Our cells use the oxygen we inhale to produce energy. As energy is produced in our cells, some oxygen molecules (known as oxygen free radicals or reactive oxygen species) are produced as a byproduct of these processes.

Free radicals are active atoms or molecules that have a strong affinity with other molecules around them, and if their combined activity is not prevented, they lead to tissue destruction and the occurrence of disorders such as heart diseases and cancer.

Pomegranate juice has 0.2-1% of polyphenolic compounds and flavonoids, which ranks it higher than other fruit juices and drinks. Polyphenol compounds are powerful antioxidants that protect biological systems from free radicals.

Studies have shown that some polyphenols are destroyed when heat is applied, but not all of them and what remains can still be important against oxidative stress damage.