Another constituent that plays a major role in the pomegranate as a functional food is anthocyanins. The family of hydrolysable tannins contains two members, ellagitannins and gallotannins, which can be hydrolyzed into ellagic and gallic acid, respectively. Peels are source of phenolics, minerals and complex polysaccharides, while arils, apart from water (85%), contain sugars, pectin, organic acids, phenolics, and flavonoids—principally anthocyanins. The edible part of the fruit is at least 50% of the fruit (40% arils and 10% seeds), and the rest is the non-edible peel. However, the studies on athletes use a whole lot of magnesium, at least 400 mg daily. So, the more eggs you eat, the higher your T levels? Also, vegans typically consume lower-fat, lower-cholesterol diets and commonly have deficiencies in the micronutrients that support T production. Three out of 4 studies also demonstrated positive effects on (calculated) FT (53, 58, 63), and the 2 fenugreek studies that included BT as an outcome measure demonstrated positive effects (53, 64). Five studies were randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials (42, 57, 58, 63, 64) and one was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover study (53). Three studies used the Testofen® extract, manufactured by GencorTM (also known as Fenu-FG) (details of extract preparation not provided) (57, 58, 63) and the other 3 studies used the extracts IND9, manufactured by Indus Biotech® (53), Furosap®, manufactured by Chemical Resources (CHERESO) (42), and an extract standardized for Grecunin, manufactured by Indus Biotech® (64) (details of all extract preparations not provided). The herbal blend is standardized for punicalagin (from pomegranate) and theobromine (from cocoa). The researchers recruited 120 young men aged between 21 and 35 to participate in their randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study. The study was funded by India-based Laila Nutraceuticals For a well-rounded approach to health and wellness, embrace a diverse, nutrient-rich diet, and consult healthcare professionals when dealing with hormonal health issues. Finally, clinical studies with pomegranate seed oil in type 2 diabetic patients have resulted in reductions in the levels of fasting blood sugar, interleukin-6 and TNF-α (tumor necrosis factor-α); however, no significant changes have been observed in insulin and lipid profiles 93,94. The significance of pomegranate health benefits has been revealed by its adaption in several human-based studies (Table 5). These studies indicate that pomegranate polyphenols may mitigate the pathogenic effects of food-borne bacterial pathogens. A pomegranate peel extract (containing punicalin, punicalagin, and ellagic acid) reduced Citrobacter rodentium infection-induced weight loss and colon damage that correlated with a decreased mortality and reduced colonization of the spleen . The quantity of investigated compounds was calculated using calibration curves of authentic standards (punicalagin, punicalin, gallic acid, and ellagic acid). The total phenolic content in the pomegranate peel extract was analyzed spectrophotometrically using the Folin–Ciocalteu method as previously described . The effects depend on the investigated compound, its purity, application dose, and cell culture models 1,2,35,36,39,40,41. Most studies, mainly related to polyphenols from different sources, demonstrated the immunosuppressive properties of these compounds. We observed an increase in the proportion of both IL-10+ and TGF-β+ cells within both CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell subsets in the presence of high concentrations of PoPEx, which contradicts decreased levels of IL-10 in supernatants of such cultures. In one study, lower concentrations of ellagic acid decreased IL-1β, IL-6, IL-1Ra, and IL-10 production by PBMC incubated with a tumor cell line (HT-29), whereas higher concentrations inhibited the production of all cytokines examined, except IFN-γ . Higher concentrations of PoPEx increased the frequency of IL-10- and TGF-β-producing T-cells (much higher in the CD4+ subset). This aromatic ingredient contains allicin, which improves blood flow and can increase sperm production. These seeds are rich in zinc and omega-3 fatty acids, supporting both sperm production and quality. The antioxidant-rich fruit has been shown to improve sperm quality and motility. These brain-shaped nuts are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that support sperm vitality. The different parts of pomegranate plant like peel, root, bark, flower, leaves, and so forth exhibit different phytochemicals. The chemical composition of the fruits differs depending on the cultivar, growing region, maturity, cultivation practice, climate, and storage circumstances . Research on pomegranate is gaining momentum due to its tremendous nutritional values and medicinal uses. It can also function as antioxidants and protect DNA from oxidant-induced damage . Phytoestrogens have captured major research and clinical attention due to its effectiveness in the prevention and treatment of perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms, over hormone replacement therapy (HRT) . Are there any side effects to consider? Other people may also find themselves allergic to these fruits. Vitamin C, on the other hand, increases sex drive and sperm count. Cherries are rich in antioxidants that conversely have benefits for your body. Quercetin (7), which does not have an extra hydroxyl in the position 5′ of the B-cycle as in myricetin (8), has been shown to improve steroidogenesis and testosterone levels in male mice exposed to bisphenol A, widely used in the production of plastics . However, there were no changes in serum testosterone levels following quercetin (7) supplementation of healthy men for eight weeks . Indeed, treatments of MA-10 Leydig cells with 10 µM of quercetin (7), myricetin (8), or pentaacetylquercetin (9) (Figure 5) resulted in increased cAMP-dependent expressions of StAR, Cyp11a1, and Fdx1, contributing to increased steroidogenesis and accumulation of progesterone . Based on the available literature, we can conclude that intake of phytoestrogens does have some physiological effects in humans related to hormone regulation, but like hormones, the benefits depend on the stage of life. There is a clear need for further carefully designed studies to elucidate the effects of phytoestrogen consumption on the endocrine system. Also, while most studies analyze circulating hormones, others report the urinary excretion of metabolites. In premenopausal women, usually studied separately from postmenopausal women, uncertain results have been obtained regarding sex hormones, breast cancer protection, and bone remodeling. Sex steroids, including estrone, estriolm, and testosterone, are found in pomegranate seeds. Sterols or phytosterols, classified as natural steroids , are the least abundant bioactive compounds found in pomegranate . Essential oils, which contain both fatty and organic acids, are known for their various pharmacological benefits, such as anti-parasitic, antimicrobial, pain-relieving, antioxidant, and insect-repellent properties . Thus, due to differences in the structure of flavonoid compounds, flavonoids are classified as flavanols, flavanones, flavonols, isoflavones, flavones, and anthocyanins with their corresponding subclasses (Fig. 2). But their diversity is also largely determined by molecules of carbohydrates, organic acids, and other substances attached to scaffold (Singla et al., ,2019). Polyphenols are widely distributed in the plant world as secondary metabolites, especially in fruits and vegetables. 