What Are The Benefits Of Polyphenols?

Hello, we’re glad to see you back on our blog and this time we have brought some health tips around!

So, have you heard of polyphenols? No!!!! You are missing out big time, but don’t you worry. We got that covered for you.

Polyphenols are a category of chemicals that naturally occur in plants. There are more than 500 unique polyphenols. Collectively, these chemicals are known as phytochemicals.

Polyphenols can be further categorized into the following groups:

  • flavonoids
  • phenolic acids
  • stilbene
  • lignans

Benefits of Polyphenols:

  • Many of the health benefits associated with polyphenols may be related to their role as antioxidants. Antioxidants are known for their ability to combat cell damage.
  • Polyphenols may also impact genes and gene expression. A person’s specific genes can also affect how their body responds to certain types of polyphenols. Polyphenols may even influence gut bacteria.
  • Type 2 diabetes – Some researchers have reported that polyphenols may lower the risk for type 2 diabetes. Polyphenols may boost insulin sensitivity, as well as slow down the rate the body digests and absorbs sugar.
  • Unprocessed cocoa is a rich source of flavonoids. One review found that cocoa consumption significantly decreased a marker of insulin resistance. It is worth noting that unprocessed cocoa is very different from the chocolate in candy bars or traditional desserts. Unprocessed cocoa comes straight from the cacao plant with no sugar added.
  • Inflammation – A study in animals looked at the effect of green tea polyphenols on measures of inflammation after exercise.
  • Heart disease – A review of studies looked at the impact of cocoa polyphenols on risk factors for heart disease. Scientists found that consuming cocoa for at least 2 weeks led to a significant decrease in blood pressure. They also found that cocoa significantly decreased LDL or “bad” cholesterol, and raised HDL or “good” cholesterol.
  • Obesity – Polyphenol intake may also play a role in body weight regulation. One study compared the intake of flavonoids, a class of polyphenols, with body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference. Researchers found that higher flavonoid intake was associated with lower BMI and waist circumference.

These results are significant because obesity is associated with a higher risk for many chronic diseases. Thank you for reading; we hope to see you again!

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