Enhanced Omega-3 (EO3) is the first multi-nutritional Omega-3 fruit smoothie. This smoothie is considered an antioxidant superfood that is rich in polyphenols. But…what exactly are polyphenols?
The discussion around polyphenols started around 1995, making it a relatively new topic that is constantly being researched! (Bertelli, Alberto et al). Polyphenols are organic compounds found in plants. More research has been emerging in the nutrition field regarding the plausible effects of the consumption of polyphenols.
Polyphenols are typically found in fruits, vegetables, dried legumes, and cereals. Fruit that contains polyphenols include grapes, apples, pears, cherries, and berries. These fruits can contain up to 300 milligrams of polyphenols per 100 grams of fruit. (Pandey, Kanti Bhooshan, and Syed Ibrahim Rizvi). Polyphenols are also found in more decadent choices that we all love, including chocolate, wine, tea, and coffee. A standard glass of red wine (which is 5 fluid ounces), a cup of tea, or a cup of coffee contains about 100 milligrams of polyphenols (Pandey, Kanti Bhooshan, and Syed Ibrahim Rizvi). Cereals, dry legumes, and chocolate contribute to smaller amounts of polyphenol intake.
Now that we know polyphenols are found in so many food and beverage choices, what are the benefits?
Polyphenols are known to act as antioxidants and provide protective measures for cells, especially cells that have aged. that Many studies have shown an inverse association between chronic diseases and the consumption of a polyphenolic-rich diet (Pandey, Kanti Bhooshan, and Syed Ibrahim Rizvi). These polyphenols are antioxidants, which are known to protect cells against oxidative damage and limit the risk of diseases associated with oxidative stress, including Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease (Pandey, Kanti Bhooshan, and Syed Ibrahim Rizvi). There is also an association between polyphenols and cardiovascular health. When oxidized LDL accumulates, it causes plaque buildup in the arteries (known as atherosclerosis), which can lead to a heart attack. Polyphenols also protect the heart, by slowing down the production of oxidized LDL cholesterol (also known as the bad cholesterol).
While there are many studies showing the benefits of polyphenols, making healthy choices regarding polyphenols is important. For example, because polyphenols are found in red wine, it is important to still consume wine in moderation since it is known to increase blood pressure and the risk of liver disease. Instead, you can increase fruit and vegetable intake and try consuming EO3, which contains Omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and protein, which are all beneficial to health. If you are looking to boost your polyphenol intake, EO3 is a great way to get it!
References:
Bertelli, Alberto et al. “Polyphenols: From Theory to Practice.” Foods (Basel, Switzerland) vol. 10,11 2595. 27 Oct. 2021, doi:10.3390/foods10112595
Pandey, Kanti Bhooshan, and Syed Ibrahim Rizvi. “Plant polyphenols as dietary antioxidants in human health and disease.” Oxidative medicine and cellular longevity vol. 2,5 (2009): 270-8. doi:10.4161/oxim.2.5.9498