What Are Flavonoids And Why Should They Matter To You?

By Kathleen Hall


There are so many books, articles, and spokespeople recommending so many different kinds of diets and menu plans, most people don't know what to believe about food. It is often hard to tell whether or not you should eat meat at all, and if you do, what kind and how often. It is pretty much accepted that you need plenty of water to stay hydrated. The majority of individuals understand processed food and fast food aren't good for them, and many realize the importance of daily portions of fruits and vegetables. Nutritionists generally say plant foods high in flavonoids should be your first choice, but they don't always tell you why.

You may have never heard the word before, or it may sound familiar but you don't really know what it is or how it pertains to your life. Put in simple English, these are a family of nutrients with thousands of members. They are found everywhere, but are most importantly in plant foods such as fruits and vegetables. Green tea is a great source of the nutrients as well.

There all kinds of fruits and vegetables to choose from. If you are lucky enough to be able to purchase fresh and organic produce, so much the better. When shoppers select these items today, many of them look for color when it comes to making smart choices. The more colorful the food is, the better it is for you. You may not realize it when you make your purchases, but that beautiful color is the direct of result of a high nutritional content.

These nutrients have a number of health benefits associated with them. For one thing they are high in antioxidants. It is a little complicated to explain, but when oxidants get into our body they can change molecules and create free radicals. Too many free radicals can cause a lot of problems unless they are kept in check.

Keeping the blood vessels in the heart free of clogs is very important. These nutrients help with that as well. They seem to promote the good cholesterol we need. Certain herbs contain the nutrients such as rosemary, oregano, and garlic. Adding these herbs to a diet that includes meat can be very beneficial.

These nutrients also have strong anti inflammatory capabilities. You know how an inflamed cut or rash can look when it's on the outside of your body. It doesn't look any healthier when it occurs inside. Eating plenty of plant foods helps reduce internal inflammation.

Scientists seem to be divided on how important these nutrients are in lowering the risk of cancer. Some believe that its anti inflammatory properties and anti oxidizing abilities can help cells from becoming cancerous. They know that these nutrients are excellent for detoxification, and some think this might lower the risk of cancer. More studies have to be done before there is definitive agreement.

Eating plenty of vegetables and fruit every day may not be as exotic a diet regimen as some others, but it is a tried and true method of optimizing health. Becoming informed about the foods you eat and why that they are good for you is very important.




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