Polyphenol
Quick Definition
A category of plant compounds with antioxidant properties found in fruits, vegetables, tea, wine, and chocolate.
In-Depth Explanation
Polyphenols are a large family of naturally occurring compounds found abundantly in plants. With over 8,000 identified varieties, they are classified into four main groups: flavonoids (the largest group), phenolic acids, polyphenolic amides, and other polyphenols.
Research suggests polyphenols may help protect against heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers, and neurodegenerative diseases through their antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and prebiotic effects. They also support gut microbiome diversity.
Rich dietary sources include berries, grapes (and red wine), green tea, dark chocolate, coffee, olives, herbs, and spices like cloves and star anise. Bioavailability varies significantly between different polyphenols, and the gut microbiome plays an important role in their metabolism and activation.