A substance in pomegranates could be key to a new anti-aging treatment, strengthening muscles and mitochondrial health. According to researchers from the University of Washington, the fruit contains an extract called urolithin A, which they believe can protect against frailty during old age.
Their study found older adults taking urolithin A supplements performed better in physical endurance tests. The metabolite compound is also present in some berries and nuts. It boosts the mitochondria – the power stations of cells – and also shows an ability to increase muscle strength.
The compound is available in pill form and powders in health food stores. The team notes that urolithin A is produced by gut bacteria after consuming foods rich in ellagitannins. People produce urolithin A at variable rates as diet, age, genetics and disease affect the makeup of their microbiome.
