What You Should Know About Flavonoids

By Stepy Kamei

You know how important it is to get plenty of nutrients in your diet. Some nutrients are pretty commonly well-known, such as protein, calcium, and Vitamin B, to name just a few. However, there are loads more nutrients out there that your body needs to thrive, yet many people don't know much about. Flavonoids are just one example of a nutrient your body needs, yet you may not be getting enough of. So what exactly are flavonoids? How do they benefit your health, and where you can find them in your diet? Keep on reading to gain more knowledge on this surprisingly helpful and beneficial nutrient.

The Facts on Flavonoids

Simply put, flavonoids are nutrients found in plant products. Flavonoids are mostly known throughout the nutritional world for their potent antioxidant capabilities. Antioxidants work to protect the skin and improve circulation of oxygen throughout the body. Notably, antioxidants prevent the harmful UVA and UVB rays of the sun from damaging your skin's inner and outer layers. Ultimately, this can serve to decrease your risk of developing skin cancer.

Flavonoids also provide useful anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is the body's natural response to illness and injury; it serves to act as a defense barrier against potential invasive elements. However, inflammation can often be formed in excessive amounts, which tends to do more harm than good to the body. Excessive inflammation can cause stiffness in the joints, and increase aches and pains in affected areas. However, flavonoids can combat inflammation in a natural and safe manner. Combine these results with the studies that show people who eat flavonoid-rich foods tend to have a lower risk of developing heart disease, and it's easy to see why these compounds are so effective at improving your overall health and wellness.

Where to Get Flavonoids

So now that you know just how beneficial flavonoids can be, the question remains: Where can you find flavonoids?

As previously mentioned, flavonoids are a plant-based nutrient. Therefore, plant-based foods are the kinds of flavonoid-rich foods you'll want to seek out. Green tea in particular is well-known for its high amounts of flavonoids, which seep out of the tea leaf when steeped in hot water. Starting your morning by drinking a cup of green tea is a great way to get flavonoids, in addition to an extra boost of antioxidants.

Apples are another food rich in flavonoids, so be sure to snack on an apple often. Generally speaking, minimally-processed, fresh fruits and veggies can give you plenty of flavonoids.

To learn more about your health, wellness and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Dawsonville, Ga.