Flavonoids are natural compounds that are found in many fruits and vegetables. Consuming food sources of flavonoids can reduce the risk of various diseases, ranging from infectious to chronic diseases such as diabetes mellitus and cancer.

Fruits and vegetables are good food sources for the body because they contain Quercetin supplements, vitamins and minerals. In addition, fruits and vegetables also contain natural substances called flavonoids which have benefits as antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, antivirals and anticancer.

5 Benefits of Flavonoids for Health

Benefits of Flavonoids

The following are some of the benefits of flavonoids:

1. Reducing the risk of developing diabetes

Eating vegetables and fruits rich in flavonoids can help lower blood sugar levels and reduce the risk of developing diabetes. In addition, consuming a combination of foods that contain flavonoids and other natural plant compounds can increase the antidiabetic effect.

2. Prevent cancer

According to research, the antioxidant activity of flavonoids can protect the body from several types of cancer, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, and colorectal cancer. This is because flavonoids can regulate cell metabolism which can fight free radicals.

3. Reducing the risk of developing cardiovascular disease

The antioxidant properties of flavonoids can also reduce oxidation of LDL, help improve total cholesterol levels, and help dilate blood vessels. This will reduce the possibility of various conditions which are risk factors for heart and blood vessel disease.

4. Protects the brain from cognitive diseases

Flavonoids are thought to protect brain cells because they have anti-inflammatory properties and are able to fight free radicals. In addition, this compound can also increase blood flow to the brain.

Flavanoids are also known to prevent the buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain which are commonly found in people with Alzheimer’s disease.

According to studies, consuming foods high in flavonoids for a long time is beneficial for reducing the risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease or dementia in the elderly.

5. Inhibiting viral infections

Flavonoids can also be used as effective antivirals or to inhibit the growth of viruses. Several studies have shown that certain types of flavonoids can prevent the ability of viruses, such as H1N1, SARS, RSV, and HIV, to reproduce themselves.

Although flavonoids have various benefits for the health of the body, further research is still needed to ensure their various effectiveness.

Foods Containing Flavonoids

To get the various benefits of flavonoids, you can eat a variety of foods that contain the following flavonoids:

• Apple
• Soursop
• Starfruit
• Soybeans
• Red wine or red wine
• Berries
• Orange
• Tea
• Dark chocolate
• kale

In addition, flavonoids can also be obtained in supplement form. However, consult a nutritionist first before you take supplements. This is because flavonoid supplements can cause several side effects, such as:

• Headache
• Dizzy and nervous
• Red or itchy skin
• Heart beat
• Blurred vision

To find out more about the benefits of flavonoids, as well as ensure the dosage and types of foods that contain flavonoids, you can consult your doctor. The doctor will suggest a diet including a dose of flavonoids according to your condition.