subject: Want Healthy Blood? Then Check Out These 4 Phenolic Acid Benefits [print this page] The phenolic acids are a group of phytonutrients (non-essential, plant based chemical compounds that have various health benefits in humans) which can be found in a wide range of fruits, nuts and vegetables. Whilst they are not classed as essential nutrients, studies have shown that they can fight viral infections, protect your nervous system and much more. In this article I will be providing a full breakdown of 4 phenolic acid benefits.
1) BOOSTING YOUR BLOOD HEALTH:
Your blood is a crucial for the smooth running of your body. It carries oxygen to where it is needed, helps protect the body from disease and infection (as white blood cells), assists in the removal of waste materials and much more. The good news is that the phenolic acids can keep your blood healthy by reducing blood levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol (a type of cholesterol that causes blockages in your arteries and increases your heart disease risk).
Early studies indicate that the phenolic acids may also lower high blood pressure and prevent sickle cell disease (a disease that causes your body to produce sickle shaped blood cells that restrict the flow of blood). However, additional studies are needed before these effects can be confirmed.
2) KEEPING YOUR NERVOUS SYSTEM HEALTHY:
The nervous system is a highly important network of nerves and neurones. It controls every single process in your body including movement, memory, thought and speech. Fortunately, the phenolic acids can keep the nervous system in tip top shape and protect it from damage.
3) PREVENTING ALLERGIES:
When you experience allergic reactions your body releases a chemical called histamine. Histamine is the reason you experience allergic symptoms and can cause itching, sneezing, swelling and redness. The good news is that 1 of the key phenolic acid benefits is that they act as antihistamines (substances that minimise the effects of histamine). In doing this, they make allergies much easier to deal with.
4) PROTECTING AGAINST VIRAL INFECTIONS:
Viral infections are a specific type of infection caused by viruses. Treating viral infections is very difficult as they host themselves inside your body's cells and constantly mutate into new forms. Fortunately, 1 of the promising phenolic acid benefits is that they might act as antivirals (substances that inhibit the growth of viral infections) and make it much easier for your body to treat these types of infection. However, further evidence is required before these potential antiviral effects can be validated.
SUMMARY:
The phenolic acids are highly protective to the human body. Whilst they are not classed as essential nutrients, you should still definitely include them in your diet. Some of the top phenolic acid foods include hot chilli peppers, melons, olives, pecans, spinach, turmeric and tea. So make sure you are eating these powerful phytonutrients regularly and start enjoying the many phenolic acid benefits.
