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What is referred to often as vitamin P is in fact the nutrients known better as flavonoids which are rich in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Flavonoids are not a class of vitamins but are phytonutrients full of nourishing propertients that strengthen the body. The plant-based compounds give plants, veggies and fruits their colour and protect them from damage caused by harmful ultraviolet rays. The plant compounds also fortify the immune response of flora in which they are found in abundant quantities and help to ward off infectious diseases.
Studies indicate that there are thousands of flavonoids which are classified into some major categories including flavanols, flavones and isoflavones among others. These flavonoids are found in foods like olive oil, soya, cocoa, apples, grapes, berries and other readily available fruits and vegetables.
Consuming a healthy intake of vitamin P, or flavonoids has multiple health benefits. Flavonoids can be added easily to every day diet by incorporating antioxidant-rich foods like oranges, lemons, dark chocolate and green tea into your meals. Bioflavonoids like rutin, quercetin and hesperidin found in these foods can have a tremendous impact on strengthening the immune system and enhancing gut health. Read on below for some properties of vitamin P or flavonoids that have major health benefits making it essential to incorporate these foods into your daily diet:
Rich In Antioxidants
Vitamin P or flavonoids have a high proportion of antioxidants which help to rid the body of radical cell damage and flush out harmful toxins that can cause infections or unhealthy bacterial growth. The antioxidants in foods like oranges and apples also help to rid the gut of toxic waste materials.
Anti-Allergic Properties
Quercetin, is a flavonoid known to provide relief in case of severe allergies that cause sneezing or a runny nose because they may stabilise mast cells which in turn promote the production of anti-allergens like histamine. Flavonoids can also encourage the production of other inflammatory mediators that can fend off allergies.
Improve Eye And Skin Health
Flavonoids present in fruits and vegetables can help to boost overall eye and skin health by inhibiting macular degeneration. Vitamin P also strengthens skin capillaries which reduces the risk of bruising and varicose veins while it acts on the eyes by promoting healthy blood vessels that can lower the tendency of developing cataracts and boost excellent vision.
Improve Immunity
Rich in antioxidants and filled with anti-inflammatory properties, it is no surprise that foods with high flavonoid content can help to build the body's defence mechanism to counteract the threat of severe infections and diseases. Bioflavonoids help to reduce oxidative stress which neutralises free radicals and reduces tissue swelling that can be symptomatic of infection.
Reduce Cancer Risk
Certain studies have indicated that antioxidants present in flavonoids can help to lower the risk of developing tumours that can cause malignant breast, lung and colon cancer. For extracting the most benefits out of flavonoids present in foods, it is extremely essential to monitor how these fruits and veggies are consumed to ensure that they are absorbed to their optimum by the body.
Promote Cardiovascular Health
Vitamin P is known to have excellent effect on heart health. The high proportion of antioxidants can help to regulate blood pressure and do away with bad cholesterol. They help to improve blood vessel function too, thereby enhancing the heart's overall ability to pump healthy blood without the risk of developing blockages. Adding foods like citrusy fruits and leafy greens to the diet can have a good impact on boosting overall heart health.
Reduce Inflammation
Tissue swelling or inflammation in the body is linked to its response to diseases and infections. Enhanced inflammation can be an indication of the body trying to fend off harmful disease-causing toxins. Since flavonoids help to boost the immune system and rid the body of toxic substances, they inevitably help to lower inflammation levels promoting overall fitness.
