Pomegranate Compound Could Help Protect Against Heart Disease

Researchers found that urolithin A, a gut bacteria–derived metabolite from pomegranate polyphenols, reduced arterial plaque buildup in preclinical studies.

The compound also lowered inflammation and oxidative stress, while making plaques more stable and less likely to rupture.

In cell and mouse models, urolithin A reduced cholesterol uptake in macrophages and slowed atherosclerosis progression.

The findings point to a potential new heart disease strategy that targets plaque biology, though human trials are still needed.