You might be surprised to learn that researchers have been studying pomegranate juice and brain function for quite some time. In introducing their study in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition (Jan. 2020), researchers provide this background suggesting pomegranate juice is good for your brain:
“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.”
A Long-Term Study: Pomegranate Is Good for Your Brain:
The investigators from the David Geffen School of Medicine at the University of California, Los Angeles and the Pacific Brain Health Center note that forgetfulness and loss of memory may be caused in part by oxidative damage that leads to brain inflammation. They suggest that exercise, social interaction and a healthy diet could be beneficial.
In particular, these investigators note that:
“A promising line of research has focused on foods that contain properties beneficial to healthy brain functioning. Investigators have found that various nutrients such as curcumin, sage, vitamin D, ω-3 fatty acids, and antioxidant foods may help to maintain cognitive function during aging.
“Some phytonutrients including pomegranate ellagitannins may reduce oxidative stress and inflammation, and thus could maintain brain health during aging.”
In their study, these neuroscientists recruited 200 people. These subjects were randomized to receive either a a daily cup of pomegranate juice or a look-alike, taste-alike placebo drink. They were tested at the beginning of the study and again at six and 12 months. This qualifies as a long-term clinical trial.
People drinking the placebo beverage had a significant decline in their visual/spatial memory during this time whereas the group drinking pomegranate juice were just as capable at the end as at the beginning of the trial.
The authors conclude:
“…these findings that pomegranate juice maintains visual memory skills in middle-aged and older adults could have a potential impact on visual memory issues commonly associated with aging.”
Why Pomegranate Juice is Good for Your Brain:
Pomegranate juice has impressive antioxidant properties. Ingredients in pomegranate juice, especially ellagitannins, can ease oxidative stress and reduce inflammation. European investigators note that pomegranate juice may be “neuroprotective” against Parkinson’s disease (International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Dec. 27, 2019).
Pomegranate Juice and Your Body:
The antioxidant activity of pomegranate juice is not confined to the brain.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of pomegranate juice for helping control blood pressure concluded (Pharmacological Research, Jan. 2017):
“The present meta-analysis suggests consistent benefits of pomegranate juice consumption on BP. This evidence suggests it may be prudent to include this fruit juice in a heart-healthy diet.”
Another review in Current Pharmaceutical Design (July, 2017) concluded:
“Pomegranate juice possesses antioxidant, anti-hypertensive and anti-atherosclerotic properties.”
What has been your experience with pomegranate juice? Share your thoughts in the comment section below.
