The effect of polyphenols on our bodies is one of science's newest discoveries. However, one thing is almost certain: these secondary plant substances support our health in a wide variety of ways. We'll explain what's behind these tiny super-talents in products like our VITA+ all-in-one .
Table of contents:
What are polyphenols?
Polyphenols are a class of secondary plant substances that occur naturally in various fruits and vegetables. They perform various functions, such as protecting plants from predators or attracting insects for pollination. Polyphenols also contribute to the typical flavor of each fruit and vegetable.
Polyphenols are found primarily in the outer layers of a plant, such as the peel or skin. One of their most important properties is their antioxidant effect, which not only protects the plant but also benefits us when we consume foods containing polyphenols.
The group of polyphenols includes, for example:
- Flavonoids
- Flavanone
- Resveratrol
- Oxacyclenes
- Pyrone
- Anthocyanins
How do polyphenols affect the body?
Polyphenols have a number of health-promoting effects on our bodies. Perhaps the most important of these are their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.
A good example of this are the so-called flavonoids , which belong to the group of polyphenols: According to the Federal Center for Nutrition, they act against bacteria, viruses and fungi, reduce the risk of blood clots, strengthen the immune system, regulate blood pressure, inhibit inflammation and help prevent cancer and cardiovascular diseases.
A study by the Max Rubner Institute showed that polyphenols have a positive effect on blood clotting and blood pressure, among other things - and can thus reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
However, scientists have not yet been able to determine exactly how polyphenols affect our bodies. Furthermore, all previous studies on secondary plant substances have been conducted with high concentrations of polyphenols under laboratory conditions. Because polyphenols undergo further changes in our bodies, these studies are not ideally transferable to humans.
Which foods contain polyphenols?
Polyphenols are found in many foods—although in the case of fruits and vegetables, they are usually found in the skin. This is another reason why it makes sense to eat apples, for example, with the skin on.
Depending on the fruit and vegetable, the specific variety is also crucial. Old varieties such as Goldrenette, Gravensteiner, or Kaiser Wilhelm contain more polyphenols than, for example, modern Pink Lady apples. Incidentally, these apple varieties are often easier to digest.
Other foods that contain comparatively high levels of polyphenols are:
- Carnations
- Dark chocolate (and cocoa powder)
- Green and black tea
- Green vegetables
- Berries
- Plums
- Cherries
- Nuts
- Artichokes
However, the decisive factor in polyphenol content is not only the variety, but also the degree of ripeness. Ripe fruits contain more secondary plant substances than less ripe ones. This also applies to fresh and processed products: An apple alone contains more polyphenols than apple juice.
Polyphenols are found in many foods. If you eat a healthy and varied diet, you'll usually be well supplied with these secondary plant substances.
If you'd like to further support the antioxidant effects of polyphenols, we recommend our VITA+ all-in-one . It contains everything your body needs for optimal function—including an extra dose of polyphenols.
