Discover the Surprising Drinks that are High in Polyphenols

Polyphenols are a type of compound found in plant-based foods and drinks, which have been linked to numerous health benefits. While we often associate polyphenols with fruits and vegetables, they can also be found in various types of beverages. In this article, we'll take a look at 13 surprising drinks that are high in polyphenols.

First up is red wine, a tasty source of polyphenols when consumed in moderation. Research has shown that moderate red wine consumption may reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and improve insulin sensitivity (6). The polyphenol compounds found in red wine include phenols, anthocyanins, and flavanones, which are highly concentrated due to grape cultivation practices.

Next is coffee, a popular beverage that contains high levels of polyphenols. Specifically, coffee is rich in chlorogenic acid and caffeic acid, both of which have been shown to attenuate oxidative stress caused by glycated LDL (3, 4). In fact, coffee is often considered the single largest source of polyphenols in modern diets.

Tea, particularly green tea, is another drink that contains high levels of polyphenols. However, this article will focus on some lesser-known drinks that are also packed with these beneficial compounds.

Beer and whiskey may not be the first drinks that come to mind when thinking about polyphenols, but they both contain them in varying amounts. Research has shown that moderate beer consumption can have positive effects on cardiovascular health (9), while whiskey has been linked to improved cognitive function and reduced risk of dementia (10).

Other surprising drinks high in polyphenols include matcha green tea, pomegranate juice, and even certain types of sparkling water. These beverages contain a range of polyphenol compounds, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and lignans.

In addition to their individual health benefits, polyphenols have been shown to play an important role in cell signaling and up-regulating the immune system (11). They are also believed to contribute to the purported health benefits of drinks like coffee, green tea, and red wine.

While it's worth noting that excessive consumption of any beverage can have negative effects on overall health, moderate consumption of these polyphenol-rich drinks may provide a range of health benefits. So next time you're reaching for your favorite drink, consider the potential benefits of its polyphenol content.

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Coffee tea wine beer whiskey