Polyphenols and the Health Benefits You Need to Know About
I know what you may be thinking… Poly what? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. While some of you may have heard of polyphenols (perhaps in the news), most people have absolutely no clue what they are. And that’s ok.
In this article, we will look at what polyphenols are, their benefits, the foods that are naturally rich in them, and if you should consider utilizing a polyphenol supplement if you aren’t getting enough through your daily nutrition plan.
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Without further ado, let’s talk about the hidden superfood in the kitchen: Polyphenols!
What are Polyphenols?
Polyphenols are the naturally occurring compounds found in plants. They are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties and provide various potential health benefits. From reducing the risk of heart diseases to improving brain functioning, polyphenols help improve overall health.
The Benefits of Polyphenols
Below are some of the benefits generally associated with polyphenols.
1. Reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease
Undoubtedly, fruits and vegetables are well-known to support heart health. The antioxidant properties present in these spectific plant compounds help reduce the risk of heart disease. As per studies, pomegranate juice contains high amounts of polyphenols that help to reduce oxidative stress and can protect the body from free radical damage.
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As per the Journal of Nutrition, cocoa contains flavonoids that can help in reducing systolic blood pressure and LDL levels. Also, it can increase the high-density lipoprotein. This, in turn, has the ability to improve blood flow through arteries.
2. Reduce the risk of Type-2 diabetes
Because of junk food and an unhealthy diet, the cases of Type-2 diabetes have skyrocketed in the past few years.
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These helpful plant compounds can regulate blood sugar levels, which may reduce the risk of Type-2 diabetes. According to research, polyphenols help prevent the breakdown of starch into sugar which can instantly raise blood sugar levels.
3. Reduce the risk of cancer
Polyphenols also contain anti-cancer properties that can help treat various types of cancer. It protects the DNA from oxidative stress and helps prevent cells from getting damaged or destroyed. Unfortunately, free radicals are known to be responsible for the development of various types of cancer. As per studies, polyphenols prevent cancer cells from mutating and potentially causing health issues.
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Foods That Are Rich in Polyphenols
Here are some food items that you can include in your nutrition plan to help get a daily dose of polyphenols:
1. Cloves
Cloves are the richest in polyphenols. In total, there is 15,188mg of polyphenols per 100 grams of cloves. Apart from cloves, there are other seasonings like peppermint and star anise, which are rich in polyphenols.
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