Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a leading cause of mortality worldwide. The identification of dietary components that can promote cardiovascular health has garnered significant attention. Flavonoids, a diverse group of plant-derived compounds, have gained recognition for their potential benefits in reducing the risk of CVDs and improving heart function. This article explores the effects of flavonoids on cardiovascular health and their role in combating cardiovascular diseases.
Numerous studies have suggested that flavonoids can reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. For example, a study by Liu et al., 2000 found that higher flavonoid intake, particularly from berries and citrus fruits, was associated with a lower risk of myocardial infarction (heart attack) in women. Similarly, a study conducted by Cassidy et al., 2012 reported a significant inverse relationship between flavonoid intake and CVD mortality in a large cohort of men and women.
Flavonoids possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which are crucial in maintaining cardiovascular health. Chronic inflammation and oxidative stress are key contributors to the development and progression of CVDs. By reducing inflammation and neutralizing free radicals, flavonoids can protect against endothelial dysfunction, arterial plaque formation, and other pathological processes involved in CVDs.
In addition to reducing the risk of CVDs, flavonoids have shown potential in improving heart function. For instance, a study by Dower et al., 2015 demonstrated that flavonoid-rich cocoa consumption improved endothelial function and lowered blood pressure in individuals with hypertension. Another study by Erlund et al., 2018 found that flavonoid-rich berry intake improved vascular function and increased levels of beneficial nitric oxide, which helps regulate blood pressure and vascular tone.
The cardioprotective effects of flavonoids are thought to be mediated through various mechanisms. Flavonoids can modulate signaling pathways involved in inflammation, oxidative stress, lipid metabolism, and vascular function. They can also enhance the production and activity of nitric oxide, leading to improved endothelial function and vasodilation.
Flavonoid-rich foods are hereby recommended as part of a balanced diet as they tend to offer protective effects for cardiovascular health.
References
- Cassidy, A., O’Reilly, É. J., Kay, C., Sampson, L., Franz, M., Forman, J. P., … & Rimm, E. B. (2011). Habitual intake of flavonoid subclasses and incident hypertension in adults. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 93(2), 338-347.
- Dower, J. I., Geleijnse, J. M., Gijsbers, L., Zock, P. L., Kromhout, D., & Hollman, P. C. (2015). Effects of the pure flavonoids epicatechin and quercetin on vascular function and cardiometabolic health: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover trial. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 101(5), 914-921.
- Erlund, I., Koli, R., Alfthan, G., Marniemi, J., Puukka, P., Mustonen, P., … & Jula, A. (2008). Favorable effects of berry consumption on platelet function, blood pressure, and HDL cholesterol. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, 87(2), 323-331.
- Liu, S., Manson, J. E., Lee, I. M., Cole, S. R., Hennekens, C. H., Willett, W. C., & Buring, J. E. (2000). Fruit and vegetable intake and risk of cardiovascular disease: the Women’s Health Study. The American journal of clinical nutrition, 72(4), 922-928.