Can pomegranate lower blood pressure?
Generally, pomegranate has a certain auxiliary effect in lowering blood pressure, but its effectiveness is limited and cannot replace standard antihypertensive medication. Detailed analysis is as follows:
Pomegranate offers some auxiliary benefits in lowering blood pressure because it contains potassium, a mineral that helps balance sodium levels in the body, reducing the adverse effects of sodium on blood vessels and assisting in maintaining normal vascular dilation. At the same time, the polyphenols in pomegranate have certain antioxidant properties that help protect the vascular endothelium and contribute positively to maintaining vascular elasticity. These characteristics collectively provide only a minor supportive effect in regulating blood pressure. However, such auxiliary effects can only mildly influence blood pressure and cannot directly control blood pressure levels or replace the therapeutic effects of prescribed antihypertensive medications.
When consuming pomegranate to assist in blood pressure regulation, it is important to control the quantity to avoid excessive sugar intake, which could burden the body—especially for individuals with elevated blood sugar levels. Do not discontinue or reduce prescribed antihypertensive medications based on reliance on pomegranate's auxiliary effects, as this may cause blood pressure fluctuations. Individuals with abnormal blood pressure should follow medical advice, adhere to standardized treatment, and incorporate pomegranate as part of their daily diet rather than relying on it as a primary method for lowering blood pressure. Additionally, pomegranate should be thoroughly washed before consumption to ensure food safety.