How are polyphenols good for my health?

Polyphenols are plant chemicals rich in antioxidants, which can reduce inflammation in the body and promote heart health. Watch nutritionist Janet Brill, PhD/RD, discuss the benefits of polyphenols, and how they are found in wine and chocolate.

Polyphenols are good for health because they are potent antioxidants that quench free radicals; they are found in wine, coffee, tea, and chocolate. Watch neurologist David Perlmutter, MD, discuss why you should include polyphenols in your diet. 

Polyphenols are part of a larger family of non-nutritive chemicals called phytochemicals. Found in plants, phytochemicals protect us against diseases. Researchers have identified more than 900 different phytochemicals in foods and are discovering more. One serving of fruit or vegetables is estimated to contain more than 100 different phytochemicals. Studies show that polyphenols in particular can protect the arteries by lowering bad LDL cholesterol in the blood, increasing a substance that causes the veins and arteries to relax, and preventing platelets from sticking.

Polyphenols are a group of antioxidant compounds derived from plants -- notably found in coffee -- that can protect our cells and reduce inflammation in the body. Watch as "Medicine Hunter" Chris Kilham discusses the healthy benefits of polyphenols.