Ageing is associated with increased inflammation, often called “inflammageing,” which is marked by higher levels of pro-inflammatory markers. This inflammation contributes to various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and neurodegenerative disorders. With the global population of people over 60 years of age expected to reach 2.1 billion by 2050, improving the health of adults over age 55 years is crucial for reducing inflammation and cardiovascular risks to prevent disease. Obesity, common in older adults, worsens inflammageing and increases the risk of additional health problems.
Polyphenols, particularly those found in pomegranate (Punica granatum L.), have gained attention for their potential to reduce inflammatory markers and cardiovascular risk factors. Pomegranate is rich in antioxidants like punicalagin, making it one of the most antioxidant-rich foods. It is also a sustainable fruit, adaptable to climate change with a low environmental impact. Notably, the benefits of pomegranate are more pronounced in overweight and obese individuals, indicating that further research is needed to better understand its role in disease prevention for in older adults.
A study by Farhat et al., published in the journal “Nutrients”, investigated whether pomegranate extract (PE) could reduce inflammatory markers and cardiometabolic risk factors in normal-weight and overweight adults aged 55–70 years. In this two-arm double-blind trial, 86 participants received either PE (740 mg) or placebo for 12 weeks. Significant reductions in IL-6 (p = 0.02) and IL-1β (p = 0.05) were observed in the PE group. Systolic blood pressure decreased by 5.22 mmHg ± 1.26 mmHg (SE), p = 0.04). The study concluded that PE could lower inflammation and blood pressure, and can serve as a cost-effective measure to promote healthy ageing in older adults. (See Graphic).
(Source: Farhat G, Malla J, Vadher J, Al-Dujaili EA. Effects of pomegranate extract on inflammatory markers and cardiometabolic risk factors in adults aged 55–70 years: A randomised controlled parallel trial. Nutrients. 2025;17(7):1235. https://doi.org/10.3390/nu17071235)