Polyphenols are antioxidants that have been widely researched and found to have amazing health benefits. First, polyphenol antioxidants may protect the body’s cells against damage from free radicals that we are exposed to on a daily basis from radiation, cigarette smoke, pollution, etc.  Second, they may reduce the risk factors of cardiovascular disease and may block the action of certain enzymes that contribute to cancer growth. And most important to all of us who want to stay “forever young”, polyphenols may protect us from the symptoms of aging! Now the question is: How can we boost our dietary intake of polyphenol antioxidants?

First you need to eat fruits and vegetables that have dark, rich colors such as blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, red grapes, eggplant, purple potatoes, etc. Try to buy from local farms where the produce is grown organically because these will be much higher in polyphenols. Studies have shown that organic produce grown without pesticides develops a stronger antioxidant defense system and therefore more polyphenols to protect the produce from diseases and insects.

Second, eat dark chocolate (in moderation) and unsweetened cocoa, two more excellent sources of polyphenols. Next, drink polyphenol rich beverages, such as caffeinated tea, especially green teas, caffeinated coffee, and fruit juices with no added sugar, such as pure blueberry, pomegranate or unfiltered apple juice. These beverages are easily absorbed sources of polyphenol antioxidants that you can drink throughout the day to keep your level of polyphenols maintained.

Then there’s red wine, an extra rich source for the very popular polyphenol called resveratrol. Resveratrol is the natural compound produced by a plant to act as an antibiotic to protect it from environmental stress, such as harsh weather, insects and bacteria.  Resveratrol has been in the news more in the past few years since it was promoted on various TV shows, including 60 Minutes. Scientific research has shown that resveratrol may improve cardiovascular health by helping to prevent damage to blood vessels and reducing “bad” cholesterol. Other research has demonstrated that resveratrol may promote anti-aging and anti-inflammation, may boost the immune system, may reduce the symptoms of Type 2 diabetes and aid in the prevention of certain cancers.

But if this sounds like too much hassle for you or drinking red wine could be a problem, there’s a way to get all the health benefits of polyphenol antioxidants from a dietary supplement. We recommend Perfect ResGrape Resveratrol with 200mg of Trans-resveratrol and 1000mg of whole food Muscadine grapes, an excellent source of polyphenols, and Perfect ResGrape Max with 400mg of Trans-resveratrol in every serving.  Both of these dietary supplements are 100% pure, all natural with no additives, fillers, or flow agents. And you can buy with confidence from Perfect Supplements, a family owned business with a tradition of excellence.