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Researchers reveal the unique potential against obesity of one of the oldest organic molecules.
An organic molecule, revealed in a groundbreaking study conducted by researchers from the Universities of Extremadura and Córdoba, could be key in counteracting the harmful effects of sustained sugar consumption. This research highlights the significant impact of supplementation with this molecule in the prevention of metabolic diseases.
Demonstrated to alter the microbiota to fight obesity
The supplement proved effective in altering the microbiota and producing microbial metabolites similar to urolithins, suggesting an innovative approach in nutrition and liver health. Not only did it reduce fat deposits and improve blood lipid levels, but it also showed improvements in markers of liver damage, including fatty liver. The study delved into the analysis of intestinal microbiota and metabolites in the urine, revealing that microbial metabolites derived from supplement consumption could be responsible for these health benefits.
Organic molecule against obesity
The organic molecule is punicalagin, a potent antioxidant found primarily in the skin of the pomegranate, one of the oldest and nutritionally rich fruits known to humankind. Over the years, various research has highlighted the multiple health properties of punicalagin.
Anti-obesity mechanism of punicalagin
Dr. Mario Estévez, one of the leaders of the research, comments, “Although the exact mechanism has not been unveiled, it is possible that punicalagin blocks intestinal fructose transporters, which would explain its antidiabetic and hepatoprotective effect.” The transformation of punicalagin into microbial metabolites like urolithins ensures that consuming this supplement is safe and completely harmless.
More healthy evidence of punicalagin
Dr. Estévez notes that this study was published in the scientific journal Food & Function this April 2024 and is one of four carried out in the last four years, which will soon be published in scientific journals. In one of them, punicalagin supplementation showed a significant improvement in patients diagnosed with irritable bowel syndrome. Another study demonstrated that punicalagin favors the growth of probiotic bacteria.
Studies financed by official organizations
These studies have been funded by the Ministry of Science, Innovation, and Universities of the Government of Spain. For punicalagin supplementation, a dietary supplement from the brand Granatum Plus was selected, whose high concentration of punicalagin was confirmed in the laboratories of the University of Extremadura and the Miguel Hernández University. It was found that one capsule of the supplement with pomanox contains the punicalagin equivalent of up to 800 grams of pomegranate arils or the equivalent of 500 ml of freshly squeezed pomegranate juice. On the other hand, its caloric value does not exceed 1 kcal.
Product characteristics and origin
Eduardo Vidal, director of Granatum Plus, states: “Our Punicalagina Plus extract was selected for this study, which has been a great incentive. The company, established in Murcia more than 14 years ago, focuses on the commercialization of dietary supplements based on the main organic molecules of the Mediterranean diet. To preserve its natural profile, advanced and environmentally respectful techniques have been employed. The pomegranate used is processed fresh, just 24 hours after its collection. The origin and cultivation techniques in Spain and especially in the Region of Murcia and the province of Alicante have been decisive in obtaining a completely natural supplement.
“We have managed to develop this product while minimizing the carbon footprint, as the entire process, from cultivation to commercialization, is carried out within a 50-kilometer radius,” and the extraction process is ecological, using only pure water, which ensures the natural profile of punicalagin, processing local fruits that are discarded for fresh consumption due to physical flaws and would otherwise be waste. Vidal adds. Punicalagina Plus, on the market since 2010, has already contributed more than 14 scientific studies that value this supplement as a reference in the treatment of chronic diseases related to inflammation.
Looking for investors to grow
In 2023, Granatum Plus collaborated with UCAM HITECH in Murcia and Innoventures Capital, preparing for investment rounds and presenting its project at the WAYKUP. “We hope to close an investment round soon that will allow us to value the project.
Natural Antioxidants of the Mediterranean S.L.
Eduardo Vidal – Manager – Granatum Plus
c/ Laderas, 33 – 30163 – Murcia – Spain
Phone +34 968 847 325