1. Findings Related to Pomegranate Products Consumption and CID in Humans Beyond the predictable comparatively higher extraction efficiency, the processing of pomegranate waste materials using HC methods, which has not been performed so far, is advisable based on the coexistence in PP of pectin and polyphenols. A declared advantage of the method is the preferred extraction of punicalagins, which, contrary to ellagic acid, are readily water soluble. In this regard, it should be pointed out the decisive role of the pH level of the liquid–solid mixture used in PP extraction processes for the resulting amount of relative fractions of phenolic acids, hydrolysable tannins (such as punicalagins) and flavonoids, as well as of free and bound phenolics . Emerging green extraction methods of pomegranate by-products were further reviewed in 2022, focusing on the most studied one, i.e., ultrasound-assisted extraction—based on cavitation events in a liquid–solid mixture—which showed good effectivity at the laboratory scale but were hardly scalable; moreover, this was the same concerning microwave- and enzyme-assisted extraction . Another comprehensive review reported on emerging green extraction methods for both pomegranate seeds and peel, focusing on the potential optimization achievable after the application of innovative methods in support to conventional techniques, such as Soxhlet and stirring; however, they once again highlighted the lack of standardization and industrial applications . PD-1 is a member of the CD28 family, which modulates T-cell function and is primarily upregulated on CD4 and CD8 T-cells surface upon activation by antigen-specific and non-specific stimulation. The appearance of CD69 on the plasma membrane of activated cells is faster than that of CD25 . It is expressed constitutively on the surface of several subsets of peripheral blood lymphocytes, such as regulatory and resting memory T-cells. CD69 regulates the differentiation of regulatory T (Treg) cells as well as the secretion of IFN-γ, IL-17, and IL-22. CD4+ T-cells were significantly more affected, not only due to apoptosis but also due to decreased expression of the CD4 molecule. The major pharmacological effects of pomegranate reported in randomized clinical trials pertain to diabetes, cardiovascular disease, oral cavity disorders, endocrine disorders, and cancer.Nevertheless, results using pure compounds must be extrapolated carefully because not only is the matrix different, but also the concentration, which is higher in pure extracts.In other in vitro studies, pomegranate extract also inhibited strains of periodontal bacteria, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia , Klebsiella, E.However, many of the study results are based on in vitro and cell-based assays.Citrobacter rodentium mimics many aspects of human enteropathogenic Escherichia coli infections and is therefore used in several studies with mice.Although a preliminary in silico analysis showed a potential involvement of the modulated miRs with cancer-related genes and pathways, the significance of these results in relation to cancer prevention is yet to be understood, warranting further research.However, in an open-labeled, non-randomized clinical trial of men with higher levels of PSA, free testosterone was depleted after 12 months of daily consumption of 141 mg of isoflavones in soy milk .The fatty acid component of pomegranate seed oil comprises over 95% of the oil, of which 99% is triacylglycerols.The photo-protective effects of PFE extend against the harmful effects of UVA radiation as well, shown in a study wherein PFE was evaluated for its effects against UVA-mediated activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), AKT, and ERK1/2 in NHEK . Estrogen and testosterone are pivotal in women’s CVD development, affecting cardiac function, endothelial function, vascular tone, and metabolic syndrome . Puneeth et al. identified asiatic acid as the main sterol compound, while Wong et al. identified β-sitosterol and stigmasterol. They have crucial health-promoting benefits and find essential applications in medicine, pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals, and cosmetics . In other in vitro studies, pomegranate extract also inhibited strains of periodontal bacteria, Aggregatibacter actinomycetemcomitans, P. gingivalis, Prevotella intermedia , Klebsiella, E. A Brazilian in vitro study investigated the antimicrobial effect of a pomegranate-based oral gel (made from an extract of dried peel combined with Carbopol, water, and triethanolamine) against Streptococcus sanguis, Streptococcus mitis, and S. All concentrations of the pomegranate extract had antibacterial activity against S. The effects of three different concentrations of a methanolic pomegranate peel extract at 4 mg/mL, 8 mg/mL, and 12 mg/mL on growth of dental bacteria were compared using the disc diffusion method . Another study using the methanolic extract of pomegranate peels formulated into a 10% (wt/wt) water-soluble gel showed similar enhancements in wound healing in a Wistar rat model compared to a commercial topical antibacterial product . Furthermore, when used in artificially inoculated fruits, pomegranate has proven very effective in inhibiting P. digitatum and Penicillium italicum in lemons, P. italicum in grapefruits, and P. expansum in apples.For a well-rounded approach to health and wellness, embrace a diverse, nutrient-rich diet, and consult healthcare professionals when dealing with hormonal health issues.Fruits are among the best testosterone-boosting foods you can add to your diet.Try adding these veggies to your meals a few times a week for a hormone boost.But, a drug trial tried to do the same thing—treat men with recurring prostate cancer after surgery or radiation.A glass of pomegranate juice or adding seeds to salads and yogurt can boost testosterone levels and support testosterone production.Pomegranate have a distinctive combination of sweet and tart flavors, making them a favored option for juices, smoothies, and diverse culinary uses . We also reported that luteolin (3) was able to activate Fdx1 (Ferredoxin 1) transcription in MA-10 Leydig cells . Indeed, we have shown that luteolin (3) can increase Leydig cell steroidogenesis by upregulating StAR expression 24,25. In addition, apigenin (2) also inhibits COX2 (cyclooxygenase-2) expression, which may contribute to increased StAR expression. In addition to the modulation of intracellular-signal transduction pathways, paracrine factors may also be shared through cell junctions and participate in the regulation of steroidogenesis within Leydig cells. Others have shown that the co-activations of PKC and PKA play an important role in upregulation of StAR and steroidogenesis in Leydig cells 20,21. Evidence suggests that reduced inhibitory effect of GABA on GnRH neurons leads to LH hormone secretion peak. Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) neurotransmitter plays an important role in the control of gonadotropin secretion. Daniel Romualdi et al. evaluated the effects of soy isoflavone (which has the same active phytoestrogens as chamomile) on patients with the polycystic ovary. Much of the time, men in their 40s and 50 notice symptoms of lower testosterone — which may be a natural decline due to aging. If necessary, your doctor can order further testing to identify the cause of low testosterone and recommend treatments. If you feel like your testosterone might be abnormally low, you should talk to your doctor. These pathways control DNA damage repair, oxidative balance, inflammation, immune responsiveness, and cell survival or cell death 69,70. Ultraviolet B (UVB) radiation coming from the sun represents a major risk factor for the development of skin cancer 69,70. Sun exposure is the major known environmental factor influencing the development of skin cancer of all types. Is Pomegranate Consumption Risk-Free? We’ve mentioned a few among our testosterone boosting foods — including vitamins B, C and D, zinc, magnesium, and omega-3 fatty acids — but there’s quite the list. Moderate exercise can elevate testosterone and semen levels (49), as well as improve brain function, self-esteem, and mood (50). Testosterone levels tend to increase at the onset of sleep and peak during REM (rapid eye movement). There’s always a risk that drugs, whether medicinal or recreational, can negatively impact your testosterone. Various grains, nuts, seeds, vegetables, herbs, and liquids contain high amounts of phytoestrogens, plant-based compounds that can mimic estrogen functionality. Our list of testosterone-killing foods includes a few that fit this description. Work in at least one extra hour of sleep every night, and your hormones may feel a lot more energized in the morning. In addition, given the existing controversy regarding the relative importance of “bound” and “unbound” testosterone (34), data for testosterone fractions and binding proteins were extracted and presented in the current review to increase the scope of findings.It found that total T levels were similar across all diet groups.Through their in vivo study, the researchers found that all the used diets supplemented with pomegranate were able to contrast the loss of bone mineral density induced by osteoporosis.However, IR may impair the production of T by Leydig’s cells due to organ resistance to insulin’s actions .Adult Leydig cells do express the aromatase enzyme (CYP19A1) which is responsible for the conversion of androgen into estrogen .About 100 ellagitannins are available in the pomegranate fruit and plant, the most abundant of which are punicalagins, punicalin A and punicalin B, which are also responsible for most of the antioxidant activity