Bioflavonoids, or flavonoids (once referred to as vitamin P), are a large class of naturally occurring plant compounds found in a wide range of foods. They occur naturally in citrus fruits, apples, figs, berries, vegetables and herbs. Other dietary sources include red wine, dark chocolate (70% cocoa and above), green and black tea, and buckwheat¹.
In the early 20th century, flavonoids were initially thought to be a vitamin and were referred to as “vitamin P”. However, they are now recognised as plant compounds that contribute to general health and wellbeing. They are often found alongside vitamin C in foods and are known to work in combination with it within the body¹.
Citrus bioflavonoids
Citrus bioflavonoids include compounds such as hesperidin, hesperetin, quercetin, rutin and naringin.
These compounds are widely recognised for their antioxidant properties, helping to reduce free radical damage to body cells¹. Diets rich in flavonoid-containing foods are associated with supporting general health and wellbeing².
Rutin (rutoside)
Rutin is found in foods such as buckwheat, citrus fruits, apples and certain herbs.
It contributes to antioxidant activity in the body and plays a role in supporting the normal function of vitamin C¹.
Some research has explored the broader biological activity of rutin, however its primary recognised role in nutrition is related to its antioxidant contribution when consumed as part of a balanced diet¹.
Hesperidin
Hesperidin is a flavonoid commonly found in citrus fruits, particularly in the peel and pulp.
It contributes to the antioxidant activity of citrus foods and supports general health and wellbeing when consumed as part of a varied diet².
Key Takeaway Points
- Bioflavonoids are found in citrus fruits, berries, vegetables, and some herbs
- They are also present in foods such as green and black tea, dark chocolate and buckwheat
- Citrus bioflavonoids contribute antioxidant activity and help reduce free radical damage to body cells
- Often found alongside vitamin C and work in combination within the body
Important Information
This information is provided for general health and wellbeing and is not intended as medical advice. If you have any health concerns or questions, please speak with your healthcare professional. Always read the label and follow the directions for use.
References
- Mahmoud A.M. et al. Beneficial Effects of Citrus Flavonoids on Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health. Nutrients. 2019. Available from: https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC6431442/
- Miles E.A. et al. Effects of Citrus Fruit Juices and Their Bioactive Components on Inflammation and Immunity. Nutrients. 2021. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34249019/
- Testai L, Calderone V. Nutraceutical Value of Citrus Flavanones and Their Implications in Cardiovascular Disease. Nutrients. 2017;9(5):502. Published 2017 May 16. doi:10.3390/nu9050502
- WebMD. Rutin: Overview and General Information. Available from: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-270/rutin
- Therapeutic Research Center. Hesperidin Monograph. Available from: https://www.vital.ly/trc/Hesperidin/monograph=673/
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