Polyphenol: meaning, definitions and examples
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polyphenol
[pəˈlɪfɪˌnoʊl ]
Definition
Context #1 | Noun
nutrition science
Polyphenols are a category of compounds that occur naturally in plants, known for their antioxidant properties and potential health benefits. They play a role in the prevention of various diseases and are abundant in foods like fruits, vegetables, tea, and red wine.
Synonyms
antioxidants, flavonoids, phytonutrients.
Examples of usage
- Polyphenols found in dark chocolate can improve heart health.
- Green tea is rich in polyphenols, which may help reduce inflammation.
- Research suggests that polyphenols can enhance brain function.
- Eating a diet high in polyphenols may lower the risk of chronic diseases.
Interesting Facts
Etymology
- The term comes from the Greek 'poly,' meaning 'many,' and the '-phenol' part refers to a group of chemicals that come from plants.
- Polyphenols have been studied since the early 19th century, starting with the identification of phenolic compounds in plants.
Health Benefits
- Research suggests polyphenols can help reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to better overall health.
- They are found in foods like fruits, vegetables, tea, and red wine, often linked to heart health and longevity.
Food Science
- Polyphenols are responsible for the colors and bitterness in many fruits and vegetables, giving them their unique tastes.
- Some cooking methods can increase the levels of polyphenols in food, such as steaming vegetables instead of boiling them.
Cultural Impact
- In traditional medicine, polyphenol-rich foods have been used to promote health and wellness for centuries.
- Many cultures celebrate the consumption of herbal teas, which are rich in polyphenols, as a way to boost health.
Research and Innovation
- Scientists are exploring the potential of polyphenols in developing new dietary supplements for enhancing human health.
- Recent studies have focused on how polyphenols could play a role in preventing chronic diseases, such as diabetes and certain cancers.
Word Frequency Rank
This word's position of #34,457 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.
- ...
- 34454 enigmatically
- 34455 tainting
- 34456 ungulate
- 34457 polyphenol
- 34458 traduced
- 34459 undependable
- 34460 criminologist
- ...