in vitro 4,14.Constituents of pomegranate minimize tumor cell invasion into normal tissue and metastasis to distant sites and these actions develop due to the inhibition of selected metalloproteinase activity, decreased focal adhesion kinase activity, and reduced VEGF expression . Pomegranate contains 83.6% and 16.3% saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, respectively, with the unsaturated fatty acids being a major component of pomegranate seeds . Flavonoids constitute a significant category of natural compounds, are characterized by a polyphenolic structure, and are widely distributed in vegetables, fruits, and certain beverages as secondary plant metabolites . We have classified the major nutraceuticals found in pomegranate, and the structures of the identified compounds are illustrated in Figure 2. Pomegranates contain various physiologically active compounds with potential health benefits . Punic acid, an isomer of linoleic acid unique to pomegranate seeds, accounts for nearly 76% of PSO . Our recent studies found that RBC rheology is strongly influenced by iron and an HFD 53,54.If low testosterone levels are something that has been giving you sleepless nights then the above-named foods to boost testosterone can go a long way in helping you boost the levels of this hormone in your body.In vitro, in vivo and human trials had examined the effects of a range of pomegranate constituents on the prevention and reduction of atherosclerosis and LDL oxidation .According to the manufacturer’s protocol, the total RNA Purification Mini Spin Kit (Genaxxon Bioscience GmbH, Ulm, Germany) was used for further extraction steps.MAPKs are important due to their inflammatory and cartilage damage regulation.In addition, recent in vitro and in vivo studies are presented in order to reveal pomegranate’s potential in the treatment of several diseases.Falsaperla et al. concluded that consumption of pomegranate (a capsule/day containing 180 mg of ellagic tannins) reduced neutropenia and toxicity induced by chemotherapy in hormone-refractory prostate cancer . Women can safely use Pomegranate juice to help balance female hormones. In an eight week Dermatology research study on skin aging and pomegranate, researchers concluded that pomegranate, “improved the moisture, brightness, elasticity, and collagen density of the skin of most subjects,” and improved the “moisture, brightness, elasticity, spots, UV spots, and collagen density of skin.” Only 4-8 oz of juice is needed to receive medicinal properties which is nice to know for hormone patients as it can be one of the most expensive juices out there, just as Saffron is the world’s most expensive spice! As I generally think we should be eating the whole fruit or whole pomegranate seeds to get the fiber along with the sugar. Naringenin (14) also prevented the decreases of serum testosterone and inhibin B in rats receiving chemotherapeutic drugs such as cisplatin and doxorubicin . Specifically, icariin (11) allowed to recover from the inhibitory effects of DEHP on the expression of steroidogenic enzymes (Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, and Hsd17b3) and the transcription factor Nr5a1 (Sf-1), known to regulate steroidogenic gene expression. Supporting its positive effect on steroidogenesis, quercetin improves Creb1 transcriptional activity, as well as Cyp11a1 and Fdx1 promoter activity . Flavonols, especially quercetin (7), have been well documented for their positive effects on testicular function and steroidogenesis. In their study, baicalein (4) instead decreased the expression of StAR, Hsd3b, Cyp11a1, and Cyp19a1 in ovarian tissues. As I’ve noted in previous articles, saliva tests are the best reading for free testosterone, also called bioavailable testosterone. Perhaps the most-quoted and most-cited study on the subject was conducted quite a few years ago, though their methods were sound. One important note, though, is that I found both studies had been cited by multiple other reputable studies. The anti-inflammatory effects of pomegranate and its constituents have been demonstrated in various experimental models and human diseases 28,74,75. The mitochondrial (m) ROS-induced oxidative stress provokes autophagy to protect the cells from apoptosis, and antioxidants attenuate autophagic activation . The antioxidant activity of PoPEx phytocompounds in vivo was mediated via different mechanisms, such as the inhibition of lipid peroxidation, scavenging or neutralizing ROS, activating or inhibiting several signaling pathways, and modulating gene expression . This in vivo study further confirmed the already described anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities of pomegranate. Notably, treatment with pomegranate extract and pomegranate juice (25 and 100 µg/ml) significantly enhanced the amount of both Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. Overall, these data underline that bioactive compounds contained in pomegranate juice may play a certain role in preventing cardiovascular risk factors, including atherosclerosis and obesity (70). These beneficial effects are due to a wide spectrum of bioactive compounds found in fruits and vegetables; for example, vitamins, antioxidants, folates and phytochemicals, such as carotenoids and polyphenols (67,68). In addition, to further confirm the neuroprotective effects of pomegranate juice, the research group detected the level of α-synuclein, whose deposition on neurons represents one of the main causes of Parkinson's disease. Also, some research shows that testosterone therapy can increase your risk of heart disease. Although some men believe they feel younger and more vigorous if they take testosterone medications, there's little evidence to support the use of testosterone in otherwise healthy men. The male hormone testosterone plays an important role in the development and maintenance of typical masculine physical characteristics, such as muscle mass and strength, and growth of facial and body hair. Yet the health benefits of testosterone therapy for age-related decline in testosterone aren't clear. By correcting these deficiencies, a high-quality multi can help your body maintain its peak natural testosterone production. These researchers showed that the juice could decrease low titers (~5 log10 PFU/mL) of FCV-F9, MNV-1, and MS2 by 2.56, 1.32, and 0.32 log10 PFU/mL, respectively, after 1 hour at room temperature and high titers (~7 log10 PFU/mL) by 1.20, 0.06, and 0.63 log10 PFU/mL. The infection is self-limiting in healthy individuals and lasts for up to 72 hours. Earlier studies indicated that HNoVs are estimated to be solely responsible for up to 2.3 million infections, 50,000 hospitalizations, and 300 deaths per year in the US alone . Recent studies indicate that viruses cause an estimated 59% of all foodborne illnesses (5.5 million), 27% of hospitalizations, and 12% of deaths in the United States alone . Natural antimicrobials from plant extracts have become increasingly popular for use as alternative antivirals 57–60. 2. Effect of Pomegranate Extract on Peri- and Post-Menopausal Symptoms Creb1 is an important activator of steroidogenic-gene expression, including StAR, in Leydig cells 65,66,67. Dihydrotestosterone is the main prostatic androgen responsible for the development of prostate cancer . Moreover, exposure to genistein (6) during perinatal development in male rodents resulted in reduced anogenital distance, lower testosterone serum levels, and decreased testicular mass compared to male rats under a normal diet 55,56,57. Therefore, high levels of isoflavones may have detrimental effects on testicular steroidogenesis during the early neonatal period. Genistein (6) inhibited progesterone secretion through the down-regulation of StAR expression in MA-10 Leydig cells . Sam is a passionate health and fitness enthusiast who has been interested in supplements, fitness, and wellness for over 10 years. While individual studies have shown some outlier data, that shouldn’t dissuade anyone from trying Pomegranate out for themselves, either in a product like TestoPrime, or on its own. In another study, some even less fortunate animals suffered testicular torsion (which is exactly what it sounds like); again, Pomegranate helped reduce the damage to testes tissue. The good news for the rats was that Pomegranate reduced the testicular and testosterone damage done by the chemical. Similarly, PFE was shown to protect human fibroblast cells from the UVA- and UVB-induced damage by reducing activation of NFκB, downregulating active caspase 3, and increasing cells in G0/G1 phase . POMx treatment was also found to protect HaCaT cells against UVB-induced photoaging as evidenced