Benefits of Flavonoids for Gut Health

The gut and microbiome play a vital role in painting the overall picture of health. It has a significant impact on the functioning of the brain, mood, digestion and immune system. Key focus is placed on restoring gut health for the optimum functioning of the body. Much like the gut, flavonoids have a variety of functions within the body. Flavonoids are a type of chemical compound found in plants. They demonstrate bioactive abilities by fighting against inflammatory compounds and free radicals. Pre-clinical studies indicate that flavonoids could affect intestinal function. Implementing flavonoids into the diet may be used as a tool in improving these functions, ensuring optimal health. 

What are flavonoids?

The topic of flavonoids is becoming increasingly relevant across the world, due to their disease fighting abilities. They are plant derived molecules with a polyphenol structure. Polyphenols are able to scavenge free radicals and protect against the effects of oxidative stress within the body. They are recognised as phytochemicals with bioactive abilities. These chemicals are present in plant foods, fruits, vegetables and grains. In terms of flavonoid health benefits, numerous studies indicate flavonoids are able to provide the body with benefits that supersede basic nutrition. They have been shown to provide protection against chronic diseases, due to their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

A link between the gut and flavonoids 

Gut inflammation can lead to downstream complications within the body. It plays a role in chronic diseases affecting many individuals. Cardiovascular disease, diabetes and inflammatory bowel disease are conditions that are prevalent in millions of individuals across the world. A key point to remember is that these conditions are linked to gut health. Due to the increasing burden of chronic diseases over time, it is necessary to find effective and easily accessible treatments to prevent and manage these conditions. According to a number of scientific studies, flavonoids have the ability to inhibit gut inflammation.

Metabolism of flavonoids

Flavonoids are metabolised in the body following the consumption of flavonoid-rich foods. This process is carried out by tissues and microbiota. Flavonoid metabolites alter the microbiota and optimise its overall functioning. Pathogens causing dysregulation within the gut are inhibited, and the growth of beneficial bacteria is promoted. This leads to a reduction in the amount of inflammation causing toxins produced in the gut. Intestinal barrier function is also improved by flavonoids through the inhibition of inflammatory signaling mechanisms, and by a reduction in oxidative stress. Overall, gut homeostasis can be maintained with the dietary consumption of foods rich in flavonoids. This impacts whole-body health positively, since the gut is the pathway to improved functioning of major systems in the body.

Flavonoid rich foods

The effect of flavonoids promotes the health of the whole body, due to its corresponding links to gut health. It provides a nutraceutical approach for individuals dealing with chronic diseases. This emphasises the importance of consuming flavonoid rich foods and supplements. Some foods that are high in flavonoids and play a role in the optimal functioning of the body include:

1. Fruits and vegetables
2. Green tea
3. Garlic 
4. Turmeric
5. Ginger 
6. Whole grains
7. Coffee

Summary

Gut health is important in the prevention and treatment of different chronic diseases. A simple and effective way to improve gut health is through the consumption of flavonoid-rich foods. Flavonoids are natural polyphenolic compounds present in plants. They have bioactive properties and are able to eliminate free radicals and promote anti-inflammatory effects within the body. A link is presented between flavonoids and gut health through the inhibitory effect on gut inflammation. They play a role in altering the microbiota within the gut and optimise its overall functioning. Foods rich in flavonoids include fruits and vegetables, green tea and turmeric, which are all easily accessible and possess health-promoting benefits. Including flavonoid-rich foods in the diet, provides a nutraceutical approach in the prevention, treatment and management of several chronic diseases.