Pomegranate consumption can apparently contribute to a significant reduction in blood pressure and thus prevent further cardiovascular diseases. Pomegranates seem to have a preventative effect against high blood pressure and could also contribute to treatment.
In a systematic review and meta-analysis, a Canadian-Iranian research team examined the available studies on the effects of pomegranate consumption on systolic and diastolic blood pressure. The promising results have been published in the specialist magazine “Phytotherapy Research”.
Evidence of blood pressure lowering effects
Various previous research studies have suggested that pomegranates and pomegranate juice can help lower blood pressure. Based on a systematic evaluation of the randomized clinical studies published up to January 2024, the experts now examined the effect of pomegranate consumption on blood pressure.
After extensive research, the researchers used 22 randomized clinical trials in which adult participants consumed pomegranate in various forms as part of the study intervention for a meta-analysis.
Significant reduction in blood pressure
There was a significant reduction in blood pressure through pomegranate consumption. The data analysis showed that pomegranate consumption in the studies reduced systolic blood pressure by an average of 7.87 mmHg and diastolic blood pressure by 3.23 mmHg, the team reports.
In addition, the blood pressure-lowering effect was significantly stronger in people with an initial systolic blood pressure value above 130 mmHg than in people with an initial value below 130 mmHg.
Further studies required
Accordingly, pomegranate consumption seems to enable an effective reduction in blood pressure, especially when blood pressure levels are elevated. However, according to the researchers, further high-quality studies remain necessary to clearly demonstrate the clinical effectiveness of pomegranate consumption and to identify the underlying mechanisms. (fp)
