Flavonoids are a compound found in plants to protect themselves from various stressors. They serve as important parts of plants’ biochemical makeup and are often the source of color for many of the bright fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids not only benefit plants, when consumed they can also benefit our health.
There are 6 Types of Flavonoids² found in assortments of fruits and vegetables! Most plants contain some level of flavonoids, however, they are the most concentrated in fruits and vegetables that are colorful:
Anthocyanidins -red, blue, and purple berries; red and purple grapes; red wine
Flavan-3-ols - teas (white, green, and oolong), cocoa products, grapes, berries, apples
Flavonols -onions, scallions, kale, broccoli, apples, berries, teas
Flavones - parsley, thyme, celery, hot peppers
Flavanones -citrus fruit and juices, oranges, grapefruits, lemons
Isoflavones - soybeans, soy foods, legumes
These flavonoids are classified as polyphenols⁵. Studies show that consuming polyphenols regularly has many health benefits such as protecting against cancer and heart disease, supporting healthy digestion, and even boosting brainpower! In fact, studies¹ showed that people who consumed more flavonoids in their diets reported a lower risk of cognitive decline in terms of memory function.
Flavonoids are recognized for their high levels of antioxidant activity and their contribution to healthy bodily function.Their antioxidants allow them to find and fight off free radicals³. What exactly are free radicals? These are unpaired electrons (molecules that have split) that will bond to other molecules very quickly, creating oxidative stress in the body. This stress breaks down the body’s cells over time and can speed up the effects of aging⁶ and even cause cancer growth. The antioxidants in flavonoids lend a molecule to the unpaired electron of a free radical, reducing its effect on the surrounding cells and intervening in its attempt to latch on to other healthy molecules. Antioxidants are so important to a healthy lifestyle, and provided by flavonoids, the compound not only fights free radicals, but is also anti-inflammatory⁴, can support the body in fighting against viral infections, cancer growth, and even help regulate allergen stimulation.
Because we recognize their immense benefits, flavonoids are no stranger to our juicing process. Our juices boast a variety of colorful flavonoids, including fresh, organic ingredients in every shade of the rainbow! Grab an Aronia Berry Energy Elixir to get anthocyanidins, or maybe a Mean Greens for a daily dose of flavonols! However you get your flavonoids, your body will thank you for the boost!
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