Pomegranates combined with beneficial gut bacteria could help to improve treatments for Inflammatory Bowel Disease

A new study published in the journal Nature Communications from the University of Louisville, Kentucky has identified a natural compound that could help to improve treatments for Inflammatory Bowel Disease.  Urolithin A, a compound produced as a result of the interaction between gut bacteria and polyphenols found in pomegranates and other fruits, particularly berries (Ellagic acid found in pomegranates and berries interacts with a particular strain of bacteria found in the gut called Bifidobacterium Pseudocatenulatum).

The researchers explained that although they encourage the consumption of pomegranates and berries it may not lessen the symptoms of Inflammatory Bowel Disease if an individual does not have sufficient levels of the appropriate bacteria in their gut microbiota.  Lead researcher Venkatakrishna Rao Jala said, “Microbes in our gut have evolved to generate beneficial microbial metabolites in the vicinity of the gut barrier.  However this requires we protect and harbour the appropriate gut microbiota and consume a healthy diet.”