The Surprising Athletic Benefits of Pomegranate
HOW DOES POMEGRANATE BENEFIT ATHLETES?
- Reduces Inflammation
- Supports Joint Health
- Improves Athletic Performance
- Fights Bacteria and Fungal Infections
- Boosts Immune Functions
POMEGRANATE REDUCES INFLAMMATION + SUPPORTS JOINT HEALTH
Pomegranate aids in reducing inflammation and protects the cartilage in your joints.
A 2005 study looked at the effectiveness of pomegranate extract against Interleukin-1b, a pro-inflammatory protein that plays a key role in cartilage degradation in osteoarthritis.
The study found that pomegranate fruit extract protected joint cartilage and prevented cartilage degradation by inhibiting the effects of IL-1b on Osteoarthritis.
A second study in 2010, focusing on the effectiveness of pomegranate juice on osteoarthritis concluded that pomegranate juice indeed prevented the negative effects of iodoacetate - an inhibitor of glycolysis which promotes osteoarthritis in the joints.
POMEGRANATE IMPROVES ATHLETIC PERFORMANCE
Rich in nitrates, pomegranate has been shown to improve exercise and athletic performance, especially during high intensity training.
Nitrates dilate blood vessels, which in turn improves blood flow and sends oxygen rich blood to the heart. By improving oxygen availability, nitrates have been shown to improve exercise during high intensity workouts and enhance athletic performance.
Nitrates also increase the efficiency of mitochondria, to increase energy production in cells.
POMEGRANATE FIGHTS OFF BACTERIAL AND FUNGAL INFECTIONS
Pomegranates have been revered for hundreds of years for their immune boosting properties.
Rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, pomegranates boost the immune system to fight off bacteria, fungal infections, and viruses.
As athletes in close contact sports, pomegranate adds an extra layer of protection when you're on the mats.
BOTTOM LINE
Pomegranate has an immense effect on performance and training, which is why it makes such a valuable addition to a supplement routine that supports joint health and recovery.
Add pomegranate to your training to reap the benefits and improve your athletic performance.
