Pomegranate compound 'could combat' complications of ageing

Conclusion This was a mixed animal study that aimed to investigate the effect of compounds called urolithins first in roundworms and then rodents. Urolithins are formed during the breakdown of ellagitannins, which are found in pomegranates, nuts and berries. It was not known whether urolithins were just a waste product, or if they had any beneficial effects. The study found that one of the urolithins in particular, urolithin A, seems to improve muscle function in rodents. We do not know conclusively why, but the results suggested this was due to improving the quality of the mitochondria by increasing the rate of destruction of damaged mitochondria and increasing production of healthy mitochondria. Studies like this are useful early-stage research for getting an indication of biological processes and how things may work in humans, however, we are not identical and findings can't necessarily be extrapolated. We now eagerly await the results of the clinical trials that are now under way to see if there are similar positive effects in humans, and also to assess the safety and required dosage. Exercise recommendations for older adults (aged 65 or above) are broadly the same as for all adults, and recommend at least 150 minutes a week of activity, combining both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.   Links To The Headlines Discovery of pomegranate's anti-ageing molecule is a 'milestone'. The Daily Telegraph, July 11 2016 Are pomegranates a fountain of youth? Fruit co...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Food/diet Medication Source Type: news