Polyphenols are antioxidants found in plants, including flavonoids, tannins, and lignins. They scavenge free radicals and may prevent premature aging and cancer. Tannins are responsible for browning and can have antibiotic benefits. While there are still questions about their benefits, most experts recommend consuming polyphenol-rich foods and drinks.
Polyphenols are antioxidants in plants that many believe have a significant amount of health benefits. Among the best known are the flavonoids, which are a grouping of several thousand individual compounds. These compounds are found together in many different foods, all contributing in unique ways to an individual’s overall health. They are most commonly introduced into the body through the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
In addition to flavonoids, other classes of polyphenols include tannins (both condensed tannins and hydrolysable tannins) and lignins. Each of these can be found from many different sources. For example, tannins are prevalent in wines, teas and fruits. Almost all plants will carry at least some of these polyphenols.
Polyphenols work by scavenging free radicals in the body, which are known to cause a variety of health problems. They are thought to help prevent premature aging and prevent cancer, among other things. Some, such as tannins, may also have antibiotic benefits.
The effect of the tannins can be seen in different applications. It is the substance responsible for the browning, or tanning, of the skin. In fact, this is how the group of chemicals got its name. Tannic acid can be seen in some lakes and rivers, especially those in tropical and subtropical areas populated by cypress trees. However, it should be noted that while tannic acid can, in some cases, be harmful to the body, it is not the same as the tannins found in other types of polyphenols.
While there are a number of health benefits to be associated with polyphenols, there are still many questions associated with them. In some cases, depending on the compound, they may not be helpful at all and, in fact, be quite harmful. This is especially true for some types of tannins. Without further study, it is impossible to state for certain what the benefits of these compounds are with a high degree of certainty.
However, in much of the medical community, the debate centers on the extent to which polyphenols benefit a person, not whether they do. Nearly all of the health benefits of fruits, vegetables, even beverages like tea and wine, are attributed to antioxidants. Most experts recommend consuming such foods and drinks, claiming their benefits.
Protect your devices with Threat Protection by NordVPN
