Are You Getting Enough Flavonoids?

We hear a lot about flavonoids and how healthy they are for you, but what exactly are they and how do they work their wellness magic?* Check out this week’s article to learn more!

Flavonoids possess a wealth of benefits for your health. In general, most flavonoids support heart health and healthy blood pressure already within normal range.* Specific types of flavonoids offer targeted benefits ranging from everything from improving skin tone to soothing the gut.*

Bioflavonoids and flavonoids are essentially the same thing, a phytochemical found in plants that possesses antioxidant activity. You’ll often see citrus bioflavonoids listed in supplement ingredients. Citrus bioflavonoids from grapefruit, oranges and lemons include hesperidin rutin and naringen among many others. Citrus bioflavonoids may promote the absorption of vitamin C and enhance its antioxidant activity even more so than if you were to take vitamin C on its own. Research shows citrus bioflavonoids exert a positive effect on the structure of the blood vessels which can contribute to healthy blood pressure levels. Just like any part of the body, blood vessels can age, leading to stretching, twisting, leaky valves and other issues. Citrus bioflavonoids can help with not only larger blood vessel health but capillaries promoting healthy circulation throughout the body. We utilize these beneficial flavonoids in Super Vitamin C to enhance the antioxidant benefits of vitamin C along with another flavonoid, quercetin.*

Bioflavonoids such as quercetin are found in garlic, onions, and other fruits and vegetables. Quercetin has the distinction of being one of the most powerful flavonoids in terms of its ability to neutralize free radicals. It also has unique properties that lessen the body’s response to histamine. We pair quercetin with the pineapple enzyme bromelain to enhance absorption in our Quercetin Bromelain formula. You’ll also find this anti-inflammatory flavonoid in our Super Vitamin C and Immunity Plus supplements.

Anthocyanins are plant pigments that are responsible for the beautiful shades of purple, blue and red found in fruits and vegetables. Berries, grapes and cherries are abundant in anthocyanins. These plant pigments are associated with healthy blood pressure levels. They are also a useful tool in managing inflammation from external sources such as physical activity, sunlight and other stressors. Nature’s Lab Tart Cherry leverages the benefits of anthocyanins in capsule form. Tart cherry studies show that they promote efficient muscle recovery after intense exercise and can enhance joint mobility.* Elderberries with their deep purple, almost black color contain some of the highest amounts of anthocyanins of any berry. Their ability to neutralize damage from inflammation is one reason they promote immune cell longevity. You can find elderberry in Nature’s Lab Immunity Synergy where it is paired with other immune-supporting nutrients.*

Catechins are a type of flavonoid found in herbs, apples, sweet potatoes, red wine, dark chocolate and many other food sources. They are known for soothing inflammation within the digestive tract and quenching the activity of reactive oxygen species which can make molecules unstable. Green tea contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a type of catechin that may have use for metabolism and weight management.* Norepinephrine is a hormone that tells our body to use fat as energy. EGCG can prolong the activity of norepinephrine which may lead to superior weight management.* A cup of green tea or matcha typically provides 50-100 mg of EGCG. When you don’t have time to brew a cup, reach for Nature’s Lab Green Tea Extract which contains 500 mg of bioavailable green tea extract in one capsule.

There is no specified daily value for flavonoids, but there’s no doubt that they can benefit your wellness.* Flavonoids are a simple and delicious way to promote heart health, circulation, immune function and antioxidant health.* Choosing foods with richly-saturated hues is one way to ensure you are including these beneficial plant compounds into your diet. Herbs, vegetables, fruits and wine are just a few items you can put on your menu. Of course, Nature’s Lab has countless supplements that feature healthy flavonoids making it even more convenient for you to fit into your daily routine.