Can pomegranate reduce muscle damage? Original paper
In this meta-analysis of 10 controlled trials, taking a pomegranate supplement generally had no effect on biomarkers of muscle damage.
This Study Summary was published on April 23, 2025.
The study
A total of 198 participants (mostly men) were evaluated, including athletes and physically active people.
The participants took pomegranate extract or juice for approximately 1 to 8 weeks. The dosage ranged from approximately 1 gram to 1,500 milliliters daily.
The outcomes were assessed at several time points after exercise, including immediately after, as well as 2, 24, 48, and 72 hours after.
Pomegranate reduced lactate dehydrogenase immediately after exercise (3 studies), compared with a placebo, but did not affect other biomarkers of muscle damage (e.g., creatine kinase) or muscle soreness.
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The results
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This Study Summary was published on April 23, 2025.