Bioflavanoids
Bioflavonoids are the natural pigments found in fruits and vegetables. There are over 800 bioflavonoids that have been identified. Many experts believe that bioflavonoids are beneficial to the body for the following reasons:
Inhibit clot formation: Research has indicated that bioflavonoids are able to naturally inhibit clots can may be effective at treating clotting disorders.
Protect against heart disease: Grape skins contain a bioflavonoid that is thought to be the ingredient in wine that makes wine effective at reducing the risk of heart attacks for people who moderately drink wine.
Act as an antioxidant: Many bioflavonoids have been found to help prevent free radical damage to the body. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can form when the body burns oxygen. Bioflavonoids are often used as food preservatives to prevent the oxidation of fats.
Enhance vitamin C: Bioflavonoids and vitamin C are processed by the body in the same way and are found together in the same foods. Research suggests that these components work together synergistically in the body.
Maintain capillaries: Bioflavonoids have been found to maintain the proper degree of permeability in capillaries. This is important because if blood capillaries are too fragile the are unable to pass oxygen, hormones, nutrients, and antibodies from the bloodstream to individual cells.
Helps prevent cancer: Research studies indicate that some bioflavonoids are able to stop or slow the growth of malignant cancer cells in the body. Bioflavonoids may even be effective at protecting the body against cancer-causing substances.
A natural antibiotic: Some bioflavonoids are effective at destroying certain bacteria, slowing down food spoilage, and protecting people from food-borne infections.
All of these examples probably make adding a few more fruits and vegetables into your daily diet seem like a good idea for your over all health and well-being. Adding a little color in your diet is one of the best ways to ensure you are getting all of the valuable bioflavonoids your body needs.
