Pomegranate Peel Extract Reduces Inflammation in Women With Knee Osteoarthritis

Jenn Hoskins
3rd June, 2024

Pomegranate Peel Extract Reduces Inflammation in Women With Knee Osteoarthritis

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • The study by Tabriz University of Medical Sciences focused on obese women with knee osteoarthritis (OA)
  • Pomegranate peel extract (PPE) significantly reduced inflammatory markers like hs-CRP, NF-ĸB, MMP1, and MCP-1 in the intervention group
  • PPE supplementation may help manage inflammation in knee OA, potentially alleviating symptoms and slowing disease progression
Osteoarthritis (OA) is a prevalent musculoskeletal disorder and a leading cause of disability worldwide, particularly affecting the elderly population[2]. With an aging and increasingly obese demographic, the incidence of OA is on the rise, making it a significant public health concern[3]. Recent research has focused on understanding the pathogenesis of OA and developing effective management strategies. A new study conducted by Tabriz University of Medical Sciences aimed to evaluate the effects of pomegranate peel extract (PPE) on inflammatory markers and matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1) in women with knee OA[1]. The study included 60 obese women aged 38 to 60 years diagnosed with knee OA. Participants were divided into two groups: an intervention group receiving 500 mg of PPE twice daily and a placebo group. Both groups continued their standard drug therapy throughout the 8-week trial. Researchers collected data on dietary intake, anthropometric measurements, fasting blood samples, and physical activity levels at the beginning and end of the study. The findings revealed that PPE supplementation significantly reduced serum levels of high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), nuclear factor kappa-light-chain-enhancer of activated B cells (NF-ĸB), MMP1, and monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1) in the intervention group compared to the placebo group (P < .05 for all markers). Notably, the serum NF-ĸB levels increased significantly within the placebo group by the end of the trial (P = .002), while changes in other variables in the placebo group were not significant. These results suggest that PPE supplementation may have a beneficial role in modulating inflammatory markers associated with knee OA. Inflammation is a crucial component in the pathogenesis of OA, and reducing inflammatory markers can potentially alleviate symptoms and slow disease progression. This aligns with earlier findings that emphasize the importance of managing inflammation in OA treatment[2][4]. The study's focus on obese women is particularly relevant given that obesity is a significant risk factor for OA. Excess weight increases mechanical stress on joints, exacerbating the condition[4]. By targeting inflammation, PPE supplementation addresses both the mechanical and biochemical aspects of OA, offering a more comprehensive approach to management. This study adds to the growing body of evidence supporting the use of natural supplements in managing OA. Previous studies have highlighted the need for individualized treatment plans, incorporating self-management, education, exercise, and weight loss[2]. PPE supplementation could be integrated into these plans, providing an additional tool for managing inflammation and potentially improving patient outcomes. In conclusion, the research conducted by Tabriz University of Medical Sciences demonstrates that PPE supplementation can significantly reduce inflammatory markers in women with knee OA. These findings offer a promising new avenue for managing OA, particularly in obese patients. Further research is needed to confirm these results and explore the long-term benefits of PPE supplementation in broader populations.

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References

Main Study

1) Effects of Pomegranate (Punica granatum L.) Peel Extract Supplementation on Markers of Inflammation and Serum Matrix Metalloproteinase 1 in Women With Knee Osteoarthritis: A Randomized Double-Blind Placebo-Controlled Study.

Published 3rd June, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1177/11786388241243266

Related Studies

4) Etiopathogenesis of osteoarthritis.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rdc.2008.05.011


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