Polyphenols and Flavonoids in Product Formulation (Powering Products with Polyphenols)

Not only does understanding polyphenols pose a challenge to consumers, it can also be challenging to the industry. There are two basic classifications, flavonoids and non-flavonoids, but there are many types within each class, which can themselves be broken down again and again. Gallo noted the science linking different polyphenolic compounds to different health conditions is evolving. “Various studies have shown anti-oxidative, anti-inflammatory and anti-carcinogenic activities attributed to polyphenols,” she said. “New studies are finding connections with polyphenols and cardiovascular health, weight management and even athletic performance. Most of the studies to date are more preliminary and explore the health benefits of polyphenols in vitro or using animal models. Nonetheless, due to promising results and an increasing understanding of bioavailability, there is evidence that polyphenol supplementation could positively impact a variety of health parameters.”

Some of the different polyphenol types and their health benefits include:

• Anthocyanins: Responsible for the red, purple and blue pigments of many fruits and vegetables, more than 300 structurally distinct anthocyanins have been identified, according to information from the Linus Pauling Institute. Studies suggest anthocyanins have particular benefits to microcirculation, diabetes prevention and vision improvement.¹ In particular, the anthocyanins found in blueberries,² black currant³ and bilberry⁴ have shown efficacy in preventing oxidative damage in the eye and enhancing visual function. Indena has done research on its Mirtoselect®, a purified extract from bilberry (Vaccinium mirtillus L.).
• Catechins: Best known as the polyphenols found in tea, this class includes catechin, gallocatechin, epicatechin, epigallocatechin, epicatechin 3-gallate and epigallocatechin 3-gallate (EGCG). They have been studied for a wide range of health benefits including cancer prevention,⁵ insulin resistance,⁶ cardiovascular health,⁷ and weight management.⁸
• Ellagic acid: Found in many plant foods including raspberries, strawberries, cranberries, pomegranates and some nuts, ellagic acid is a non-flavonoid polyphenol. The American Cancer Society has noted ellagic acid acts as an antioxidant, and has some anti-cancer properties. Researchers suggest its effects may be due to antioxidant activity as well as induction of apoptosis.⁹
• Flavanones/Flavones: Primarily found in citrus fruit, the major dietary flavanones are hesperetin, naringenin and eriodictyol, while the flavones include luteolin and apigenin. These compounds exert antioxidant, anti-cancer and anti-inflammatory activities.¹⁰ In addition, the flavanones, and their aglycone derivatives, particularly address blood lipid levels and may help lower levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.¹¹
• Flavonols: The major dietary aglycone flavonols include quercetin, kaempferol, myricetin and isorhamnetin, found in fruits and vegetables such as onions, apples, kale and broccoli.
• Isoflavones: Primarily found in soy, isoflavones are considered a phytoestrogen (plant-based compound similar to the body’s hormone), and have been studied for their anti-cancer ability, particularly in relation to breast cancer.¹² They may also beneficially influence cardiovascular health.¹³ The major isoflavones include daidzein and genistein.

There are other classes of particular interest. For example, the proanthocyanidins are polymer chains of flavonoids that are found in grape seeds and skins, peanut skins and pine bark (notably as Pycnogenol®, from Horphag Research). Frank Schonlau, from Natural Health Science, the U.S. distributor of Pycnogenol, noted the company has invested heavily in research. “For Pycnogenol, our current research points to a potent anti-inflammatory activity, which translates to a broad variety of health issues,” he said. “Inflammation can essentially occur in every part of the body and represents more than pain and diminution of the quality of life; it is a destructive force to body tissues.”

Another hot research area has been the curcuminoids, polyphenols that exert a yellow color and are primarily found in the botanical turmeric. Lakshmi Prakash, Ph.D., Sabinsa Corp., said, “The healthy aging benefits of curcuminoids are well-known. Recent studies established the healthful role of curcuminoids in preventing Alzheimer’s disease and a metabolite of the curcuminoids in potentially increasing lifespan in animal models.”

Continue...

Pages: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 Next