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Polyphenols are powerful natural nutrients that act as antioxidants, protecting against the attacks of free radicals in the body. The presence of an excess of these free radicals, which are highly unstable molecules which can cause widespread damage throughout the body, is triggered by stress, pollution, direct exposure to sunlight, an unbalanced diet, smoking, and other factors.
Many vegetables, fruits and nuts contain significant amounts of polyphenols. Depending on the food source, some provide more antioxidants than others. In general, our Western dietary habits tend to exclude the fruit and vegetables needed in our daily menu, which reduces our intake of polyphenols with antioxidant benefits.
There are critical factors involved in vascular damage — endothelial dysfunction and blood clotting are two of the most critical.20-22
Research has shown that polyphenols — beneficial compounds found in plants — have multiple applications for cardiac health.
Super Polyphenol Extracts with CocoaGold™ contains a diverse blend of polyphenols — including cocoa, apple, aronia, and green tea — to support vascular health.
Standardized cocoa polyphenols have been shown to induce rapid and significant improvement in endothelial and platelet function.23 Additionally, studies of cocoa polyphenols show that they can maintain already healthy HDL, blood pressure, and blood glucose levels in those already within normal ranges.24-28* A recent randomized, controlled clinical trial showed daily consumption of 6.3 g of dark chocolate containing 30 mg of polyphenols can improve endothelial function, increase formation of vasodilative nitric oxide, and help maintain healthy blood pressure levels that are already within normal range.36 Another clinical trial documented that dark chocolate containing cocoa polyphenols induces coronary vasodilation, and supports healthy coronary vascular function, and platelet adhesion two hours after consumption.37*
Scientists have found that apple polyphenols help maintain healthy blood lipids,29 and also support healthy bones.30,31 The highly concentrated polyphenols in aronia provide cardiovascular energizing benefits, plus also help with regulating inflammatory reactions.32-34
Green tea polyphenols have shown beneficial effects in protecting cellular DNA integrity throughout the body.35 |