Overview
Flavonoids assist in improving the function of vitamin C and protects it from oxidation. They fall under the category of phytochemicals, meaning that they are produced and accumulate in plants.
Function
Flavonoids are essential for blood vessel health and lowering blood pressure. As an antioxidant, flavonoids have anti-inflammatory properties.
Forms Available
Recommended Intake
There are no official intake values yet for flavonoids, as more research needs to be conducted.
Deficiency
Flavonoids are very commonly found in the average diet; a deficiency is unlikely.
Sources in the Diet
Edible pulp of citrus fruits, rose hips, apricots, cherries, grapes, black currants, green pepper, broccoli, onions, and tomatoes are good sources. Green tea and red wine have several flavonoids as well as many herbs: billberry, hawthorn, ginkgo, and milk thistle.
Recent Studies and Articles
Flavonoids and prostate cancer
http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2012/10/121017122812.htm
Preventing blood clots
http://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2012/05/flavonoid-compound-can-prevent-blood-clots/
Flavonoids and strawberries
http://www.salk.edu/news/pressrelease_details.php?press_id=500
