While it doesn’t necessarily remove the plaque already built up in your arteries, the antioxidants and nutrients can help to slow down the process and prevent further buildup. A new study published in the journal Atherosclerosis confirms that pomegranate extract may prevent and/or reverse the primary pathology associated with cardiac mortality: the progressive thickening of the coronary arteries caused by the accumulation of fatty materials known as atherosclerosis. This citrus fruit might be exactly what you need to prevent future heart issues.