subject: Fight Free Radicals And More With Gallic Acid [print this page] Gallic acid is a phenolic acid that can be found in walnuts and has various health benefits. Research has revealed that it can reduce unnecessary inflammation, treat diabetes and more. In this article I will be providing a detailed breakdown of gallic acid.
1) DISCOVERY:
Gallic acid was discovered in 1818 by Henri Braconnot - a French chemist and pharmacist. Prior to this discovery, gallic acid was used to remove the top layer of text from manuscripts and uncover the hidden text underneath. Early photographers also used this natural nutrient to develop images.
2) HEALTH BENEFITS:
Gallic acid has a wide range of health benefits in the human body. For starters, it is a potent antioxidant (a substance that fights damaging free radicals). Free radicals are harmful by-products that are released when your body's cells react with oxygen and are believed to increase your chances of developing cancer, increases your chances of developing diabetes, weaken your immune system and increase the visible signs of ageing.
Additionally, this phenolic acid is a potent antihistamine (a substance that negates the effects of histamine and minimises allergic reactions) and an anti-inflammatory (a substance that reduces unnecessary inflammation in the body).
Finally, this phenolic acid prevents cancer (a disease where your cells start to grow in a rapid, uncontrollable way), diabetes (a condition where your blood glucose levels become extremely high), internal bleeding and neuronal disorders.
3) FOOD SOURCES:
Most plant based foods contain some gallic acid. Walnuts are by far the richest food source and contain an impressive 1,625 milligrams (mg) per 100 grams (g). Oranges also contain a reasonable 84mg per 100g. In addition to this, gallnuts, grapes and tea are good gallic acid foods but the amounts they contain are not known.
4) OVERDOSE SYMPTOMS:
Natural gallic acid has no reported overdose symptoms. However, taking large amounts of gallic acid supplements can interfere with certain high blood pressure medications. So if you are taking high blood pressure medications be sure to consult your doctor before consuming any gallic acid supplements.
5) SUMMARY:
Although gallic acid is not believed to be essential in humans, it can give your health a serious boost. Walnuts are also rich in a wide range of nutrients such as polyunsaturated fats, vitamins and minerals. So next time you are doing your weekly shop skip past the crisp aisle and pick up some walnuts instead. Not only are they a brilliant and nutritious snack but they will also supply your body with a healthy dose of gallic acid.
