Polyphenols- Wealth Of Health Benefits

They’re not the most glamorous ingredients in the world of dietary supplements, but polyphenols offer a wealth of health benefits

- Vera Tweed

There are a lot of different ingredients in supplements, and not all of them are as familiar as the basic vitamins and minerals. So, when you see “polyphenols,” you might wonder, “Polly who?”

While the name might not be familiar, your diet is likely full of polyphenols, especially if you eat lots of fruits and vegetables, season your food with herbs and spices, and drink tea, coffee, and/ or red wine. Pronounced “polly FEEnols,” they’re nutrients that plants make to protect themselves from ultraviolet radiation and pathogens. And they can protect us too. Studies show that polyphenols are antioxidants that reduce the risk of diabetes, heart disease, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

Types of Polyphenols

Scientists are continually learning more about the various natural substances found in food. So far, it’s known that there are about 8,000 different polyphenols, and the greatest benefits come from a combination, rather than any single one. That fact alone is a great reason to eat a variety of plant foods. However, knowing a bit more about what different polyphenols can do just might inspire you to expand your plant menu and spice cupboard even more.