Effects of pomegranate juice on blood pressure: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials
Abstrakt
Punica granatum L. (Pomegranate) has been claimed to provide several health benefits. Pomegranate juice is a polyphenol-rich fruit juice with high antioxidant capacity.
Several studies suggested that pomegranate juice can exert antiatherogenic, antioxidant, antihypertensive, and anti-inflammatory effects. Nevertheless, the potential cardioprotective benefits of pomegranate juice deserve further clinical investigation.
To systematically review and meta-analyze available evidence from randomized placebo controlled trials (RCTs) investigating the effects of pomegranate juice consumption and blood pressure (BP). A comprehensive literature search in Medline and Scopus was carried out to identify eligible RCTs.
A meta-analysis of eligible studies was performed using a random-effects model. Quality assessment, sensitivity analysisand publication bias evaluations were conducted using standard methods.
Quantitative data synthesis from 8 RCTs showed significant reductions in both systolic [weighed mean difference (WMD): -4.96 mmHg, 95% CI: -7.67 to -2.25, p12 wks: WMD = -4.36 mmHg, 95% CI: -7.89 to -0.82, p = 0.016) and 240 cc: WMD= -3.62 mmHg, 95% CI: -6.62 to -0.63, p= 0.018) and 240 cc provided a borderline significant effect in reducing DBP. The present meta-analysis suggests consistent benefits of pomegranate juice consumption on BP.
This evidence suggests it may be prudent to include this fruit juice in a heart-healthy diet.