by reduction in expression of UVB-induced upregulation of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) (such as MMP-1, -2, -7, and -9) and phosphorylation of MAPK . Treatment of HaCaT cells with POMx prior to UVB irradiation resulted in inhibition of UVB-mediated decrease in glutathione content as well as UVB-induced lipid peroxidation . While UVA was shown to result in increased phosphorylation of STAT3, AKT, mTOR, and ERK1/2 in NHEK, pretreatment with PFE resulted in inhibition of these events in a dose-dependent manner. The photo-protective effects of PFE extend against the harmful effects of UVA radiation as well, shown in a study wherein PFE was evaluated for its effects against UVA-mediated activation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3), AKT, and ERK1/2 in NHEK . Moreover, an improvement of colonic health and a reduction of morphological alterations, provoked by TNBS, was also reported .The results from these studies suggest the usefulness of PFE as a chemopreventive/chemotherapeutic agent against human lung cancer.Given the concerns about obesity resulting from a positive energy imbalance(30), demonstrating beneficial effects of a low-energy extract of pomegranate would be useful.A total of 512 male participants were recruited for the studies involving Asian ginseng, with ages ranging from 18 to 79 y and samples sizes ranging from 8 to 143 participants.High levels of estrogen can result in low levels of testosterone and vice versa.The expression of genes encoding the steroidogenic enzymes within Leydig cells is primarily regulated by the LH, which activates the cyclic adenosine monophosphate (cAMP)/Protein kinase A (PKA) signalling pathway.They contain beneficial compounds like punicalagins and anthocyanins, known for their anti-inflammatory effects that can support heart health and immune function. I like making pomegranate juice right at home, so I can control the taste and consistency myself. Pomegranate juice and pomegranate supplements are a popular way to get a shot of healthy goodness. If you and your partner are trying to get pregnant, it’s time to start glugging the pomegranate juice. The pomegranate peel contains a large number of phenols including flavonoids (anthocyanins, catechins, and other complexed flavonoids) and hydrolyzable tannins (punicalin, pedunculagin, punicalagin, gallic acid and ellagic acid). The authors from Spain reported total polyphenols content of 54.84 mg per acid equivalents/g sample, the flavonoids content of 42.36 mg per rutin equivalent /g sample, and the hydrolyzed tannins content of 21.25 mg per catechin equivalent/g of pomegranate peel sample (Viuda-Martos et al., 2013). To that, in the processing of pomegranate (Punica granatum) approximately 500 g/kg of pomegranate fruit falls on the inedible part - the peel. Therefore, each class of polyphenolic compounds has a wide range of effects on different biological systems. In addition to providing the building blocks necessary for testosterone production, protein is also important for building and maintaining muscle mass, which can help support healthy testosterone levels. Another study published in the “Journal of the International Society of Sports Nutrition” investigated the effects of zinc and magnesium supplementation on testosterone levels in male athletes. One study published in the “Journal of Nutrition” investigated the effects of zinc supplementation on testosterone levels in men with normal zinc levels. While hormone replacement therapy is one option for increasing testosterone levels, it comes with potential side effects and risks. The pomegranate and its products have been evaluated as agents for the prevention and even treatment of several bacterial or virus infections in mice model systems. In addition, the regular consumption of pomegranate may benefit the skeletal tissues of the host . Urolithins inhibit neuroinflammation , while punicalagin inhibits lipopolysaccharide-induced memory impairment via anti-inflammatory and anti-amylogenic mechanisms . They concluded that WPJ and WPOMxl delayed the development of atherosclerosis in diabetic patients through PON1 stabilization and increased the association of PON1 with HDL and its catalytic activity .Including ginger in your diet benefits overall hormone health, particularly testosterone levels.These results suggested that POMx decreased prostate cancer cell survival by inhibiting IGF1 expression.A multivitamin isn’t a steroid, but it provides the “building blocks” for hormonal health.The bromelain and B vitamins contained in bananas are especially important to keep your testosterone levels optimized.The increase of IL-2 production simultaneously with upregulated CD25 expression in the absence of proliferation in our study indicates that the polyphenols from PoPEx can render T cells unresponsive to their IL-2 production.Cocoa products are not just a treat for your taste buds but also beneficial for hormone health.Summary of potential health outcomes of phytoestrogens through the modulation of the endocrine system in (a) thyroids, (b) liver, (c) ovaries, (d) bones, (e) hypothalamic–pituitary–gonadal axis, (f) pancreas, (g) fat tissue, (h) prostate.While IF has benefits, raising testosterone levels isn’t one of them. A similar result was obtained with IGFBP-3; its concentrations were increased by the low dose diet compared with the high dose in the early follicular phase, but they did not differ from those of the control group . The low dose significantly increased IGF-1 concentrations compared to the high dose only in the periovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, although no value was significantly different compared to the control group. It has been hypothesized that phytoestrogens may interfere with the IGF system through their effects on steroid hormone physiology or by disrupting GH and IGF signaling . Apart from higher levels of IGF-1, several cancers also overexpress its receptor IGF-1R, which has a negative impact on their progression. Among many other functions, IGF-1 binds its receptor on osteoblasts and enhances bone formation, so any changes in this hormone will have an impact on bone health . 3. In Vitro Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Pomegranate Extracts or Pomegranate-Derived Bioactive Compounds Ginger contains antioxidants, as all plants do.In contrast to punicic acid that modulates obesity comorbidities such as insulin resistance, diabetes, or systemic inflammation, catalpic acid has a direct effect in reducing adipose tissue accumulation.Punicalin and punicalagin are able to increase the bacterial production of short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) by inducing the growth and metabolism of commensal bacteria.Dihydrotestosterone is the main prostatic androgen responsible for the development of prostate cancer .SPJ contained pomegranate juice with inulin and lactobacillus, SB consisted of water, inulin, lactobacillus, and pomegranate flavoring, and PB contained water and pomegranate flavoring.Characteristics of the study population according to quartiles of dietary pattern scores. Of particular importance are the mechanisms by which antioxidants influence the cellular response against oxidative stress. The potential of pomegranate peel as an antioxidant and therapeutic component in various biological systems is high, according to scientific sources. Several studies have shown the protective effect of ellagic acid, punicalagin, against oxidative stress damage caused by free radicals. It is known that these polyphenolic compounds of pomegranate peel have the most pronounced therapeutic effect. Hamoud et al. discovered that consumption of pomegranate extract pill (1 g/day) for two months caused attenuation in LDL-cholesterol levels and improvement in oxidative stress in hypercholesterolemic subjects . In an RCT, a supplement containing 12 antioxidant fruits including pomegranate was given to 44 males (900 mg/TID for 4 weeks). Although, there are contradictions regarding pomegranate supplementation in cancer treatment, it could be a beneficial anticancer candidate due to components such as ellagic acid. Furthermore, no difference in bioavailability was found between pomegranate juice, liquid extract, or powdered extracts as indicated by the levels of ellagic acid and its metabolites in plasma . One 2018 study done on Taiwanese men linked bread, pastries, and other desserts to lower testosterone levels, decreased muscle mass, and increased body fat (22). In 2013, a study done in male diabetic rats showed that this root increased their testosterone and antioxidant levels (3). A 2001 study on rats found that adding garlic powder to a high-protein