Polyphenols Benefits

Polyphenols are a group of chemicals with more than one phenol unit per molecule. Polyphenols are found naturally in plants. The most commonly found polyphenols in plants are, flavonoids, phenolic acid, catechins, anthocyanins, isoflavones, quercetin and resveratrol. Many scientific studies and researches have been conducted to evaluate the effects of these chemicals on human body. Many of the health benefits of vegetables and fruits are sometimes attributed to the presence of these compounds.

Food Sources of Polyphenols

Fruits and vegetables along with tea, especially green tea are some of their most important sources. Among the fruits, berries including, strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, cranberries, acai berries, raspberries, as well as apples, pomegranates, cherries, grapes, pears and plums are the other rich sources. Among the vegetables, cabbage, broccoli, onion, parsley and celery are some of the rich sources of different types of polyphenols. In addition to these, you can find a significant amount of these chemicals in red wine, coffee, tea, chocolate, olive oil, legumes and nuts such as, walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts, pistachios, pecans and peanuts.

Polyphenols Advantages

Some of the important polyphenols such as, flavones, flavonoids, resveratrol, and isoflavones are known to possess antioxidant properties. They are also believed to have anti-inflammatory and immune boosting properties, and all these can prove immensely helpful for improving health and general wellbeing.

• Most of the polyphenols are antioxidants, and being antioxidants they can neutralize the highly reactive free radicals and minimize their damaging effect on the body cells and tissues.
• Free radicals are often blamed for causing cellular damage, which is associated with aging. So being powerful antioxidants, they can slow down the process of aging.
• They can also invigorate the immune system. A strong immune system is a must for maintaining good health, and keeping infections and diseases at bay.
• They can improve circulation of blood and boost heart health, which can lower the risk for heart and cardiovascular diseases.
• Certain polyphenols like, resveratrol have been found to exhibit anti-tumor activities. Such polyphenols may be able to inhibit the growth of cancerous tumors in the body.
• Some polyphenols found in raspberries have been found to slow down bone loss. Bone loss is the major factor that leads to osteoporosis.
• The polyphenol, catechin found in green tea may help to lose weight. The compound may stimulate the body to burn more fat and calories.
• The isoflavone, another class of polyphenols, found largely in soy and soy products can help women to cope with menopause symptoms, especially hot flashes and bone loss.

They can have many other health benefits, as the actual health promoting actions of polyphenols are still being studied. The best way to derive the benefits of polyphenols is to include sufficient amounts of the foods that contain these chemical compounds. However, their supplements are also available. But, they should be taken only under the guidance of a health care provider, as their excess intake may prove harmful. Moreover, it is always better to follow a healthy diet that includes a lot of fresh fruits and vegetables, which can provide all the necessary nutrients including, the plant polyphenols.