Bioflavonoid – Uses, Benefits, Sources and Dosage
Bioflavonoid is also known as the vitamin P. Bioflavonoid is described as group of phytonutrients found in plants and also one of most versatile nutrients which offer the all over health of body. These are the complex compounds closely associated with the vitamin C and found in variety of plants particularly in citrus fruits. It has been studied that bioflavonoid aids in protecting the vitamin C from oxidation which allows the body to obtain more benefits from vitamin C. There are various herbs who exhibit the medicinal properties because they are also packed with bioflavonoid. Bioflavonoid is considered as the strong antioxidants as these enhance the effectiveness of vitamin c. These help to protect the collagen from the blockage of collagenase (the collagen destroying enzyme). These also help to strengthen the blood vessels and improves the oxygen supply to cells.
Bioflavonoid is classified into seven major types:
- Flavones
- Flavonols
- Flavonones
- Isoflavonoids
- Anthocyanins
- Chalcones
- Catechins
Health Benefits of Bioflavonoid
Bioflavonoid is packed with anti-aging, anti-mutagenic, anti-carcinogenic properties and also support the good health of circulatory system.
Health Benefits of Bioflavonoid are Classified into two Categories:-
1. Health-promoting effects
The health-promoting effects of bioflavonoid include improved eyesight, good cardiovascular health and improved structure of connective tissues, good skin health and healthy immune system.
2. Therapeutic effects
Bioflavonoid play an important role in the treatment and prevention of diseases, which are listed below:-
- Allergies
- Asthma
- Atopic Dermatitis
- Cataract
- Diabetes
- Gout
- Muscular Degeneration
- Migraine
- Stomach Ulcers
- Varicose Veins
- Cancer
- Heart Disease
Sources of Bioflavonoids
These are found in the in fruits, vegetables and some beverages, which are made from plants.
- Flavonols are found in cabbage, onion, broccoli, lettuce, tomato, apple, grapes, berries and tea.
- Flavones found in parsley and celery.
- Flavanones are commonly found in the citrus fruits like oranges, sweet lime and amla etc.
- Isoflavones found in soy beans and soy products.
- Catechins are commonly found in tea, chocolate, red wine, apples, and berries.
- Anthocyanidins are found in red cabbage, black currant, red cabbage, plum, blue Congo, lingonberry, red currant and cranberry.
- Neoflavonoids are obtained from the plants like Dalbergia nitidula and Calophyllum inophyllum.
- Chalcones are found in Angelica keiskei plant and Ashitaba tea.
- Proanthocyanidins – Commonly found in apples, pine bark, cinnamon, grape seed, cocoa, grape skin, and red wines. To a lesser degree; bilberry, cranberry, black currant, green and black tea.
Bioflavonoid Side Effects
There are very less chances of side effects of bioflavonoid. But one can have these signs of allergy like shortness of breath, hives and swelling on face, lips, tongue, or throat.
Deficiency of Bioflavonoid
Bioflavonoid deficiency is similar to vitamin deficiency. Symptoms may include the bruising very faster and hemorrhage. Inflammation associated with arthritis may also occur in the Bioflavonoid deficiency. Diabetes, asthma, allergies and nutrients deficiencies in the pregnant and breast feeding women also occur due to the bioflavonoid deficiency.
