Scientifically Good

Bergamot

Citrus Bergamia

Nestled at the tip of Italy’s boot by the Ionian Sea, in Reggio Calabria, the bergamot orange (Citrus bergamia) grows. This fragrant fruit, with a glossy rind that matures from green to bright yellow, is found virtually nowhere else on Earth. It offers a light, fresh, citrus taste with a kick of tartness and an abundance of flavonoids.

Supports Healthy Cholesterol

Several studies have shown that the bergamot orange may help to reduce overall cholesterol and "bad" LDL cholesterol. It may also help to increase "good" HDL cholesterol and has the potential to be an effective supplement to cholesterol drugs.

Anti-inflammatory

Studies have shown that citrus bergamot reduces inflammation and may improve a number of inflammatory-related diseases, such as fatty liver disease and IBD.

In one study done on mice subjected to experimental colitis, bergamot juice flavonoids reduced numerous pro-inflammatory compounds and showed anti-inflammatory effects against colon inflammation. The researchers concluded that these effects may translate well to inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) treatment in humans.*

*“The anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects of bergamot juice extract in an experimental model of inflammatory bowel disease.” Science Direct, Clinical Nutrition- Volume 34, Issue 6, December 2015, Pages 1146-1154

Promotes Healthy Blood Sugar

Balanced blood sugar is important for maintaining energy levels and supporting the organ function necessary for avoiding long-term illnesses such as diabetes or kidney disease, per the CDC. “Elevated blood sugar, known as hyperglycemia, occurs when a person consumes too much sugar in their diet. A flavonoid found in citrus bergamot, called naringin, has been shown to promote balanced blood sugar.” Researchers believe that naringin works in the body to improve glucose sensitivity and glucose tolerance.

Integr Food Nutr Metab. 2019 Mar; 6(2): 10.15761/IFNM.1000249.
https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31057945/

"In a month-long study of 77 patients published in 2013 in the International Journal of Cardiology, 1,000 milligrams daily of bergamot extract lowered cholesterol from an average of 278 milligrams per deciliter of blood to 191. “Bergamot polyphenolic fraction enhances rosuvastatin-induced effect on LDL-cholesterol, LOX-1 expression and protein kinase B phosphorylation in patients with hyperlipidemia".
https://www.internationaljournalofcardiology.com/article/S0167-5273%2813%2901708-7/abstract

A 2015 study conducted by the Journal of Clinical Lipidology suggests that citrus bergamot may inhibit cholesterol absorption in the gut. “Citrus Bergamot Improves Atherogenic Lipoprotein Particle Characteristics in Patients With Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease and Metabolic Syndrome."
https://www.lipidjournal.com/article/S1933-2874(15)00186-5/fulltext

Pomegranate

Pomum Granatum

The primary reason that pomegranates are considered a superfruit or superfood, is due to their high antioxidant content.

Antioxidants for Overall Health

Pomegranates are rich in antioxidants, which protect your body from damage and promote health. They can help prevent premature aging, support heart health, reduce cancer risk, and keep your skin and cells healthy.

Fighting Inflammation

Chronic inflammation can lead to various health issues like heart disease and diabetes. Pomegranates' antioxidants may help reduce inflammation, lowering the risk of these conditions and even supporting brain health, including Alzheimer's prevention.

Digestive Health and IBD

Pomegranate juice, thanks to its polyphenols, might benefit those with Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) and other digestive problems.

Potassium for Vital Functions

Potassium is essential for cell functioning, muscle and nerve health, and protein synthesis. Pomegranates can help balance potassium levels, crucial for maintaining healthy blood pressure and overall well-being.

Boosting Metabolism

Pomegranate juice promotes a healthy gut bacterium that aids in combating obesity, metabolic syndrome, and diabetes*.

Sexual Health and Testosterone

Studies suggest that pomegranates may help increase testosterone levels, important for muscle growth, bone health, and brain function, particularly as we age.

Anti-Cancer and Gut-Brain Benefits

Pomegranates contain ellagitannins and ellagic acid, which have anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory properties. They support gut health and brain wellness by inhibiting prostate cancer cell growth and enhancing the gut-brain axis.

Goji Berry

Lycium Barbarum

The goji berry, which has long been part of Chinese traditional medicine, is now being viewed as a superfood beyond China. In 2013, a young group of Italian growers noted that the climate and soil conditions in Calabria would be highly favorable for the cultivation of this red berry fruit packed with antioxidants and powerful properties. They made a commitment to grow this renowned fruit without the use of pesticides or fertilizers and incorporate it into the Mediterranean diet.

Rich in Nutrients and a Natural Energy Booster

Some early studies using goji berry juice found that there may be possible benefits that include:

• a feeling of well-being and calmness

• better focus

• better athletic performance

• better sleep

• weight loss

• increased energy levels

• a boost to your immune system

• may improve eye health

• higher antioxidant levels

Antioxidant-Rich

Some of the primary antioxidants found in goji berries include polysaccharides, carotenoids, and phenolics. Each of these compounds is related to the vast health benefits that goji berries offer.

•Polysaccharides—a type of carbohydrate—are found in goji berries in the form of arabinose, galactose, glucose, rhamnose, mannose, xylose, and galacturonic acid. These polysaccharides are known to support energy production, digestive health, and cardio-protection (the protection of the health of the heart).

•Carotenoids are responsible for the bright orange and red color of goji berries and provide a specific carotenoid called zeaxanthin, which is advantageous for eye health. The level of zeaxanthin is in goji berries is higher than in any other plant.

•Phenolics acid and flavonoids are known for their antiviral, anti-cancer, and anti-inflammatory activities, protecting the body from chronic disease. The high antioxidant quality of phenolics and flavonoids in goji berries makes them an advantageous antioxidant as well as a nutritive and immune-boosting source.

Oxid Med Cell Longev. 2019; 2019: 2437397.

Published online 2019 Jan 9. doi: 10.1155/2019/2437397

While consuming pomegranate, bergamot, and goji berry juice(s) cannot replace a healthy and active lifestyle or fulfill all your dietary requirements, incorporating these superfruits into your diet can be a beneficial addition to promote overall health and well-being.