Citrus and pomegranate complex supports physical fitness and mental wellbeing of elderly subjects in recent study

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A recent study published in the Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging¹ investigated the effects of a citrus and pomegranate complex (Actiful from BioActor BV, based in Maastricht, The Netherlands) on the physical fitness and mental well-being of healthy elderly subjects between the ages of 60 and 75. In the randomized, placebo-controlled cross-over trial, 36 subjects were either given the complex (two 350 mg gelatin capsules) or placebo daily for four weeks. After a four-week washout period, the intervention was switched for each subject for another four weeks. Subjects performed a handgrip strength test and senior fitness test, as well as a Quality of Life (WHO-QOL-100) questionnaire and gave blood samples before the start and upon completing each four week intervention period.

Results showed a significant improvement in hand grip strength compared to placebo, as well as a time treatment interaction on the psychological function domain of the WHO-QOL-100 questionnaire. Researchers investigating the five facets that make up psychological function separately, which include: positive feelings; thinking, learning, memory, and concentration; self-esteem; bodily image and appearance; and negative feelings. Results showed that supplementation resulted in a significant time treatment effect for thinking, learning, memory, and concentration, compared to placebo. Blood samples also showed significant reductions in malondialdehyde (MDA), a biomarker of oxidative stress, compared to placebo.

Reference

1. Ahles S. et al. “The effect of a citrus and pomegranate Ccomplex on physical fitness and mental well-being in healthy elderly: A randomized placebo-controlled trial.” Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, vol. 26 (2022); 839-846, https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s12603-022-1834-4