Polyphenols, found in abundance in colorful fruits and vegetables, exhibit a protective effect within the human body in a number of different ways. These compounds and other antioxidants neutralize harmful molecules, called free radicals, which circulate through the body causing damage to integral cell structure. When polyphenols are ingested from a balanced diet or from supplementation, they exhibit protective action on various body systems that are found to be in disarray or disrepair, like the cardiovascular and nervous system, for example.
Free Radicals
Free radicals are natural by-products of everyday processes in human cells. Unfortunately, you can accumulate high levels of them from air pollution, tobacco smoke, UV radiation and other environmental sources. Free radicals contain a rogue electron, making them extremely reactive and destructive. They can trigger cancerous proliferation or contribute to degenerative heart disease.
Polyphenols and Heart Disease
Free radicals that can cause degenerative heart disease can be rendered inactive by polyphenols, which provide extra electrons that stabilize them. Polyphenols also have the ability, in some cases, to totally break down free radicals so that they are not a danger. In progressive heart and circulatory conditions, the University of Massachusetts reports that polyphenol intake can dilate blood vessels, reduce the likelihood of dangerous clots and improve overall vascular function.
Polyphenols and Alzheimer's Disease
Research from Mount Sinai School of Medicine in July 2011 reported polyphenols may be able to treat and prevent cases of Alzheimer's disease. The study administered polyphenic extracts to mice with genetically determined memory deficits and levels of neurotoxins commonly found in Alzheimer's patients. The experiment concluded that the mice treated with polyphenols had significantly less of the peptide that contributes to Alzheimer's. More study is needed to determine the procedure's effectiveness in humans.
Polyphenols and Cancer
Many cancers are at least partially caused by the proliferation of free radical populations within the body. In one study reported by Penn State University, the recurrence of oral cancer was significantly decreased in patients who were given a polyphenol-rich blueberry gel.
References
- Penn State University; How Do Antioxidants Work; K. Sandeep Prabhu; August 2008
- University of Massachusetts Medical School: Preventing Heart and Vascular Disease -- Questions and Answers
- Mount Sinai School of Medicine; A Natural Chemical Found in Grape Seeds May Prevent Development or Progression of Alzheimer's [press release]; 2001