diet increased testosterone levels. A Japanese cross-sectional study reported that there was no correlation between soy products and isoflavone intake and serum IGF-1 and IGFBP-3 in 261 premenopausal women . This one-month intervention resulted in a non-significant reduction in IGF-1, but this was likely due to differences in IGF-1 levels at baseline between the placebo and the control group. In the first study, groups of 14 women consumed soy protein isolates providing 8 mg (control), 65 mg (low dose), or 130 mg (high dose) of isoflavones daily for three menstrual cycles. To date, only two RCTs have evaluated phytoestrogen effects on IGF-1 and its binding proteins in premenopausal women. With people looking to eat healthier diets, many people have started avoiding beef and even looking for meat alternatives. It has also been linked to cancer prevention, protection against Alzheimer’s, improving digestion, lower blood pressure and prevention against heart disease, improved memory and more (11). Severe cases of zinc deficiency can lead to hypogonadism, a condition in which their body does not produce enough testosterone (17) which can then further lead to impotence or delayed sexual maturation in younger boys. Further, the activity of hepatic glutathione S-transferase was significantly higher in rats fed with PJ, which probably supports the mechanism of pomegranate chemopreventive activities. The protective effect of the PJ was also evident from the PJ-fed rats’ increased food intake and weight gain. Additionally, PJ was studied for the colon cancer chemopreventive effects in vivo on azoxymethane (AOM)-induced aberrant crypt foci in Fisher 344 male rats that were administered 20% PJ before and after treatment with azoxymethane . The consumption of PSO rich in conjugated linolenic acid in the diet was found to significantly inhibit the growth of azoxymethane-induced colonic adenocarcinomas in male F344 rats without causing any adverse effects . But many fortified cereals offer greater levels of nutrients than their natural, whole cereal counterparts. Among several other benefits, “MUFAs” can reduce LDL (bad) cholesterol and elevate HDL (good) cholesterol, which we need to convert to testosterone. Still don’t believe zinc doesn’t play an important role in keeping your hormones balanced? Red meat, especially steak, also contains leucine, (14) an amino acid that’s valuable in the development, repair, and maintenance of bone and muscle tissue. Data suggests that pomegranate extract down-regulates HR which sensitizes cells to DSBs, growth inhibition, and apoptosis.” Basically, pomegranate polyphenols help your cells kill themselves. A second study also showed that pomegranate juice could reduce bad cholesterol in those with type 2 diabetes and high cholesterol. Researchers discovered that half a glass of pomegranate juice and three dates had enough antioxidants to help protect against heart attacks and strokes. Furthermore, a 2007 study found that drinking 100% pomegranate juice (POM Wonderful brand) actually helped manage erectile dysfunction. Recently, Zhao et al (88) (2019) investigated the modulatory effects of pomegranate pericarp polyphenols on the intestinal microbiota of obese rats. On the other hand, pomegranate reduced the growth of several pro-inflammatory microorganisms, including Methanobrevibacter, Methanosphaera, Anaerofustis, Parvimonas, Romboutsia and Anaerostipes. Moreover, in order to better understand the impact of pomegranate on bacterial growth, Li et al (86) analyzed which of the phenolic compounds was metabolized by Bifidobacterium and Lactobacillus. These studies have concluded that the regular consumption of pomegranate fruit, juice, or even its compounds added in other food products acts beneficially for one’s health and may even protect against or improve the course of several diseases like obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and even some cancer types. The antioxidant activity of bitter vetch seed protein edible films was increased with the addition of pomegranate juice to the film, which formed a solution that resulted in a material with great potential in the active packaging of food systems . The addition of pomegranate juice powder (5%) has been shown to lead to a product with an increased total phenolic content, an increased antioxidant activity, and a higher in vitro bio-accessibility. Pomegranate peel extracts and punicalagin, a polyphenol from pomegranate fruit, have shown growth inhibition on prostate cancer cells and anti-proliferative activity via the induction of apoptosis 45,51. A meta-analysis has demonstrated that 30% of prostate cancer patients are using complementary alternative medicine (CAM) in addition to their standard treatments . Modifiable lifestyle and nutrition habits and the long latency of many problems of men's health make them ideal candidates for prevention as well as complementary treatment strategies. For example, Asian men usually have a significantly lower incidence of and mortality from prostate cancer when compared with men in Western Europe and North America. An autopsy study reported an incidence of BPH of only 8 percent in men during the fourth decade of life, while 50 percent of men have pathological BPH between ages 51 and 60 . Moreover, clinical trials have further supported its use in the treatment of several diseases, in particular in the management of prostate cancer. Pomegranate resulted in an increase in testosterone levels in men above forty, primarily through the ability to decrease the level of oxidative stress, along with overall hormone regulation. Yes, it does as pomegranate juice aids in increasing circulation and helps reduce the amount within the body of cortisol which is a hormone that decreases testosterone – the male sex hormone. Pomegranate can boost your testosterone levels but combining it with a healthy diet, physical activity, stress, and medical advice is more likely to achieve success. For example, inflammation and oxidative stress have an inverse relationship with testosterone, as demonstrated by several human and animal trials (9, 81–83). Despite a lack of robust support for herbal supplementation increasing testosterone concentrations in men, there are potential mechanisms of action. Fenugreek seed extracts also demonstrated efficacy for increasing (calculated) FT and BT concentrations. The remaining studies (25/32) were judged as having some concerns for their risk of bias due to potential biases arising from the randomization process (domain 1) (35–49, 51, 53, 54, 57, 58, 60, 62, 64–66), with Gaffney et al. (38) also being judged as having some concerns for its risk of bias due to missing outcome data (domain 3). Conversely, the study by Rath and Panja (59) was judged to have a high risk of bias since it had some concerns arising from its randomization process (domain 1) and a high risk of bias for its measurement of the outcome (domain 4) and selection of the reported result (domain 5). A decrease in liver CYP450 and increased sleepy effects of pentobarbital was reported after a 4-week administration of pomegranate juice in mice . Some studies showed that pomegranate juice inhibits cytochrome P450 enzymes CYP2C9 and CYP3A in vitro and increases levels of absorbed tolbutamide and carbamazepine, thus altering drug pharmacokinetics. No adverse side effects have been noted in any of these studies, therefore considering safe to consume the fresh fruit or pomegranate juice in general. All these effects described in the different studies contribute to the anti-inflammatory activity of pomegranate as well as its cancer treatment potential. Scientific research finds a positive correlation between pomegranate intake and testosterone level for it can slightly increase testosterone level due to its effectiveness in reducing cortisol level, which is an antioxidant. It found that pomegranate could enhance both testosterone and sexual desire through enhancing blood flow, decreasing antioxidant, and reducing cortisol levels. Testosterone production can be helped by pomegranates through decrease of the oxidative stress and cortisol levels that play a crucial role for testosterone balance. Pomegranates can raise testosterone levels as its characteristic antioxidants can combat factors that affect testosterone negatively by causing oxidative stress. This makes pomegranate an automatic aide in assisting individuals that desire to boost their testosterone levels in a natural manner. The popularity of health benefits of ellagitannins over time as shown by the cumulative number of papers from 2001 to 2016 obtained by a basic search on the PubMed database using “ellagitannins” and “health” as terms search. The