Is Dried Pomegranate Beneficial For Osteoarthritis?

By: Dried Pomegranates Filed Under: General Information Posted: January 25, 2013

Dried pomegranate is considered to help minimize the risk of developing osteoarthritis and atherosclerosis. Research studies have found that the fruit works by preventing the hardening of artery walls and damages caused to the joints and cartilage. Even though, more researches are underway, doctors are beginning to see the benefits of pomegranate in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Pomegranates contain high amount of potassium, vitamin C and fiber, but negligible amount of calories. Dried pomegranate is rich in 3 main types of antioxidants or polyphenols – ellagic acid, anthocyanins and tannins. Osteoarthritis is usually associated with aging and most people consider it a part of the process. However, the condition is preventable. Researchers have found that extracts from the fruit are helpful in blocking the enzymes that cause the degradation of the cartilage that further results in osteoarthritis.

The enzymes, known as MMPs are responsible for remodeling tissue. However, a protein known as interleukin-1b overproduces these enzymes, which results in the degradation of the cartilage and damage of joints. Osteoarthritis is the most commonly occurring type of arthritis. It would typically involve breaking down of the joint cartilage and it can affect any joint including the knees, hips, feet, fingers and lower back.

The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties of pomegranate is especially helpful in preventing and improving osteoarthritis and a wide range of other diseases. Currently, the condition is treated using anti-inflammatory drugs that help inhibit the involved enzymes, but they come with a wide range of side effects. Dried pomegranate is considered to be the more effective, natural treatment for this condition because it is entirely free from toxins and side effects.

Pomegranate has been used for centuries for its medicinal benefits. Recent studies have also suggested that the dried fruit can have anti-carcinogenic properties. In fact, it is increasingly claimed to have chemo-preventative and therapeutic effects that can be helpful in the prevention and treatment of a wide range of cancers. Whether you want to prevent or treat osteoarthritis, or prevent a wide range of other diseases, you would hardly find anything as effective as pomegranate taken in its dried form.


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