Flavonoids from Fruit and Vegetables: A Focus on Cardiovascular Risk Factors

Abstract

Epidemiological studies suggest that high intakes of dietary flavonoids are associated with decreased cardiovascular disease mortality and risk factors. Less is known about the cardioprotective effects of flavonoids from fruit and vegetables. This review summarizes data from studies which examine the effects of commonly consumed fruit and vegetables on cardiovascular disease risk biomarkers in healthy volunteers or at-risk individuals. Although flavonoids from apples, berries, and onions appear to impact positively on blood pressure, vascular function, and serum lipid levels, further research is required to find out the optimal quantity and food matrix for conferring substantial clinical benefit. The benefits from citrus flavonoids are still inconclusive. Further robust, longer-term dietary intervention studies, with the inclusion of placebo or control arms, are required to improve the credibility of the findings and confirm current observations. An improved understanding of the impact of flavonoids from fruit and vegetables can help one make discerning food choices for optimal cardiovascular health.

Genetics and Biochemistry of Zero-Tannin Lentils

“…Flavan-3-ols such as catechin and gallocatechin show anti-inflammatory and anti-oxidative activity and have been associated with the reduction of some cardiovascular diseases [39, 40]. Proanthocyanidins are the major antioxidants entering the colon [5], and they may reduce cholesterol [40], inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells [41], and protect the prostate [42].…”

Advances in flavonoid glycosyltransferase research: integrating recent findings with long-term citrus studies

“…This includes known functions in coloration as Phytochem Rev pigments/co-pigments, UV protection, signaling, male fertility in some species, as well as antimicrobial, antifungal, and antifeedant/feedant roles (reviewed in Winkel-Shirley 2001;Iwashina 2003). Specifically in citrus species, flavones, flavone glycosides, flavanone glycosides, and flavonol glycosides have been shown to act as attractants that induce egg laying by the butterfly species Papilio xuthus and Papilio protentor demetrius (reviewed in Toh et al 2013). However, these flavonoids are only active in combination with other compounds such as adenosine, proline, stachydrine, and quinic acid.…”

Apple as a Source of Dietary Phytonutrients: Bioavailability and Evidence of Protective Effects against Human Cardiovascular Disease

“…Apple consumption, including fresh apple, apple juice, apple extracts, apple polyphenols or apple pectin have been reported to exert cardioprotective effects in various animal models [7] [11] [38]- [41]. Most of these studies have concluded that the health benefits of apple consumption may be related to any of its components, including fiber and phytochemicals.…”