Bioflavonoids, or simply flavonoids, are chemical compounds that are ubiquitous in the plant kingdom. All plants capable of photosynthesis contain flavonoids, which are the most common polyphenols that we get from plant sources in our diet. Polyphenolic substances are famed for their in vitro activities against many different diseases and believed to possess properties that promote the overall health of the animals that consume them, including human beings.

Phytochemicals are any chemical compounds naturally occurring in plants, and thus bioflavonoids are phytochemicals with polyphenolic properties and molecular structures. While we may be able to get certain levels of bioflavonoids from all fruits and vegetables, berries and citrus fruits in general are known to be very good sources of these phytochemicals. In recent years, teas, especially green tea, have been identified to contain very high concentrations of flavonoids, leading to a surge in consumptions of tea and known sources of flavonoids as well as a well-publicized campaign for polyphenols.

Anti-inflammatory

Polyphenolic compounds have been reported to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties. Inflammation is a process of healing, and one of the defense mechanisms in use by the human body against harmful cellular debris and pathogenic microbes such as bacteria, protozoans, fungi, and even viruses. Cells and tissues contain signaling molecules collectively known as eicosanoids, which are responsible for a number of processes implicated in inflammatory immune responses, and bioflavonoids have an inhibitory effect on the synthesis of these molecules.

At the onset of an inflammatory response, signaling molecules present almost everywhere in the human body alert the immune system to take action. When tissues detect the presence of invasive pathogens, eicosanoids bring about chemical reactions that trigger the release of antibodies into the site of inflammation. It has been observed that certain classes of flavonoids, especially flavonols like quercitin, certain groups of eicosanoids that give rise to the redness, swelling, and pain characteristic of inflammation.

Anti-cancer

The advent of radical chemistry at the turn of the 20th century pointed to compounds called reactive oxygen species present in the human body, and of special note is their alleged role in the formation of abnormal cellular structures, resulting in the common belief that they are carcinogenic agents. Reactive oxygen species are by-products of chemical processes taking place anywhere in the body that involve the participation of oxygen. They bring on damaging effects at the cellular level, and, as the name suggests, are very reactive when not promptly disposed of.

What we refer to as free radicals are the best known reactive oxygen species. Cellular functions are challenged when the ability of the body to detoxify free radicals is significantly compromised, and it is now believed that the cellular damage free radicals cause give rise to cancerous cells. Polyphenolic substances have gained widespread popularity over the years largely owing to the discovery of their antioxidant properties when ingested. Today, bioflavonoids are among the most popular antioxidants, and have been in extensive use in recent researches in the ongoing battle against cancer.

You can find bioflavonoid complex supplements at your local or internet vitamin store. always choose name brands like Now Foods to ensure quality and purity of the product you buy for better health.

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Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: Bioflavonoid complex, Fight Cancer, Improve Health