Polyphenols are a group of substances found in plants with strong antioxidant properties. Foods that are high in polyphenols include berries, tea, beer, grapes, wine, olive oil, cocoa, cofee, walnuts, peanuts, borojo, pomegranates, yerba mate and other fruits and vegetables. The highest levels of polyphenols are usually found in the skins of the fruit, with seeds being a close second.
The largest and best studied group of polyphenols are the flavanoids. There are several thousand flavanoid compounds including the flavonols, flavones, catechins, flavanones, anthocyanidins and isoflavanoids. Better known polyphenols include:
- EGCG (from green tea) is known for its potential benefits for weight loss
- Quercetin is known for its potential anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory benefits
- Resveratrol has received a great deal of media attention for its anti-aging and cardiovascular health benefits.
- Isoflavanoids, genestein and daidzein, are also known as "phytoestrogens" and are best known for their potential benefits for menopausal and post-menopausal women.
These are just a few of the thousands of polyphenols found naturally in plants. Each individual polyphenol has a potential to play a role in health. For the greatest health benefits from polyphenols, consume a wide variety of fruits and vegetables to obtain the greatest amount and variety of polyphenols.
To learn more about antioxidants and polyphenols, read:
- Antioxidants 101: What is ORAC?
- Component of celery may reduce cancer risk
- Antioxidant foods lose potency over time
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