Polyphenolsare plant compounds that are largely beneficial to your health.
Polyphenols act as antioxidants in the body.
This means they help protect the body and neutralizefree radicalsthat cause damage to cells.
Verywell / Joules Garcia
They make up over half of the currently known polyphenols.
The six different types of flavonoids are:
Flavonoids account for 60% of dietary polyphenols.
Avenanthramides are found in oats and are believed to help with LDL (low-density lipoprotein or bad)cholesterol.
Antioxidants help protect cells from damage because of free radicals.
Here are some of the potential health benefits of polyphenols.
Lower Blood Sugar Levels
Polyphenols may help keep blood sugar levels within a healthy range.
One study suggested that regularly consuming tea was associated with a lower risk of developingtype 2 diabetes.
When you become insulin resistant, your bodys cells become less responsive to the hormone insulin.
As a result, glucose stays in the bloodstream longer.
The researchers found that the polyphenols in strawberries and cranberries effectively increased insulin sensitivity in people with insulin resistance.
One study looked at the effect of polyphenol lignans on inflammatory markers in the body.
However, it is worth noting that not all studies have shown these benefits.
For example, resveratrol has not always been shown to have heart-health benefits.
However, more study is needed.
For example, studies have suggested that blueberries may promote the growth of the good bacteriumbifidobacteria.
The microbiome is the balance of microbes normally present in the digestive tract.
Researchers are just starting to understand thegut microbiomesrole in overall health.
So, maintaining a healthy balance of good bacteria is thought to support your overall health.
Polyphenol-Rich Foods
Polyphenols are found in a variety of plant-based foods.
However, if youre considering trying a polyphenol supplement, understand that there could be potential side effects.
More research is needed to understand the safety and effectiveness of polyphenol supplements.
Be sure to talk with your healthcare provider before taking any new supplements.
Lectinis another component of plant-based foods.
Some food sources that are high in these proteins are raw legumes and whole grains.
Examples of polyphenols include flavonoids, phenolic acid, polyphenolic amides, resveratrol, curcumin, and lignans.
double-check to talk to your provider before trying one.
Frequently Asked Questions
With current research, its not clear what dose of polyphenols to consume daily.
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