Do you often feel severe stomach pain? It could be a symptom of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). IBD is a disorder that causes inflammation in the digestive system There is no definite cause of IBD, however, several factors including compromised immune system, a high-protein diet, the presence of bacterial, viral, or parasitic infections and smoking can trigger IBD.

There are several treatments that can be used to treat IBD symptoms, such as medication and surgery. In addition, maintaining a healthy diet can also help reduce the risk of IBD. A recent study conducted by the University of Louisville found that pomegranates can help treat inflammatory bowel disease.

The researchers explained that pomegranates can help the body to produce urolithin A (UroA) compounds. UroA compounds are metabolite products produced as a result of interactions between intestinal bacteria and certain polyphenols contained in pomegranates. Not only pomegranates, they can also be produced if you consume berries.

UroA can play a role as ‘bridges’ between cells in the body that form intestinal layer tissue and prevent the passage of poisons that can cause inflammation. Experts believe that UroA has anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative properties that can prevent inflammation.

Although UroA can be produced by the body, its availability is greatly influenced by food intake and existing intestinal bacteria. Therefore, maintaining a healthy diet is highly recommended to maintain overall health. Adding pomegranates or other berries to your daily intake can also be a way to protect your digestive system.

Text by Anggie Triana
Stock photos from Pixabay

Source(s):

• Singh, R., Chandrashekharappa, S., Bodduluri, S.R., et all (2019). Enhancement of the gut barrier integrity by a microbial metabolite through the Nrf2 pathway. Nature Communications, DOI: doi.org/10.1038/s41467-018-07859-7.
• Medical News Today - Can you offer the key to new IBD treatments? (2019). https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324164.php, March 13, 2019.