What Are Flavonoids And Why Should They Matter To You?

By Kathleen Hall


Everywhere you look these days there are articles and television programs devoted to the newest diet guaranteed to drop pounds from your body and inches from your waist without the inconvenience of exercise or moderation. As soon as one of these miracle plans disappears two others take their place. It's no wonder people are so confused about what the right thing is to eat and how important calories are and how much water you need to drink every day. One thing most nutritionists are pretty much in agreement on however is the importance of flavonoids in our daily diet.

Sometimes when people hear a word associated with food that has a scientific ring to it, their eyes glaze over. There are so many buzzwords surrounding what we eat, it is confusing and discouraging to sort them out. This term simply means a nutrient family with hundreds of close relatives. You can find them in the fruits and vegetables you eat, and green tea is loaded with them.

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.

Establishing a healthy eating pattern and sticking to it is a wonderful example to set for your children. Everyone enjoys an occasional sinful treat, but healthy and balanced meals should be the norm.




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