What Are Flavonoids? And Why Are They So Good For Us?

Flavonoids are not people who are annoyed by flavour (see what I did there…?). They’re actually a fascinating group of compounds found in plant products (like teas, fruits, and vegetables) that contain amazing antioxidant properties. When we eat food containing flavonoids, these compounds and their antioxidants do wonders for our bodies. I’m talking about great things like improving heart health or reducing inflammation. The reason we’re blogging about this is because flavonoids can be found in citrus and THAT is what we’re all about here.

What are Flavonoids?

Flavonoids are compounds. These compounds have various subtypes. The subtypes can be found in all sorts of different foods. The image below is a great reference point (read more from that article here) and as you can see, the subtype Flavanones is what you can find in citrus fruits.

Why are Flavonoids so good for us?

The simple answer is because of the antioxidant activity within flavonoids. Here’s why that is important.

When our bodies are not able to neutralise an over production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) this is called oxidative stress. The ROS that are classified as free radicals (some are non-radical species) will cause cell and tissue damage. For example, exposure to smoking, alcohol, radiation, infection, pollution and sun exposure will increase our production of ROS and can cause oxidative stress.

Antioxidants help to fight off free radicals and protect and prevent damage to our cells by restoring the balance between free radicals and antioxidants within the body.

When we consume foods rich in flavonoids, these compounds work within our bodies to combat oxidative stress, boost our immune system, and promote overall well-being.

Flavonoids in citrus.

Citrus is one food group loaded with flavonoids and health-promoting antioxidants. This means that eating citrus, along with other immune boosting foods, can protect you against a heap of everyday toxins and stressors.

Research has shown that the flavonoids Naringin, naringenin, nobelitin, narirutin, and hesperidin are the most important flavonoids isolated within citrus fruits as they contain strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. And if you’re wondering which citrus fruits have the highest amount of flavonoids then you’re in luck. The National Institute of Health listed oranges, mandarins, grapefruit, lemons, bergamots and limes as varieties being the most “notably rich in flavonoid content”’.

Hunt down citrus for your flavonoid fix

If you need another reason to enjoy seasonal, delicious and healthy citrus then a good dose of flavonoids may be your next excuse. Given the human body is made up of trillions of cells, the importance of preserving them is pretty high up there when it comes to a long and healthy life and immune system resilience. Who would have thought the humble orange could be so powerful?

Hunt down your next flavonoid fix and find Dracula Citrus^™ where all good Australian citrus is sold. We’re in peak season and extra delicious between May and November.

For more information on the benefits of citrus and delicious recipes, visit our recipes page, read our other blogs.