structure of punicalagin, the main polyphenolic compound present in pomegranate. Dysfunctional inflammatory responses have also been implicated as contributors to other chronic diseases such as atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, obesity, insulin resistance, and certain neurodegenerative diseases (e.g., Alzheimer’s disease) . Examples of CID include rheumatoid arthritis (RA), inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), asthma, and psoriasis. Chronic inflammatory disease (CID) is a general term used for conditions where persistent inflammation plays a central role in disease pathology . Not only is this hormone responsible for sperm production, but it is also contributes towards sex drive, bone mass, fat distribution, muscle size and strength, and red blood cell production. The antioxidants in onions and other plants can help protect Leydig cells from oxidative damage, but a human male isn't going to get much of a T-boost. However, no high-quality human studies confirm onions significantly increase testosterone. You don't need super fatty cuts, but you do need some saturated fat for healthy hormone production. So, red meat does provide the nutrients needed for healthy testosterone production. Histopathological studies on both sexes of OF-1 mice confirmed the non-toxic effects of the polyphenol antioxidant punicalagin. Many studies have been carried out on the different components derived from pomegranate but no adverse effects have been reported in the examined dosage. In addition, pomegranate compounds could inhibit angiogenesis through the downregulation of vascular endothelial growth factor in cancers. The whole fruit and compounds inhibit TNF-induced MMP-9 promoter activity. Overall, the results obtained from their in vitro study suggested that the phenolic compounds derived from pomegranate and urolithin A exerted a synergistic effect in reducing the cellular toxicity caused by oxidative stress (37). Specifically, the authors of the mentioned study used a pomegranate extract with a total polyphenol content of 61.5% and standardized to punicalagin (~30%) and ellagic acid (~2.3%), while urolithin A was synthesized in their laboratory. However, further studies are required to better understand the mechanisms of action of pomegranate juice phytochemicals (36). Tugcu et al (36) (2017) demonstrated the antioxidant properties of pomegranate juice by using a rat model of diabetes. In this regard, several scientific studies have described the antioxidant effects of pomegranate over the past few years. In this review, Asian ginseng only had 1 study out of 7 demonstrating a positive effect on testosterone concentrations in men; however, its administration reduced cortisol concentrations in adults experiencing high work stress (78). Moreover, in animal studies, the administration of 4-hydroxyisoleucine, an extract from fenugreek seeds, lowered serum cortisol concentrations (77). Additionally, all studies examining the effect of maca on testosterone concentrations have previously been reviewed by Gonzales et al. (70) and were determined to not affect serum concentrations of testosterone. This meta-analysis included 4 studies (42, 58, 63, 64) but did not include 2 of the studies included in this review because it was conducted in late 2018 and excluded studies with a duration 69) conducted a systematic review on all tribulus studies examining various forms of testosterone in animals and humans and concluded that the evidence indicated that it is ineffective at increasing testosterone concentrations in humans. The problem is that there was no control group in the pomegranate juice study. In the three years leading up to the study, participants’ cancer was steadily growing, as measured by the increase in their average PSA levels. Because the study was funded by a pomegranate juice company. The aim of this systematic review was to summarize and critically evaluate randomized controlled trials published on the efficacy of single herbal ingredients on testosterone concentrations, in addition to its fractions or binding proteins, in men (≥18 y). Therefore, the use of alternative options, such as herbs, spices, plants, or their extracts, has been explored as a potential treatment option for AD. Currently, the primary treatment for AD is testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), which may exacerbate pre-existing medical conditions. Embracing Holistic Well-Being: A Journey to a Healthier You Garlic contains allicin, which can reduce cortisol levels. Drinking juiced raw onions also sounds pretty nasty. However, the high oxalate content of spinach may reduce zinc absorption, the other important mineral for testosterone. The taste and physical appearance of salads, yogurt, or desserts are enhanced when the arils of pomegranate are sprinkled on them . Pomegranate have a distinctive combination of sweet and tart flavors, making them a favored option for juices, smoothies, and diverse culinary uses . Internally, the fruit contains numerous small, edible seeds surrounded by juicy, ruby-red arils . Grape skins are rich in resveratrol, a compound that has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Pyridoxine, more commonly known as vitamin B6 (30), also offers an abundance of benefits, including the release of androgens, which in turn can increase your T production. Several of the fruit’s key nutrients and vitamins are major testosterone boosters. As such, pomegranates can help reduce stress as well as the risk of cardiovascular disease, combat viruses, and bacteria (26), and suppress inflammatory arthritis (27). Pomegranates contain more than 60 hydrolyzable tannins, many of which account for the fruit’s antioxidant power. Specifically, epicatechin (18), which is a catechin (17) epimer, increased the activity of Hsd17b3. Hesperidin glycoside, found in citrus fruits such as lemon and oranges, has been reported to reverse vanadium-induced decline in testosterone serum levels in male rats . Taxifolin (13) has been shown to inhibit androgen production in immature rat Leydig cells by inhibiting the activities of Hsd3b and Cyp17a1 enzymes . Recently, rutin (12) (Figure 6), a glycosylated quercetin (7) found in citrus fruits, was shown to reverse the decreased levels of serum testosterone, LH, and FSH, as well as the impaired sperm quality, induced by carbon tetrachloride in male rats . However, others have reported that icariin (11) induces apoptosis in mouse Leydig tumor cells (mLTC1) , suggesting an anticancer potential. But before we get to these smoothies, let’s go through the best ingredients for smoothies to increase testosterone. All these studies will provide all the necessary scientific evidence that is required in order to fully understand the potential of pomegranate as a source of natural food preservatives and a therapeutic agent. Therefore, several studies have been carried out and must continue to be carried out in order to ascertain the safe use of these edible natural compounds. Though pomegranate is a food and is therefore regarded as safe, this judgement is not applied to its extracts, such as its peel and seed extracts, and further research is needed to determine their safe limits . Therefore, pomegranate, which presents extremely high antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, has a great potential for applications in food products. Braidy et al (55) (2016) explored the anti-aging properties of pomegranate in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease. Of note, the expression levels of IL-1A and IL-6 were significantly decreased in the treated colonic tissues compared to the control in a concentration-dependent manner. Similarly, all treatments also decreased the production of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) and cyclooxygenase 2 (COX-2), two enzymes that play a key role in promoting inflammation (47). Following treatment, it was observed that all the tested polyphenols significantly reduced the release of nitric oxide (NO) and prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), two important mediators generally upregulated in inflammatory processes, in a concentration-dependent manner. At the same time, dysfunctional inflammatory responses have been implicated in the development of other non-communicable diseases, including obesity, diabetes, insulin resistance, atherosclerosis and illnesses affecting the nervous system (42). In clinical trials, the consumption of pomegranate polyphenols reduced lipid peroxidation metabolites (such as malondialdehyde, MDA) and increased the total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and paraoxonase-1 (PON1) activity . Pomegranates are rich