PHASE 2: clinical intervention
500-kcal deficit diet
Upon meeting the eligibility criteria and providing written consent, all participants in this study were divided into control and intervention groups in equal proportions, considering sex and age strata. The intervention group was assigned to receive a daily regimen of four pomegranate peel capsules. Each capsule contained 375 mg of dried peel extract, resulting in a total daily dosage of 1500 mg. The capsules were taken alongside breakfast and dinner for a duration of 8 weeks. Conversely, the control group followed a similar regimen, taking four capsules that contained an inactive ingredient as placebo. Both groups received a 500-kcal deficit diet (53% of carbohydrates, 17% of protein and 30% of fat) along with mediterranean diet advices.