Bioflavonoids
- page
- Nextpage
Although bioflavonoids are sometimes referred to as ‘vitamin P substances’, they are not true vitamins. They are, however, natural antioxidants.
Antioxidant action
Bioflavonoids are powerful antioxidants with the ability to neutralise the potentially damaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable by-products of the chemical reactions that take place in our bodies. Exposure to environmental pollution increases the amount of free radicals that are made in our bodies.
In their efforts to become stable inside and outside cells, free radicals cause knock-on effects that include damage to the cell membranes, proteins and DNA. In healthy body tissues, antioxidant systems neutralise the effects of free radicals, ending the chain of knock-on effects and preventing damage from occurring.
The antioxidant properties of bioflavonoids are similar to those of vitamin C, and therefore bioflavonoid antioxidants can work in place of vitamin C, leaving more vitamin C available for other functions in the body.
Bioflavonoids can also help to maintain the tone of blood vessels and therefore may help to maintain a healthy circulation. Bioflavonoids are very stable and can withstand heating and storage.
Food sources
Bioflavonoids occur naturally in the skins of fruit and vegetables. Major food sources include:
- apples
- berries
- grapes
- onions
- red wine
- tea
- honey.
Copyright 2007 © Boots UK Limited
This information does not replace medical advice. If you are concerned you might have a medical problem please ask your Boots pharmacy team in your local Boots store, or see your doctor.
