Saturday, October 29, 2016

What Are Flavonoids And Why Should You Care?

By Kathleen Hall


There are so many books, articles, and spokespeople recommending so many different kinds of diets and menu plans, most people don't know what to believe about food. It is often hard to tell whether or not you should eat meat at all, and if you do, what kind and how often. It is pretty much accepted that you need plenty of water to stay hydrated. The majority of individuals understand processed food and fast food aren't good for them, and many realize the importance of daily portions of fruits and vegetables. Nutritionists generally say plant foods high in flavonoids should be your first choice, but they don't always tell you why.

They may not have known the word, but they were on the right track. Today we know a lot more about nutrition and how and why certain foods are good us. In many ways, we have come full circle back to what seemed obvious to previous generations. Plant foods are good for you because they are chock full of nutrients. Liquids such as green tea are loaded with them too. Animal products however, are not a very effective source of them.

Most of us know we should eat plenty of fruits and vegetables every day if we want to maintain a healthy lifestyle. We also know that for the last several years nutritionists have emphasized the importance of concentrating on richly colored plants. They will tell you the brighter the color of the fruit or vegetable, the better it is for you. That color comes from the nutrient found in them.

Every other day we seem to hear more about the beneficial effects of these powerful nutrients. Antioxidants is a term that gets a lot of attention, and these colorful plants and vegetables are full of them. When we have too many oxidants in our bodies, the molecular structure of cells can change and set off free radicals. These free radical busters help minimize that.

There are studies that find they encourage good cholesterol and help strengthen the heart's blood vessel walls There are other studies that suggest adding a mixture of nutrient rich herbs such as rosemary, garlic, and oregano, to meat can be 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.

There are differing opinions when it comes to how much influence these nutrients have on cancer cells. Some believe their natural anti inflammatory properties and antioxidant production may prevent cells from becoming cancerous. Scientists are still researching and discussing these possibilities.

Most people pretty much know what they should do when it comes to living a healthy lifestyle, but many of us don't follow sensible guidelines. Adding some colorful fruits and vegetables and introducing them early to your children is an easy first step.




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