Aging impairs mitochondrial function, disrupting the heart’s energy supply. Over time, this energy shortfall undermines cardiac cell function, driving the heart’s gradual decline. A recent study found that supplemental urolithin A—a bioactive compound derived from pomegranates and walnuts—boosts mitochondrial health and reduces pro-inflammatory lipids called ceramides, ultimately enhancing cardiac function.

Researchers investigated the effects of supplemental urolithin A in models of natural aging in mice and heart failure in rats and assessed its effects on plasma ceramide levels in healthy older adults. Mice received 50 milligrams per kilogram of urolithin A daily (in food) for eight weeks, rats received 50 milligrams per milliliter (in water) for 24 hours following a simulated heart attack, and the older adults took 1 gram of urolithin A (via supplement) or a placebo daily for two to four months.

Supplemental urolithin A improved systolic and diastolic cardiac function in models of natural aging and heart failure—an effect of the restoration of mitochondrial structure and enhanced mitophagy at the cellular level. Four months of urolithin A supplementation in healthy older adults significantly lowered plasma ceramides.

Ceramides are a class of bioactive lipids that contribute to cardiovascular disease by promoting inflammation, insulin resistance, and lipid accumulation in arteries. Elevated ceramide levels are linked to a higher risk of atherosclerosis and adverse cardiac events.

Urolithin A is a byproduct of gut microbial metabolism of ellagic acid, a bioactive compound found in pomegranates and walnuts. The capacity to form urolithin A from ellagic acid varies considerably from person to person (depending on gut microbial composition) and decreases with age. Pterostilbene, a compound found in blueberries and some supplements, boosts urolithin A conversion. Learn more in this clip featuring Dr. Rhonda Patrick.