In her statement, Dr. Işık Tekin of the Department of Cardiology at PAU Hospitals made the following remarks:

“Pomegranates grown particularly in Denizli’s Pamukkale district and surrounding areas attract attention not only for their flavour but also for the natural compounds they contain. Pomegranate can be a valuable part of a healthy diet. However, no single food should be regarded as a miracle treatment that protects the heart on its own. An evaluation of the findings from 33 clinical studies published in 2026 showed that research involving pomegranate juice and pomegranate extract found an average reduction of approximately 3.5 mmHg in systolic blood pressure and 1.5 mmHg in diastolic blood pressure compared with control groups. These figures represent the average results across the studies. The same outcome cannot be expected in everyone who consumes pomegranate. Nevertheless, pomegranate may have a positive effect on hypertension. More importantly, consuming pomegranate is not a substitute for hypertension treatment. Patients should not discontinue their medication without consulting their physicians.

Pomegranate is a fruit containing natural polyphenols. Some of these polyphenols are converted by intestinal bacteria into a highly beneficial molecule called Urolithin A, which is associated with slowing down ageing. The potential effects of these compounds on oxidative stress, inflammatory processes in blood vessel walls and the functions of the endothelial layer lining the inner surface of blood vessels are being investigated. Some studies have observed improvements in markers associated with vascular health. These findings do not mean that pomegranate can clear blocked arteries or definitively prevent heart attacks. However, its potential benefits for cardiovascular health should not be overlooked.

In daily diets, we should preferably consume pomegranate seeds. Pomegranate seeds contain dietary fibre, which supports gut health and promotes a feeling of fullness. With pomegranate juice, however, the natural sugars of a larger quantity of fruit can be consumed in a short period. People with diabetes should pay particular attention to portion sizes.

“What matters is not consuming large quantities of pomegranate, but making it part of a balanced diet.”

Tekin noted that there is no scientifically established exact daily intake of pomegranate for protecting heart health and continued her remarks as follows:

“Approximately 80–90 grams of pomegranate seeds may be a reasonable portion to include in a daily diet. If pomegranate juice is preferred, a small glass of 100–150 millilitres may be considered. However, these amounts are not therapeutic doses established for lowering blood pressure.

Pomegranate is generally considered safe for most people when consumed in normal dietary amounts. Nevertheless, people who need to restrict their potassium intake due to kidney disease should consult their physicians about how much they can consume. People with diabetes should pay particular attention to the sugar content of pomegranate juice. Those taking warfarin should also exercise caution regarding possible drug interactions associated with consuming large amounts of pomegranate juice or concentrated pomegranate supplements. Although these interactions have not been conclusively established, seeking medical advice before regular and high-volume consumption would be advisable.

Pomegranate molasses is produced by concentrating pomegranate juice. Processing methods can alter the amounts of natural compounds it contains. Pomegranate molasses-based sauces may also contain added sugar. The findings of studies on pomegranate juice cannot be directly applied to pomegranate molasses. We can use pomegranate molasses to add flavour to meals, but it should not be regarded as a proven cardiovascular treatment.

The way to protect heart health is not to expect miracles from a single food, but to maintain a balanced diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, and keep blood pressure and cholesterol under control. Let us enjoy pomegranate while staying true to scientific evidence.”