Pomegranates contain natural substances that help improve memory and aid in the treatment of Alzheimer's disease. (Source: Shutterstock)

This study was published in the journal Alzheimer's & Dementia . According to Professor Vilhelm Bohr, Department of Cell and Molecular Medicine, University of Copenhagen, Head of the research team, the team conducted tests on a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease and discovered that urolithin A - a natural substance found in pomegranates - can help treat neurological problems, including Alzheimer's disease.

The study is now being planned for clinical trials in humans.

Alzheimer's disease is an irreversible brain disease that gradually destroys memory, language and thinking skills, eventually leaving patients unable to complete even the smallest tasks. The disease usually progresses slowly, beginning with mild, transient forgetfulness.

On average, people with Alzheimer's disease can only live for about 8-10 years from the time of diagnosis. However, there are still cases of longer life if detected early and treated properly.

Many patients with neurodegenerative diseases have mitochondrial dysfunction, also known as degenerative myopathy, said Vilhelm Bohr. People with this disease have difficulty removing weak mitochondria, which accumulate over time and affect brain function.

Restarting the system that clears the amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles characteristic of Alzheimer's keeps the whole system running smoothly for a while, the researchers say. And if cell division is stimulated, it helps clear out the weakened mitochondria, leading to positive neuronal improvement, Vilhelm Bohr explains.

Although the research was conducted on a mouse model, the outlook is still very promising, said expert Bohr.

Research is still inconclusive about how much urolithin A is needed to improve memory and reduce Alzheimer's symptoms. “We can't say anything about the dose yet, but we think it's probably more than one pomegranate a day.

However, it could be available in pill form and we are trying to find the right dosage,” the professor said. He hopes that it could also be used for preventive purposes without significant side effects.