in phytoconstituents which show numerous beneficial health proprieties, such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antidiabetic and cardiovascular, along with anti-dyslipidemia, antibacterial, antiviral and anticancer activity. Of note, punicic acid is a conjugated α-linoleic acid that showed benefits against skin cancer , as well as anti-diabetic , anti-inflammatory, anti-obesity and antioxidant effects . The effects of patient sera following pomegranate consumption on proliferation and apoptosis induction on LNCaP prostate cancer cells in vitro were measured. Maintaining healthy testosterone levels in the body is essential, especially for men. In addition to pomegranates, several other natural remedies can help boost testosterone levels. As we age, testosterone levels naturally decline, which can lead to various health issues. This article delves into the nutritional value of pomegranates, their potential effects on hormone levels, and how they can fit into a balanced diet aimed at enhancing overall wellness. Regular consumption of pomegranate juice has been linked to improved blood flow, reduced arterial plaque, and decreased levels of LDL (the “bad” cholesterol). As long as you don’t have any allergies, eggs are a nutritious and healthy food that can benefit your health. On top of that, EVOO is loaded with healthy fat that can positively impact your overall health. While not food per se, extra-virgin olive oil is one of the best testosterone boosters for men who are suffering from hormonal issues. Alternatively, you can also take Omega-3 supplements to get your fatty acid fill. If you’re looking for an aphrodisiac or a type of food that can increase sexual desirability, some people say that oysters fit that bill. At the same time, pomegranate and its phytocompounds may represent an adjuvant for the currently available treatments against the previously discussed diseases, able not only to support the therapeutic effects, but also to reduce their side effects. Anticancer effects of pomegranate derivatives and its phytochemicals. Recently, Ganesan et al (100) (2020) conducted an in vitro study in order to explore the anticancer potential of punicalagin, one of the most abundant phenols contained in pomegranate. PFE treated A549 cells displayed a dose-dependent arrest of cells in the G0/G1 phase of the cell cycle, which was linked to induction of WAF1/p21 and KIP1/p27 and a decrease in the expression of cyclins and cdks. The study concluded that consumption of PJ did not result in a significant decline in PSA levels compared to placebo. To determine the effects of PFE treatment on PSADT in PCa patients with rising PSA after primary therapy, a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study was performed. Treatment of PCa patients with POMx increased the PSADT by almost six months in both the treatment arms . A randomized, multi-center, double-blind phase II study was performed to determine the biological activity of two doses of POMx in PCa patients by monitoring PSADT following initial therapy for localized PCa. This rich nutritional profile contributes to their status as a superfood and may play a role in overall health and wellness. Pomegranates are not only delicious but also packed with essential nutrients and antioxidants. Pomegranates have long been celebrated for their vibrant color, unique taste, and numerous health benefits. While this article has touched on many of the benefits of pomegranates, there’s still a lot more to discover. Unsweetened, dark organic cocoa powder or cacao nibs can be healthy choices.The antioxidant potential of pomegranate juice is more than that of red wine and green tea, which is induced through ellagitannins and hydrosable tannins.Tricetin, luteolin, punicalagin, EA, apigenin and granatin B showed a relevant inhibitory activity on α-glucosidase, α-amylase and lipase, similar to the antidiabetic drug Acarbose, thus reducing the absorption of glucose in the gastrointestinal tract .Even if it isn’t for your health that you eat it, pomegranates are a global treat.It focuses on the essentials—heart, bone, and muscle health—without unnecessary fillers or “proprietary blends” that hide ingredient amounts.Furthermore, pomegranate juice may interact with certain medications, including statins and blood pressure drugs, by inhibiting enzymes crucial for these drugs’ metabolism.Because oysters have such high levels of the mineral zinc, they make up some of the best foods to boost testosterone production in the body, if your low testosterone is caused by a zinc deficiency (4).The largest observational study included 301 women from The Netherlands and used food frequency questionnaires to assess dietary isoflavone and lignan intake. After lung cancer, the second leading cause of male cancer death is prostate cancer worldwide. Table 1 Shows pomegranate's nutrient values for 100 g of raw edible portion The pomegranate tree's bark and roots are rich sources of chemicals called alkaloids. This outcome indicates a potential benefit of pomegranate extracts for women experiencing menopause. Furthermore, the menopausal rating scales and Kupperman index scores significantly decreased in the group that consumed pomegranate extract. The group that received pomegranate extract exhibited a significant reduction in HF score, HF visual analog scale (VAS), HF duration, and sweating VAS, indicating a notable decrease in patients’ HFs and sweating. Clinical trials of pomegranate extract for the treatment of peri- and post-menopausal symptoms have been reported. Furthermore, its anti-estrogenic properties might be advantageous in the treatment of hormone-dependent breast cancer . Which is why keep your levels at the right level is optimal for good health. You probably think of testosterone as “the sex hormone.” But testosterone plays a number of vital roles in your body, from helping to maintain muscle and bone growth to boosting energy. PJ consumption provided an increase in epididymal sperm concentration, sperm motility, spermatogenic cell density and diameter of seminiferous tubules and germinal cell layer thickness, and it decreased abnormal sperm rate when compared to the control group. We all know fruits are healthy, but they are also sweet. Instead, it may help balance hormones and support overall reproductive health in both men and women. This suggests that including pomegranate juice in the diet could offer some relief during menopause (source). Phytoestrogens in pomegranate juice can help mimic estrogen, potentially reducing the frequency and intensity of hot flashes. Also read this- is pomegranate juice good for stomach These phytoestrogens can attach to estrogen receptors in your cells and produce mild estrogen-like effects. A buddy of mine, always keen to try natural remedies, started incorporating pomegranate juice into his diet. These compounds are known to reduce oxidative stress, a leading cause of reduced testosterone production in the testes. And let’s not forget the juice, which has been shown to have three times the antioxidant activity of red wine and green tea. That same study, I should mention, explained that both the peel and the juice have the same catechins responsible for antioxidant benefits. As discussed, pomegranates are a known source of powerful antioxidants, more so than green tea or red wine, according to one study. Hypoglycaemic activity in streptozotocin-induced diabetes has been reported due to treatment with pomegranate seed methanol extract in rats . In line with these results, the modulation of PPARγ by pomegranate juice resulted in reduced oxidative stress in macrophages in vitro . In line with these results, macrophages treated with pomegranate juice standardized to a polyphenol concentration of 75 mmol/L for 90 minutes showed a decreased degradation of oxidized LDL as well as reduced macrophage cholesterol synthesis and oxidative stress . The levels of insulin required to elicit this same effect increase as the condition worsens, thus enhancing the insulin production in the pancreas. Such decreased physiological insulin levels become less effective at lowering the blood sugar levels by triggering the uptake of glucose into cells as an energy source. Antioxidants are important since they have several important biological properties such as anti-inflammatory and antiaging protection against cholesterol and atherosclerosis . A PubMed search on November 23, 2012, retrieves 677 publications related to pomegranate, 619 of which have been published within the last ten years and 425 in the last five. Although pomegranate has been consumed and used as a medicinal food in the Middle East for thousands of years, it has recently gained