WHO knew pomegranates might just be the superheroes of health we never saw coming?
Researchers at Edith Cowan University (ECU) are diving into the juicy details of how ellagic acid, an antioxidant in certain fruits and veggies, could help tackle non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).
The disease is basically your liver's way of saying, "hey, too many cheeseburgers".
Its prevalence has skyrocketed, going from 25.24% in 2015 to 29.38% in 2021, now causing nearly half of chronic liver disease-related deaths worldwide, researchers added.
Enter ellagic acid, the antioxidant avenger found in raspberries, pomegranates, blackberries, and pecan nuts.
Who knew saving your liver could be so delicious?
Dr Lois Balmer and PhD student Tharani Senavirathna at ECU are on a mission to see if this magic molecule can not only halt but also reverse the liver damage caused by NAFLD.
Ellagic acid is not just an antioxidant; it's got anti-inflammatory, anti-fibrotic, and even anti-cancer powers.
"Ellagic acid is like the Swiss Army knife of polyphenolic compounds," said Dr Balmer.
"It has a whole arsenal of pharmacological properties that might just save the day for NAFLD patients."
Now, a larger study is in the works to figure out exactly when to unleash this fruity force before it's too late to reverse the damage.
The above article was sent to subscribers in Pharmacy Daily's issue from 31 May 24
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