Each part of the pomegranate has a bioactive compound, a chemical that promotes health for the body. These include:
- Pomegranate skin contains bioactive compounds such as phenolics, flavonoids, and ellagitannins (the main source of active antioxidants);
- Seeds, containing punicic acid, omega-5 fatty acids;
- Aril (the meat in the outer layer surrounding the seed), contains phenolics and flavonoids including; Anthocyanins that give red color to the seeds, and make the pomegranate juice red.
Pomegranate for the treatment of prostate cancer
A study of 13 compounds contained in pomegranates showed the ability to slow the growth and spread of cancer cells and cause the death of prostate cancer cells
Punicic acid (a bioactive compound found in pomegranate seeds) has been shown to have a powerful effect in causing prostate cancer cell death, with higher doses of treatment becoming more effective.
Another study of mice injected with prostate tumor cells, found that mice drinking pomegranate juice dissolved in water, had smaller tumors and took longer to develop secondary tumors than those who drank regular water.
In a population study, of 48 patients with elevated antigen-specific prostate (PSA), after surgery or radiation therapy, patients were given 8 ounces of pomegranate juice daily for 33 months.
Patients who were given pomegranate juice drink had a slow PSA doubling time (how long would it take 100% for PSA levels to increase blood).
When prostate cancer cells (LNCaP) in the laboratory are treated with patient blood - before and after the study - there is a decrease in cell growth and an increase in cancer cell death after pomegranate treatment.
Side effects of pomegranates for patients with prostate cancer
Are there any adverse events or risks reported from the treatment of prostate cancer with pomegranates?
From the above study, prostate cancer patients treated with pomegranate juice reported no / no serious side effects.
Some pomegranate products sold in supermarkets may contain added sugar. The American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) recommends limiting sweet drinks.