popularity in the United States . In vitro studies have shown that pomegranate extract can suppress the growth of prostate cancer cells in a petri dish by up to 95 percent. In another study, ellagic acid increased expression of Regulated upon Activation, Normal T-cell Expressed and Presumably Secreted (RANTES), IL-2, and IL-1β by primary human gingival epithelial cells. Tugcu et al., 2017, demonstrated that the activity of GSH and GSH-Px was increased following the administration of pomegranate juice, while no statistically significant difference was found for SOD among the treated and untreated groups . Others have reported that genistein (6) exposure was also able to inhibit testosterone production from fetal mouse testes by decreasing StAR, Cyp11a1, Hsd3b1, and Cyp17a1 expression levels . Having phytoestrogenic effects, isoflavones such as daidzein (5) and genistein (6) (Figure 4) may disrupt the paracrine signalling by estrogen between Sertoli and Leydig cells. However, since adult Leydig cells produce higher levels of estrogen , the physiological significance of estrogen-mediated regulatory interactions between Sertoli cells and Leydig cells remains to be better defined. In a clinical study, 20 patients with chronic gingivitis used pomegranate or chlorhexidine mouthwash (10 ml twice daily for 15 days). These data indicated the potential use of pomegranate extracts in toothpastes and mouthwashes . This study did not provide antiplaque and antigingivitis effects for P. granatum gel . A gel containing 10% P. granatum extract was evaluated in a cross-over, double-blind study on 23 volunteers for 2 phases of 21 days each. Mutans levels was investigated in a randomized clinical double-blinded study on 80 children subclassified into 4 groups. For example, as demonstrated in (Metsämuuronen and Sirén, 2019) methylation of polyphenolic compounds hydroxyl groups intensifies biological activity of stilbenes and O-methylation of hydroxyl groups in flavonoids decreases their reactivity and improves their antimicrobial properties. Polyphenols are thus classified according to their origin, polyphenol function, and chemical structure, and major groups include flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenoids, and lignans with thousands of compounds in each group (Fig. 1) (Ofosu et al., 2020). Evidence that fruits and vegetables, along with other plant foods, are important components of a healthy diet is based on a large body of scientific research showing that their consumption helps prevent chronic diseases. This was the first clinical study to provide evidence beyond preclinical investigations of the biologic activity of pomegranate juice consumption on recurrent prostate cancer. The most striking evidence for the biological activity of pomegranate extracts was demonstrated in prostate cancer cells. There is no specific dosage for pomegranate to boost testosterone, but studies suggest that a daily intake of 8-16 ounces of pomegranate juice or 1-2 whole pomegranates may provide health benefits. Research suggests that both fresh pomegranate and pomegranate juice contain beneficial compounds, but juice may offer higher concentrations of antioxidants due to the extraction process. This suggests that not only does regular consumption of pomegranate juice promise to elevate testosterone levels, but it also promotes a more resilient body in general. The mighty fruit contains minute quantities of weak phytoestrogens however it serves as a source of numerous effective anti-estrogenic substances. Therefore, with a shooting blood pressure, nitric oxide can be of great service as it lowers the blood pressure to normal levels and with its dilating properties it can also help in improving the quality of erection. And that’s not all; pomegranate is also packed with dietary nitrates that, with the help of tongue and bacteria present in the gut, are converted into NO. With that in mind, let’s look at a list of top food solutions for optimal testosterone levels, according to experts. And diet’s influence on testosterone levels is significant yet often overlooked. Lifestyle factors like poor diet, chronic stress, lack of sleep, and environmental toxins have contributed to declining testosterone levels, even in younger men, according to Justin Pulliam, CEO of Vida Vital Medical. Beyond its influence on male development, testosterone is crucial for overall health and well-being. Additionally, it promotes secondary sexual characteristics like increased muscle mass, higher bone density, body hair growth, and a deepening of the voice. Testosterone is made from cholesterol, which is converted into pregnenolone, a hormone that is then converted into testosterone. However, the synergistic action of the pomegranate constituents appears to be superior when compared to individual constituents. Yes, they are and this is according to one 2020 study done by The Journal of Urology. According to one 2018 study, licorice root can inhibit the symptoms of PCOS in female rats (15). However, this root should not be among your list of natural foods to boost testosterone as it may lower it. If you are looking for foods to boost testosterone, then dairy and its products should be avoided if not scrapped off your diet for good. A fixed Venturi-shaped HC reactor applied to the treatment of biochar showed an enhancement of specific surface area by as much as 120%, due to the increase in meso- and micro-porosity, successfully exceeding conventional thermal methods . A rotor-stator HC device used to treat wastewater effluents showed a four-fold decrease of particle size and a remarkable increase of specific surface area . Applications for a few different foodstuff showing remarkable particle size reduction, such as tomato juice, milk protein concentrate and orange waste peel, were reviewed in Chapters 7 and 8 of a recent review . Many studies have reported the role and importance of pomegranate peel polyphenolic compounds, including flavonoids, as a rich source of natural antioxidants in various biological systems. As indicated in Table 2, a number of other studies have shown that the major antioxidant compounds of pomegranate peel are unique to this plant. Table 1 presents some of the most studied plant sources with high content of polyphenolic compounds and their antioxidant activity, which has a positive effect on human health. This review presents recently published results on the use of promising by-products from pomegranate peels in various biological systems, focusing on the antioxidant activity of phenolic compounds from pomegranate peels. The therapeutic effects of plant sources are partly explained by phenolic secondary metabolites or polyphenolic compounds. Incorporating these fruits into your diet is unlikely to harm your fertility, but they should be seen as part of an overall healthy lifestyle rather than a miracle solution. Most studies have been small, and larger clinical trials are needed to fully confirm the effects. It also supports bone health by reducing your osteoporosis risk and is chock full of folic acid and antioxidants. Testosterone is a key hormone for overall health, and eating the right foods can help keep your levels balanced. While there are many foods that can help boost testosterone, there are also some foods that can lower testosterone levels. Drinking a small glass of pomegranate juice each day can also provide benefits. Studies suggest that ginger can boost the production of luteinizing hormone, which helps the body produce testosterone. Some differences regarding the phenolic composition are found between natural and commercial juices as well as between juices obtained from the arils alone or from the whole fruit . Pomegranate juice is a rich source of polyphenols, tannins, anthocyanins, including vitamin C, vitamin E, coenzyme Q10, and lipoic acid . Punicalagin can be found in the seeds, peels, and juice of pomegranate, and it is unique to pomegranate. Ellagitannins present in the pomegranate peel include punicalagin and punicalin, both of which contain the polyphenolic chemical compound gallagic acid, which is the building block for several tannins. Pomegranate extract might be beneficial for maintaining hormonal equilibrium by regulating estrogen levels during menopause-induced hormonal changes . Research has shown that pomegranate extract is potentially beneficial in alleviating common menopausal symptoms, such as HFs and night sweats . After menopause, there is a notable increase in the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) due to declining estrogen levels. Moreover, pomegranates are known to contain several sterol compounds, including campesterol, daucosterol, and sitosteryl-acetate .