groups: PJ-treated group receiving 100 mL of natural PJ immediately after their dialysis session three times a week and the control group receiving the usual care. After 8 weeks, a 4-week washout period was established and then the role of the groups was exchanged. Lipid profile, blood pressure and oxidative and inflammatory biomarkers were measured before and after each sequence. Based on the results of intention-to-treat analysis, triglycerides were decreased in PJ condition and increased in the controls. Conversely, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol was increased in PJ and decreased in the control group. Total and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol did not significantly change in either condition. Systolic and diastolic blood pressure significantly decreased in PJ condition. Total antioxidant capacity increased in PJ condition (P < 0.001) and decreased in the controls (P < 0.001). Conversely, malondialdehyde and interleukin-6 decreased in PJ (P < 0.001) and increased in the control group (P ≤ 0.001). The changes of these biomarkers were significantly different between the two conditions. Eight-week PJ consumption showed beneficial effects on blood pressure, serum triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, oxidative stress and inflammation in hemodialysis patients. © 2019 Society of Chemical Industry.

Pomegranate Juice and Extract Consumption Increases the Resistance to UVB-induced Erythema and Changes the Skin Microbiome in Healthy Women: a Randomized Controlled Trial

In vitro and animal studies have demonstrated that topical application and oral consumption of pomegranate reduces UVB-induced skin damage. We therefore investigated if oral pomegranate consumption will reduce photodamage from UVB irradiation and alter the composition of the skin microbiota in a randomized controlled, parallel, three-arm, open label study. Seventy-four female participants (30–45 years) with Fitzpatrick skin type II-IV were randomly assigned (1:1:1) to 1000 mg of pomegranate extract (PomX), 8 oz of pomegranate juice (PomJ) or placebo for 12 weeks. Minimal erythema dose (MED) and melanin index were determined using a cutometer (mexameter probe). Skin microbiota was determined using 16S rRNA sequencing. The MED was significantly increased in the PomX and PomJ group compared to placebo. There was no significant difference on phylum, but on family and genus level bacterial composition of skin samples collected at baseline and after 12 week intervention showed significant differences between PomJ, PomX and placebo. Members of the Methylobacteriaceae family contain pigments absorbing UV irradiation and might contribute to UVB skin protection. However, we were not able to establish a direct correlation between increased MED and bacterial abundance. In summary daily oral pomegranate consumption may lead to enhanced protection from UV photodamage.

Pomegranate juice to reduce fecal calprotectin levels in inflammatory bowel disease patients with a high risk of clinical relapse: Study protocol for a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundInflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is a chronic condition characterized by recurrent episodes of intestinal inflammation and is thought to be related to an autoimmune reaction to genetic and environmental factors. Although evidence indicates that a polyphenolic-rich diet plays an important role in modulating aspects of chronic inflammation, few studies have focused on the effect of ellagitannin (ET)-rich food consumption on long-term remission maintenance in IBD patients with a high risk of clinical relapse. Therefore, we hypothesize that supplementation with a pomegranate juice, a naturally rich source of ETs, could significantly modulate the markers of mucosal and systemic inflammation relative to a control group receiving a placebo.Methods/designThis double-blind, randomized controlled trial includes patients with IBD involving the colorectum who have been in stable therapy for at least the three previous months and have a high risk of clinical relapse. Participants are randomly allocated to one of two groups: active supplementation (125 mL of cv. Wonderful pomegranate juice) or placebo (125 mL) taken twice daily for 12 weeks. The primary outcome is changes in the fecal neutrophil-derived protein calprotectin, a surrogate marker of mucosal improvement, between the two groups from baseline to 12 weeks later. The secondary outcomes include transcriptomic changes in peripheral blood mononuclear cells and intestinal biopsies and changes in circulating inflammatory markers and trimethylamine-N-oxide levels. Pomegranate ET-derived metabolites are identified and quantified in plasma and urine samples.DiscussionThe results will provide information on the possible reduction of fecal calprotectin levels following the consumption of pomegranate juice. The findings will also show the in vivo metabolism of pomegranate ETs. Finally, the effect of 12-week pomegranate juice consumption on local and systemic inflammatory markers will be elucidated, which will likely provide additional insights into the maintenance of remission in IBD patients.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03000101. Registered on 21 December 2016.

Ellagic Acid Bioavailability and Metabolism After Single Dose Consumption of Pure Ellagic Acid versus Pomegranate Juice (P06-031-19)

