QUESTION: What is ellagic acid and in what foods does it naturally occur ?
ANSWER: Ellagic acid/ ellagitannin is an antioxidant and phenolic acid found in strawberries, raspberries, pomegranates, other fruits and vegetables, and some nuts.
Its been in the news due to studies which refer to its anticarcinogenic properties and general antioxidant benefits. Some sources refer to its antibacterial and antiviral characteristics. Research studies point to ellagic acid as having properties that protect DNA and for its potential to provide antioxidant benefits to the skin.
Ellagic acid is not new. It has always been a naturally occurring compound however with advances in modern science our ability to isolate active constituents and study their behavior has become more advanced. Ellagic acid is just one of numerous naturally occurring antioxidant phytochemicals that science tells us has potential health benefits.
Joe Sale, CNS, CSCS
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