Daijiworld Media Network- New Delhi
New Delhi, Jun 13: In a promising breakthrough for heart health, recent research suggests that drinking just one glass of pomegranate juice daily may significantly reduce the risk of artery blockage. The study, published in Clinical Nutrition and conducted by scientists at the Technion-Israel Institute of Technology, revealed that participants who consumed pomegranate juice for a year experienced up to a 30% reduction in arterial plaque.
Rich in polyphenols such as punicalagin, tannins, and anthocyanins, pomegranate juice is packed with powerful antioxidants that are known to fight oxidative stress — one of the primary culprits behind artery damage and heart disease. These antioxidants also help reduce the oxidation of LDL, or “bad” cholesterol, which plays a major role in plaque formation within the arteries.
The study primarily observed patients suffering from carotid artery stenosis, a condition where the arteries in the neck narrow due to plaque buildup. Remarkably, daily consumption of pomegranate juice not only reduced arterial thickening but also led to an approximate 12% drop in systolic blood pressure over the course of a year. Researchers also noted enhanced blood flow and reduced inflammation.
In a separate clinical trial involving patients with coronary heart disease, a three-month intake of 240 ml of pomegranate juice showed improvement in stress-induced ischemia, indicating better blood supply to the heart during stressful conditions.
Scientists say the juice enhances the activity of protective enzymes like paraoxonase 1 (PON1) and lowers angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) levels, aiding in the relaxation of blood vessels and further lowering blood pressure.
Doctors, however, recommend that while pomegranate juice can be a heart-friendly addition to one’s diet, it should be complemented by prescribed medications and not seen as a substitute. Regular consumption, they note, may not only reduce artery blockage but also contribute to overall cardiovascular well-being.