By the way, doctor: Does pomegranate juice interfere with medications?
Q. Pomegranate juice is supposed to be a health food, but I've heard that it can interfere with some medications, the way grapefruit juice can. I take Lipitor and wonder if I should be concerned.
A. Pomegranate juice has stepped into the nutrition limelight as a rich source of antioxidants, which are thought to have many healthful effects, including a reduced risk for heart disease, macular degeneration, and certain cancers. Antioxidants are important because they counteract free radicals, which are harmful, unstable molecules that arise during normal energy metabolism and in response to certain environmental factors. Some antioxidants are made by the body, and others are found in food.
To continue reading this article, you must log in.
Subscribe to Harvard Health Online for immediate access to health news and information from Harvard Medical School.
- Research health conditions
- Check your symptoms
- Prepare for a doctor's visit or test
- Find the best treatments and procedures for you
- Explore options for better nutrition and exercise
I'd like to receive access to Harvard Health Online for only $4.99 a month.
Sign Me UpAlready a member? Login ».
Disclaimer:
As a service to our readers, Harvard Health Publishing provides access to our library of archived content. Please note the date of last review or update on all articles.
No content on this site, regardless of date, should ever be used as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor or other qualified clinician.
