Polyphenols are a rising star in the health supplement world, and they confer a range of potential health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective effects, improved cardiovascular health, and even anti-aging effects. We’ll discuss the benefits of polyphenol supplements and recommend one of the best wellness brands on the market.
Polyphenols are a category of compounds that occur naturally in a variety of edible plants, including fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Over 8,000 distinct polyphenols have been identified, and they are categorized into four classes: flavonoids, phenolic acids, stilbenes, and lignans. While over-the-counter polyphenol supplements are a relatively new type of product, years of peer-reviewed medical research studies reveal that polyphenols offer a wide range of potential health benefits. Read on for more information about how polyphenol supplements can help to address your medical concerns and improve your overall health and wellness.
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Anti-inflammatory benefits of polyphenol supplements
Why do people get sore after exercising? A major culprit is an inflammatory response called oxidative stress, caused by an imbalance of reactive oxygen species (ROS). In simple terms, when there is an abundance of free radicals and a shortage of antioxidants in the body, cell and tissue damage can occur, which in turn causes pain and fatigue. While athletes are particularly prone to oxidative stress, other factors including genetics, diet, smoking, alcohol consumption, environmental pollution, and aging can also trigger this imbalance.
Polyphenol supplements have the potential to combat oxidative stress by neutralizing excessive ROS and preventing chronic inflammation. A great deal of research has been done on the use of polyphenols as natural dietary antioxidants. According to a 2022 report by the Gdansk University of Physical Education and Sport, recent studies indicate that oral polyphenol supplementation strengthens the body’s antioxidant defense system and protects against oxidative stress without the risks associated with common non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications.
Neuroprotective and cardiovascular benefits of polyphenol supplements
In addition to relief from pain and swelling, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of polyphenol supplements have the potential to provide significant neuroprotective and cardiovascular benefits.
The compounds in polyphenol supplements may protect against neuroinflammation and preserve and promote memory, learning, and cognitive function. Recent research also indicates that long-term polyphenol supplementation could serve as protection against neurodegenerative disorders that lead to dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Likewise, polyphenol supplements show great promise in promoting heart health. Their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties may improve the function of the endothelium (the inner lining of the heart and blood vessels) and increase “good cholesterol” (HDL).
Anti-cancer benefits of polyphenol supplements
There is an abundance of epidemiological evidence that suggests that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables can lower the risk of certain cancers. The likely reason for this, according to researchers, is the natural polyphenol content in certain plant-based foods.
Research shows that polyphenols have abundant anti-carcinogenic properties. They can help to inhibit cancer cell proliferation and protect against tumor growth and metastasis (spread of primary cancer to other organs). In fact, studies have cited polyphenols as potential candidates in new cancer treatment drug protocols. Supplements should never replace prescribed medical cancer treatments, but they can be beneficial when used in combination with prescribed treatments.
Weight control benefits of polyphenol supplements
Resveratrol, most commonly found in red wine, grapes, and nuts, is a stilbene polyphenol that has been widely studied for its potential health benefits, including obesity prevention. First isolated by researchers in 1940, resveratrol is considered the possible solution to “The French Paradox”: France’s lower incidence of heart disease deaths and obesity despite a cultural diet that is high in cholesterol and saturated fats.
Studies show that resveratrol can help to prevent obesity through a variety of mechanisms, including increased glucose uptake, suppression of liver fat accumulation, and inhibition of fatty acid synthesis – all of which may support the prevention of diabetes and obesity.
Anti-aging benefits of polyphenol supplements
The wisdom in the old saying “an apple a day keeps the doctor away” may have something to do with the benefits of polyphenols. Apples are rich in polyphenols, with the skins containing high concentrations of quercetin glycosides, and the flesh phenolic acids. According to numerous animal studies, quercetin and other isolated polyphenols may have protective functions against aging. Additionally, quercetin can have a positive long-term effect on cognition and the brain, which naturally degenerates with age.
In addition to promoting longevity and cognitive function, polyphenol supplements can help to maintain a youthful physical appearance. In addition to their harmful effects on internal organs, inflammation and oxidative stress negatively impact the skin, causing carcinomas, melanomas, and even fine lines and wrinkles. By regulating inflammation and reducing oxidative stress, polyphenol supplements may “slow down or prevent the aging-related deterioration of the appearance and function of the skin,” putting the brakes on the body’s internal and external aging process.
Our polyphenol supplement pick:
myPEAK Wellness
Of the numerous polyphenol supplements on the market, myPEAK Wellness stands out for its inclusion of multiple polyphenol sources. Furthermore, it incorporates additional ingredients that promote bioavailability and is made using clean and sustainable production methods. Formulated by physicians, myPEAK Wellness contains a proprietary blend of 27 ingredients and more than 70 trace minerals including quercitin and resveratrol-rich apple polyphenol extract. Additionally, the Wellness formula contains Bioperene®, a patented black pepper extract that increases bioavailability. myPEAK Supplements explains that Bioperene® “enhances the absorption vitamins A, B complex, C, D, E, K, amino acids, antioxidants, [and] herbal extracts [and] has been found to enhance the bioavailability of resveratrol 229%.” myPEAK Wellness is vegan, gluten-free, and non-GMO.
All myPEAK supplements are made in a state-of-the-art FDA-registered facility in the USA and lab-tested for purity and potency. Co-founders Bhargav Patel and Urja Shah strive to make products that will truly benefit consumers. “Based on a rich scientific knowledge of human physiology, genetics, nutrition, and cellular biology, and an in-depth understanding of our chosen ingredients, we blend and dose our ingredients so you get the benefits without the side effects — efficiency at its peak.”
A final word on polyphenol supplements
Whether you are young and healthy or older and facing health issues, polyphenol supplements offer many potential benefits ranging from cancer prevention to skin wellness to increased energy and improved cognition. While polyphenols can be naturally consumed through your diet, a concentrated supplement dose that includes added ingredients to support bioavailability will ensure that you’re getting the most out of these natural, plant-based compounds.
Further Reading:
Colorado State University: What are Polyphenols?
Journal of Food Biochemistry: Health Benefits of Polyphenols: A Concise Review
The University of Auckland: Polyphenols and Performance: A Systematic Review
Important Note: The information contained in this article is for general informational purposes only, and should not be construed as health or medical advice, nor is it intended to diagnose, prevent, treat, or cure any disease or health condition. Before embarking on any diet, fitness regimen, or program of nutritional supplementation, it is advisable to consult your healthcare professional in order to determine its safety and probable efficacy in terms of your individual state of health.
Regarding Nutritional Supplements Or Other Non-Prescription Health Products: If any nutritional supplements or other non-prescription health products are mentioned in the foregoing article, any claims or statements made about them have not been evaluated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and such nutritional supplements or other health products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
