Figure 9.
Bioactive compounds and protective effects of kiwifruit (Actinidia deliciosa), pomegranate (Punica granatum), papaya (Carica papaya), pineapple (Ananas comosus) and watermelon (Citrullus lanatus). The mechanism of action involves reduction of thrombosis, atherosclerosis and blood pressure via lowering platelets’ responsiveness to collagen and ADP, reducing ACE activity, oxidative stress, inflammation and regulation of blood cholesterol levels.
Abbreviations: ADP, adenosine diphosphate; ACE, angiotensin-converting enzyme.