Polyphenols: Nature’s Secret for Brain Health?

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Today’s topic: Polyphenols for Brain Health

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In recent years, polyphenols have gained significant attention in the health and wellness community. These naturally occurring compounds, found abundantly in fruits, vegetables, tea, coffee, and wine (as well as diets eaten by the longest-lived people on Earth) are typically touted for their antioxidant properties and health benefits. One of the most intriguing and promising areas of research is how polyphenols impact brain health. This blog delves into the fascinating world of polyphenols and their positive effects on the brain, and how to leverage this information in your diet today!

Understanding Polyphenols

Polyphenols are a diverse group of nutrients found in plants called phytochemicals. There are over 8,000 different polyphenol compounds. They are broadly categorized into groups including flavonoids, phenolic acids and others. Each group contains a variety of subtypes, each with its own unique properties and potential health benefits.

• Flavonoids: Found in fruits, vegetables, tea, and wine, flavonoids are the largest group of polyphenols. Examples include quercetin, kaempferol, and catechins like EGCG.

• Phenolic Acids: Commonly found in coffee, fruits, and vegetables, phenolic acids include compounds such as caffeic acid and ferulic acid.

Polyphenols and Brain Health: The Connection

The connection between polyphenols and brain health is an area of active research, with numerous studies indicating that these compounds can have a protective and enhancing effect on brain function. The mechanisms through which polyphenols exert their positive effects on the brain include antioxidant activity, anti-inflammatory properties, modulation of neuroplasticity-related signaling pathways, and improved cerebral blood flow. Recently, it’s also been proposed that polyphenols can improve health through effects on epigenetic expression (changing how our genes are used). In this article, we’ll focus on the immune, signaling pathway and epigenetic potential of these molecules.  

1. Polyphenols May Possess Anti-inflammatory Properties

Chronic inflammation in the brain is a significant factor in the development of neurodegenerative diseases ranging from Alzheimer’s to depression. Due in part to an ability to modify immune cells directly, as well as their effects on other pathways including the gut microbiome, it’s believed that polyphenols can help regulate the immune system and keep chronic inflammation in check. properties that can help mitigate this risk.

2. Polyphenols Influence Key Signaling Pathways

In addition to their effects on immune-related pathways, Polyphenols also modulate various signaling pathways that are linked to brain health. They influence pathways involved in cell survival, neurogenesis (the formation of new neurons), and synaptic plasticity (the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time). These pathways are essential for learning, memory, and overall cognitive function.

For instance, cocoa (rich in polyphenols like epicatechin and catechin) consumption has been shown to enhance brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) levels and is linked to improved cognition. BDNF is a protein that supports the survival and growth of neurons, playing a critical role in long-term memory formation

Product of the Week: Sun Goddess Matcha!

Sun Goddess Matcha from Pique is my favorite daily way to consume tea polyphenols to support my wellness. This tasty drink is loaded with molecules like EGCG, a top polyphenol extensively studied for its effects on promoting wellness for decades. It's also rich in vitamins, minerals and other key nutrients involved in supporting healthy brain function. I love this matcha as an early afternoon pick me up because Pique's matcha contains slow-release caffeine and l-theanine (a calming ingredient), giving me sustained energy without jitters, caffeine crashes, or anxiety.

Pique is fully committed to the highest quality standards, (this matcha has been screened four times for pesticides and heavy metals). I love this matcha as an early afternoon pick me up, and it's an amazing travel companion to boost your polyphenols when your diet is otherwise suboptimal. 

Right now, Pique is offering subscribers to the Better Brain Update up to 15% off your first order plus freebies like a cup and frother. Get your polyphenols in an amazingly delicious format with this special offer by clicking HERE. 

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 Till next time!

-Austin Perlmutter, MD 

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