1. Health

Discuss in my forum

Flavonoids

By , About.com Guide

Updated February 24, 2009

About.com Health's Disease and Condition content is reviewed by the Medical Review Board

Definition: Flavonoids are a family of chemicals that naturally occur in a variety of vegetables, fruits, and certain other foods and beverages. Flavonoids also contain antioxidants, which are able to protect against damage to cells induced by free radicals and other oxidative processes. They are also thought to help lower the incidence of LDL oxidation, which contributes to the formation of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

Chemicals that are classified as flavonoids include catechins, flavones, and anthocyanidins.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.

We comply with the HONcode standard
for trustworthy health
information: verify here.