Besides giving color to fruits, vegetables and herbs, flavonoids also act as naturally powerful anti-aging nutrients

Flavonoids are a group of compounds that give fruit, vegetables and herbs their color. These naturally occurring nutrients are particularly good at preventing cell damage caused by free radicals which also gives them their anti-aging properties.

There are over 4,000 different flavonoid compounds. Most experts agree that flavonoids have healing properties, but only a few have been studied. The effects of quercetin, grape seed extract, gingko biloba, soy isoflavones, vitamin C and green tea are widely studied and understood.

Benefits of Flavonoids

Flavonoids are most popularly used for their antioxidant properties. This property helps lower the risk of cancer, and protect against age related damage and degenerative diseases such as macular degeneration. Quercetin and PCO’s, which are found in grape seed extract, are known to prevent blood clots and improve overall heart health.

Flavonoids, specifically quercetin, also work as an anti-inflammatory. This helps those who suffer from hay fever by countering the body’s reaction to pollen. It also helps those who suffer from allergies and asthma by reducing inflammation in air passageways. The anti-inflammatory properties of flavonoids also help treat joint and muscle inflammation caused by rheumatoid arthritis, fibromyalgia and gout. In fact quercetin is commonly prescribed for arthritis pain relief. Flavonoids also help boost the immune system and can help the body fight off viral infections and reduce recovery time.

Most experts suggest that any flavonoid be taken along with vitamin C since it maximizes the effects of both. Flavonoids are generally considered very safe and few side effects are associated with taking these supplements. However, recent information shows that taking flavonoid supplements during chemotherapy treatment may reduce its effects. Stop taking the supplement during treatment, but supplementation can be continued again when treatment is stopped. The flavonoid naringen, which is usually found in citrus flavonoid supplements, should not be taken by those who are taking a immunosuppressant and/or calcium channel blockers.

Learn more about health supplements and the benefits they may have on your health.