All About Urolithin: Understanding the Basics of This Powerful Nutrient

By Natalie Meriwether, BSN

What is Urolithin?

Urolithin A (UA) is an interesting nutrient that has gained recent popularity for its potential benefits. The metabolite is formed by gut bacteria after consuming ellagitannins. Ellagitannins are a type of polyphenol found in foods like pomegranates, nuts, and berries. 

Mitochondrial Function and Urolithin

You have probably heard that mitochondria are the “powerhouses” of the cell, but what does that mean? In humans, the mitochondria are where cellular respiration takes place. Cellular respiration is the process of converting nutrients into energy for the cells in our muscles and other body parts to utilize.¹ However, as we age mitochondrial health may decline due to the natural slowing of mitophagy, a quality control process for mitochondria.² Urolithin A has been clinically shown to renew mitochondria .^† The health of mitochondria can help support cellular energy and muscle strength.^{^*}

Sources of Urolithin

While UA isn’t sourced from food directly, some gut bacteria can synthesize it after eating foods containing ellagitannins. Foods containing these polyphenols include pomegranates, black raspberries, strawberries, walnuts, and almonds. However, even when eating these foods, some people do not have the right gut microbiome to produce UA.

Solgar Cellular Strength & Renewal

Takeaway

Urolithin A is a unique nutrient and may offer potential health benefits. By supporting the health of mitochondria, it can help support cellular health and muscle strength.^{^*} Although UA can be synthesized in the gut after consuming ellagitannin-containing foods, some people still may not have the right gut bacteria to produce it.³

References:

^{1.    Dunn J, Grider MH. Physiology, Adenosine Triphosphate. [Updated 2023 Feb 13]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2023 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK553175/
2.    Faitg J, D’Amico D, Rinsch C, Singh A. Int. 2023 Nov 5. Doi: 10.1007/s00223-023-01145-5. Epub ahead of print. PMID: 37925671.
3.    Andreux PA et al. Nature Metab. 2019;1:595-603.
†In two studies, Urolithin A has been shown to improve mitochondrial efficiency shown by select biomarkers in middle aged and elderly subjects.
^In one study, Urolithin A increased the strength of the hamstring muscle in middle-aged overweight adults.}

^{* These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.}