Red Drink Could 'Unclog Arteries' and Lower Cholesterol, Studies Suggest
Research indicates that consuming a specific red beverage might help clean your arteries and reduce levels of 'bad' cholesterol. Pomegranate juice, a tart and vibrant drink, is not only delicious but also packed with numerous health benefits, making it a potentially valuable addition to your diet.
How Pomegranate Juice Benefits Cardiovascular Health
Rich in antioxidants, pomegranate juice plays a crucial role in protecting LDL cholesterol from oxidative damage, which may help prevent plaque accumulation. Plaque buildup in the arteries poses a significant danger by narrowing and stiffening them, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of serious health issues such as heart attacks and strokes. Plaque can also rupture, leading to blood clots that obstruct blood flow.
Researchers propose that pomegranate may combat cardiovascular disease through multiple pathways, including reducing oxidative stress, supporting the synthesis and activity of nitric oxide, and inhibiting the oxidation of potentially harmful LDL (low-density lipoprotein).
What Do Studies Show About Pomegranate Juice?
As reported by Surrey Live, research suggests the antioxidants in pomegranates may help inhibit the formation of plaque and slow its buildup. According to a study by Michael Aviram, DSc, at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, these antioxidants may also help fight oxidised cholesterol, which contributes to clogged arteries.
Other research demonstrates that the drink can enhance blood circulation and prevent arteries from becoming rigid, which is vital in preventing cardiovascular disease. Some small studies have shown that regularly drinking pomegranate juice can reduce LDL cholesterol levels. However, the National Institutes of Health notes that research on this fruit is still in its early stages.
The antioxidants found in pomegranates may help reduce inflammation, thereby supporting healthy arteries. A study published in Clinical Nutrition found significant reductions in plaque thickness among patients who consumed pomegranate over the course of a year.
The results indicated that people who drank pomegranate juice experienced up to a 30 per cent reduction in carotid artery thickness, compared to a nine per cent increase observed in people with a placebo. The researchers said the maximum benefit was after 12 months of consuming pomegranate juice.
They noted: "Systolic blood pressure was reduced after one year of pomegranate juice consumption by 12 per cent and was not further reduced along three years of PJ consumption." The polyphenols found in pomegranate may be responsible for these benefits, as they are the main source of its antioxidant effects and help improve how the heart’s lining and blood vessels function.
The researchers added that the results of the present study "suggest that pomegranate juice consumption by patients with carotid artery stenosis decreases carotid intimal-media thickness and systolic blood pressure." They further explained: "These effects could be related to the potent antioxidant characteristics of pomegranate juice polyphenols."
Additional Research and Considerations
A 2017 review published in Pharmacological Research, which analysed eight clinical trials, indicated that pomegranate juice can lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This effect persisted regardless of the amount of juice consumed. The authors suggested that incorporating this fruit juice into a heart-healthy diet could be a wise choice.
Although the research appears promising, further studies are required. Some experts say the drink doesn't have as much of an impact on cholesterol levels. A 2019 review in Complementary Therapies in Medicine analysed 17 different trials but revealed no notable effects on cholesterol. The researchers noted that comparing these trials was challenging, mainly due to their varied designs and inconsistent dosages of pomegranate used.
Why Are Pomegranates Healthy Beyond Heart Benefits?
Pomegranates contain antioxidants such as tannins, flavonoids, and anthocyanins that help protect cells by fighting free radicals. These compounds may also help reduce and repair DNA damage, which could lower the risk of some cancers. The fruit may help prevent arterial thickening and plaque accumulation, supporting healthy blood flow and circulation, and it may also help lower blood pressure, an important aspect of heart health.
Pomegranates contain compounds that may reduce inflammation, which can benefit people with inflammatory conditions or those looking to lower overall inflammation. Other potential benefits include:
- Pomegranates could enhance stamina during workouts and aid in recovery post-exercise.
- They might play a role in preventing bone deterioration.
- Some studies suggest that pomegranates may boost memory and cognitive abilities.
- They are rich in fibre, which supports healthy digestion and gut health.
Important Health Considerations
Pomegranates may help lower blood pressure. However, if you already have low blood pressure or are taking medication for high blood pressure, it’s best to speak with your doctor before adding pomegranate juice to your diet. This caution also applies to other heart medications and cholesterol-lowering drugs.
It’s also worth noting that pomegranates may slow how the liver processes certain medicines, including statins prescribed to lower cholesterol levels. Additionally, they may affect the blood thinner warfarin, reducing its effectiveness and raising the risk of clot formation. It's wise to consult a healthcare provider before making pomegranate fruit or juice a regular part of your diet.
In addition, pomegranate juice contains natural sugars, which can increase calorie intake and may offset some of its heart-health benefits, so it should be consumed in moderation. For safety, it’s important to ensure it’s compatible with your current medications and health routine before making it a regular part of your diet.
If you are worried about your health, always seek help from your GP or another trusted medical professional.