ObjectivesIn the GI tract, Pomegranates (Pom) ellagitannins undergo hydrolysis to ellagic acid (EA) and are further metabolized into urolithins by the gut microbiota. Both EA and UA have significant health benefits. EA is also available as dietary supplement. We aimed to compare the bioavailability of EA and its biotransformation to UA between pure EA and Pom juice (PomJ). Methods17 healthy male participants were randomly assigned to take a single dose of 8 oz of PomJ or 500 mg of EA, followed by 2-week washout, and crossover to the other intervention. We collected blood prior and 1 and 2 h after consumption of EA or PomJ and urine for 24hours. Plasma concentration of EA was measured using HPLC. Urinary EA metabolites (DMEAG and UAG) were determined by LC/MS and normalized to urine creatinine levels. Circulating MCP1, insulin and leptin were analyzed using the multiplex human cytokine panel (Millipore). ResultsThere was no difference in plasma EA concentration after administration of PomJ versus 500 mg EA. Urinary DMEAG, normalized to creatinine, was significantly higher after PomJ compared to EA intake (PomJ: 0.11 + 0.02; EA: 0.05 + 0.01 μg/mg; P < 0.05). Urinary UAG was present in 13 participants and 4 out of 17 subjects did not have the ability to convert EA to UA after consumption of either pure EA vs. PomJ. Blood glucose at 2 hrs decreased –5.53% ± 1.61% (p = 0.01) and insulin at 1 hr increased 95.74% ± 37.44% (p < 0.05) after PomJ consumption compared to baseline. Blood MCP1 decreased –15.51% ± 6.11% (p < 0.05) 2 hrs after PomJ, and leptin was significantly decreased (PomJ: –17.13% ± 4.64% (p < 0.00); EA: –18.80% ± 2.93% (p < 0.00)) 2 hrs after PomJ and EA consumption. Conclusions8 oz of PomJ provides an equivalent source of EA and microbial mediated biotransformation of EA to UA compared to 500 mg EA supplement. However, an increase in phase II metabolism of EA and acute effect on plasma MCP1 was only observed following PomJ consumption. Funding SourcesCenter for Human Nutrition, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles.

Effect of Pomegranate Juice Consumption on Plasma Indole Propionic Acid, a Bacterial-Derived Tryptophan Metabolite (P20-003-19)

ObjectivesThe gut microbiota produces numerous metabolites from dietary nutrients that can circulate systemically and influence the host physiology. Bacterial enzymes convert dietary L-tryptophan (Trp) to indole, from which several metabolites can be formed by mammalian and bacterial enzymes. The bacterial metabolite indole propionic acid (IPA) is anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective and has been linked to a lower risk of type 2 diabetes. Little is known about which bacteria are responsible for IPA formation. Pomegranates (Pom) are excellent sources of ellagitannins (ET) and ellagic acid (EA) with prebiotic function. Therefore, it was our hypothesis that long-term Pom consumption will change bacterial Trp metabolite formation. MethodsWe performed a 12-month, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial of pomegranate juice in middle-aged and older, healthy adults. Nineteen subjects (ages 50–60) were randomized to consume 8 oz of pomegranate juice (the Wonderful Company, LLC) (N = 11) or placebo drink (N = 8) every day. The placebo drink contained high fructose corn syrup, Pom essence and flavor and FD&C Red#40, Blue#1. Stool samples were collected at baseline and after 1 year of Pom J consumption. Bacterial composition was determined using 16S rRNA microbiome sequencing. Plasma IPA concentrations were determined by HPLC. Correlation between fecal bacterial content and plasma IPA was evaluated in all samples using Spearman’s analysis. ResultsThe IPA was significantly reduced in the placebo group (P = 0.017), while there was no change in the Pom J group (P = 0.458). The change in plasma IPA during one year of Pom J compared to placebo drink consumption was significantly different (P = 0.028). At 12 months, plasma IPA concentration was significantly positively correlated with the relative proportion of Roseburia (0.57), Lachnospira (0.53) in the phylum Firmicutes; Sutterella (0.63) in the phylum Proteobacterium and Collinsella (0.46) in the phylum Actinobacteria. A significant negative correlation was observed with the relative proportion of Campylobacteraceae (−0.46). ConclusionsFormation of IPA associated with a microbial profile supported by Pom J consumption might contribute to the cardiovascular health benefits of Pom. Funding SourcesSupported by Center for Human Nutrition, UCLA.

Effects of pomegranate juice consumption on blood pressure and lipid profile in patients with type 2 diabetes: A single-blind randomized clinical trial

Pomegranate juice (PJ) has abundant anti-oxidative polyphenolic compounds which are assumed to have cardioprotective effects such as hypotensive properties. This study aimed to investigate the effects of PJ consumption on blood pressure and lipid profile F variables in patients with type 2 diabetes. Sixty subjects (30 in intervention group and 30 in control group) were recruited in this single-blind placebo-controlled randomized clinical trial. The volunteers were randomly assigned to one of two groups. Treatment group consumed 200 ml/day PJ for 6 weeks, while control group received no intervention. Systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) and triglyceride (TG) concentrations were measured following 12-14h of fasting at baseline and at the end of the study. After 6 weeks of intervention, SBP (13.5±1.5mmHg vs. 12.3±2.5, P<0.001) and DBP (7.7±1.6 vs. 7.2±1.6mmHg, P<0.05) significantly decreased in the intervention group. Similarly, SBP and DBP in the intervention group were significantly lower than the control group after intervention (P<0.02 and P<0.03, respectively). At the end of the intervention, TC, TG, LDL-C and HDL-C did not significantly differ between the intervention group and the control group however, TC and LDL-C decreased significantly compared to pre-trial values within the intervention group. It is concluded that PJ consumption could decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressure in patients with diabetes while having no effect on lipid profile. A more definitive result will be obtained if future studies could conducted in hyperlipidemic individuals who might be more prone to respond to the lipid-lowering effects.