Polyphenols: what is it, where it is contained, supplements

Polyphenols are chemical compounds where there is more than one phenolic group per molecule. Most often they are found in plants. Accelerate the synthesis of sodium metamizole, chlorpromazine, which affect blood clotting.

The main property of polyphenols is their antioxidant effect - they reduce the activity of free radicals and help eliminate toxins from the body.

Action on the body

1. They have an antioxidant effect. As a result of improper nutrition, unfavorable environmental conditions, stress, free radicals accumulate in the body, which destroy healthy cells. Polyphenols neutralize their action and remove them from the body, preventing the development of many diseases.
2. Strengthens the cardiovascular system. Taking foods containing polyphenols helps to reduce the risk of diseases associated with impaired heart function and deterioration of blood vessels.
3. They have anti-inflammatory effects. Under the influence of infections, oxidative stress occurs in the body, which leads to the development of inflammation. This is a normal response from the immune system, but when it is weakened, inflammation can become chronic and lead to serious ailments. Polyphenols help reduce inflammation and prevent it from becoming chronic.
4. Prevents the appearance of blood clots. Polyphenols, found in the skins of red berries or natural dry red wine, block the aggregation of blood clots.
5. Reduces the risk of tumors. Anthocyanins, flavanols, flavanones and phenolic acids suppress the activity of cancer cells, preventing them from growing and developing.
6. Regulate plasma sugar content. Polyphenols are involved in the secretion of insulin, which helps avoid spikes in blood sugar and reduces the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Content in food

Polyphenols enter the body along with plant foods.

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Their content in food is shown in the table below, but it should be understood that these figures are rather arbitrary, since the same vegetables and fruits, depending on the conditions of their cultivation and variety, may contain different amounts of polyphenols.

Polyphenol Supplements

Polyphenol can be purchased in pharmacies as part of complex antioxidant supplements. A wide range of vitamins can be found on popular online retailers that offer various types of supplements.

Some of the top-selling polyphenol supplements include:

• Jarrow Formulas, Bilberry + Grapeskin Polyphenols.

• Life Extension, Apple Wise, Polyphenol Extract.

• Reserveage Nutrition, Grape Seed Extract.

• Planetary Herbals, Full Spectrum, Pine Bark Extract.

The cost of supplements varies around 2000 rubles.

Side effects of polyphenol supplements

It is recommended to obtain the required amount of polyphenol from the vegetables and fruits used in food. Polyphenol supplementation may be prescribed under certain conditions. Their uncontrolled intake can lead to:

• decreased absorption of iron,
• irritation of the intestinal mucosa,
• decrease in the production of thyroid hormones.

Watch the video: Polyphenols and how they work (June 2025).