Polyphenols are natural compounds found in many plants and have powerful antioxidant properties. They protect plants from damage by UV radiation and pathogens, but also offer some impressive benefits for human health.
One of the most well-known polyphenols is Resveratrol, which is mainly found in grapes, berries, and peanuts. Resveratrol is a specific type of polyphenol that has built a reputation for its anti-aging properties, but also has numerous health-promoting properties. Thanks to its ability to increase the activity of Sirtuins and reduce inflammation, Resveratrol is often seen as an important player in the quest for a longer, healthier life.
What are Polyphenols
Polyphenols form an extensive group of more than 500 different chemical substances that naturally occur in plants. Polyphenols is a collective term for this group, which is also known as bioactive substances.
Polyphenols help protect plants against harmful environmental factors. For instance, polyphenols protect the plant from harmful UV radiation as they function as natural sunscreens. Additionally, polyphenols protect plants from pests and insects due to their bitter and chemical properties and support the plants in coping with environmental stress.
Polyphenols are abundant in foods such as fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, wine, and even chocolate. As a result, you consume polyphenols when you eat any of these products, and you may experience the potential physical and mental benefits.
Benefits of Polyphenols
Bioactive substances have a specific effect on the human body, providing a beneficial impact on human health. These substances have powerful antioxidant properties and help limit cell aging. Additionally, polyphenols are powerful antioxidants that can help neutralize free radicals, thereby reducing cell damage and inflammation.
A polyphenol supplement can also be used in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, chronic inflammations, and neurodegenerative diseases. Additionally, they promote gut health by stimulating the growth of beneficial bacteria in the intestines. Some studies suggest that polyphenols may aid in weight loss by increasing metabolism and improving fat burning, but more research would need to be conducted to confirm these findings.
Polyphenols in food
Polyphenols in food are often found in everyday foods. Foods that are rich in polyphenols include berries, grapes, nuts, olive oil, tea, and coffee. These everyday foods full of polyphenols each have their own health benefits:
- Grapes: Grapes contain Resveratrol, this is a polyphenol known for its anti-aging and cardiovascular benefits.
- Green tea: Green tea is rich in catechins, a type of polyphenol that helps combat oxidative stress and may contribute to weight management and better heart health.
- Other tea and coffee: Tea and coffee are rich in different types of polyphenols, which have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties.
- Cocoa: Cacao contains flavonoids, which are polyphenols that contribute to improved blood flow, lowering blood pressure, and protecting the skin against UV damage.
- Berries : Berries contain anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system.
- Olive oil: Olive oil is rich in hydroxytyrosol, which is a polyphenol that helps reduce inflammation and promote a healthy heart.
- Grades: Nuts contain ellagic acid, which is a polyphenol that helps combat chronic inflammation and cell protection.
The relationship between Polyphenols and Resveratrol
Resveratrol is a specific type of polyphenol that is mainly found in the skins of grapes, berries, peanuts, the Japanese Knotweed plant, and in red wine. This natural substance is known for its strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, making it play an important role in protecting cells from damage and counteracting inflammation. These properties make Resveratrol a frequently praised remedy for promoting good health and slowing down the aging process.
