A glass of pomegranate juice a day could keep the wrinkles away, according to a new study that reveals it slows down the ageing process of DNA.
Pomegranate has previously been linked to the prevention of heart disease and stress relief but now researchers from the Probelte Bio Labatory in Spain have found that the fruit juice also slows down the natural oxidation ('wear and tear') of DNA.
During the study, scientists used a potent new type of pomegranate extract including the skin, pith and seeds of the fruit. The 60 participants were asked to take the extract for 30 days in the form of a pill.
The results found a significant decrease in a marker associated with cell damage, that disrupts brain, muscle, liver and kidney functions, as well as causing ageing.
The decrease in the ageing DNA was unknown to scientists until this study was conducted and researchers say they are, "excited about this study". Talking about the findings, Dr. Sergio Streitenberger, head of research, says, "We believe the study demonstrates that regular consumption of this new pomegranate extract can slow down the process of DNA oxidation."
"We get old because we fall apart, cell by cell. One way to look at ageing is to think of it as rusting or oxidizing, a damaging process. The free radicals that oxidize our body's molecules include fats, heavy metals and numerous other chemical compounds we breathe, eat and drink.
"If free radicals reach the DNA of our cells, the damage is cumulative and significant. Being able to guard against this process would be a significant breakthrough," Dr. Streitenberger added.
The health benefits of pomegranate juice have been widely known for some time as it helps lower cholesterol and blood pressure, as well as being a great source of antioxidant.
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