Bioflavonoids are substances in red wine, fruits and legumes that have several beneficial effects on your health. Some may have a protective effect on your heart and protect against damage from cholesterol. They may also assist in preventing blood clots. Bioflavonoid deficiencies are not common, but they are possible if you do not eat enough bioflavonoid-rich foods.
Types
There are several types of bioflavonoids, or flavonoids, found in foods ranging from fruits to teas. Isoflavones are a subclass of bioflavonoids found in soy and legumes. Monomers, or catechins, are in teas, berries, chocolate, grapes and red wine. Anthocyandins are found in grapes, berries and red wine. Citrus fruits contain flavonones. Hot peppers, celery, parsley and thyme have flavones. Organosulfurs are in onions and garlic . The other subclass of bioflavonoids are flavonols, which are found in broccoli, berries, apples, teas, scallions and yellow onions.
Deficiency Symptoms
Symptoms of a bioflavonoid deficiency are similar to those of a vitamin C deficiency. The most noted symptoms include bruising more easily, an increased tendency to bleed and greater likelihood to hemorrhage. Hemorrhaging is when blood escapes from a ruptured blood vessel. Inflammation is also more likely if you have a bioflavonoid deficiency, such as inflammation related to arthritis.
Supplements
Eating more foods with bioflavonoids and taking supplements help you correct a deficiency. Your doctor can tell you if you need to take supplements. You can get anthocyanins supplements over-the-counter that are berry extracts. Flavonol supplements that come from teas are also available without a prescription. Green tea extracts are the most common, though you can also find supplements from oolong and black tea. Citrus bioflavonoid supplements are another choice. These contain flavanones, flavones and flavonols. Before supplementing, however, consult a physician or registered dietitian for guidance.
Side Effects
You can eat bioflavonoid foods without suffering adverse effects. Some supplements, however, might cause some side effects. According to the Linus Pauling Institute, bioflavonoid supplements from tea extracts and querectin may cause reactions such as liver toxicity. Gastrointestinal issues, including nausea, diarrhea and abdominal pain are potential side effects as well. Issues involving the central nervous system are possible too. These include confusion, dizziness, tremors and agitation. Muscle pain is another known side effects, according to the institute. You may also experience tingling in your extremities, headaches or nausea from taking quercetin supplements. If you have any medical conditions or are taking medications, you may experience additional side effects and interactions. Speak with your doctor before you take supplements of any kind.
