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The Essential Role of Antioxidants in Daily Life

In each of our cells, energy factories work at full capacity. These factories, the mitochondria, use nutrients (carbohydrates, lipids) to produce energy (ATP). During this process, free radicals are released—oxidizing molecules somewhat like sparks from a wood-burning fire. These “sparks” are usually well managed by the cells. But with aging, stress, and/or an inadequate diet, our ability to counter free radicals can be exceeded. That’s where antioxidants from our diet come into play.

Are all antioxidants equal?

The structure of antioxidants is highly diverse, and their effects are numerous. They are sometimes compared to WD-40 for rust, but it is important to understand that not all antioxidants are the same. Each has its own mechanism of action and, above all, specific locations where it operates. Some are fat-soluble (lipophilic) and can more easily penetrate cells, while others are water-soluble (hydrophilic) and act mainly in the extracellular environment (between cells).

Among the best-known antioxidants, you’re certainly familiar with vitamin C (hydrophilic) and vitamin E (lipophilic). But have you heard of polyphenols?

Polyphenols: colorful antioxidants

Berries are among the foods richest in polyphenols.

Polyphenols give fruits and vegetables their colors, ranging from dark blue to red. These molecules are responsible for many of the health benefits attributed to small berries such as blueberries or cranberries.

Polyphenols also give plants their astringent taste. They are compounds produced by plants as a defense against stress factors such as sunlight/UV radiation, herbivores, and microbial infections.

Impressive effects

In humans, these same molecules help combat the effects of “internal rust” (free radicals), from weakened immunity to morning stiffness.

For example, the effectiveness of cranberries in preventing urinary tract infections is well known.¹ But did you know that dark blue berries like elderberry, blueberry, and aronia have been shown to provide numerous cardiovascular benefits?²

The consumption of berries also stimulates the brain to produce neurotrophins (such as BDNF), which promote neuron repair and help maintain neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to stay young.³

Blue pigments, known as anthocyanins, have surprising effects in protecting our cells and even reversing certain age-related conditions. Regular consumption of anthocyanins can help prevent and improve cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and nervous system decline.⁴

Polyphenols can truly be compared to an elixir of healthy longevity. The richer a person’s diet is in diverse polyphenols, the greater their chances of living a long, healthy life.⁵

The question of concentration

Regardless of the fruit and its benefits, the amount of polyphenols consumed matters. A single blueberry a day cannot keep the doctor away. 😉 For therapeutic effects, the right concentration of polyphenols must be reached.

However, consuming large amounts of berries also means taking in a considerable amount of sugar (naturally present in fruits), which isn’t ideal for a low-carb, healthy diet.

That’s where Fruitomed comes in: concentrated polyphenols and flavor, with minimal sugar. The taste and the health benefits every day, without compromise.

References:

  1. Williams G, Hahn D, Stephens JH, et al. Cranberries for preventing urinary tract infections. Cochrane Database Syst Rev. 2023 Apr 17;4(4):CD001321. doi: 10.1002/14651858.CD001321.pub6. PMID: 37068952; PMCID: PMC10108827.

  2. Bell DR, Gochenaur K. Direct vasoactive and vasoprotective properties of anthocyanin-rich extracts. J Appl Physiol (1985). 2006 Apr;100(4):1164-70. doi: 10.1152/japplphysiol.00626.2005. PMID: 16339348.

  3. Fiore M, Terracina S, Ferraguti G. Brain Neurotrophins and Plant Polyphenols: A Powerful Connection. Molecules. 2025 Jun 19;30(12):2657. doi: 10.3390/molecules30122657. PMID: 40572619; PMCID: PMC12195725.

  4. Ma X, Jin Z, Rao Z, Zheng L. Health benefits of anthocyanins against age-related diseases. Front Nutr. 2025 Jun 20;12:1618072. doi: 10.3389/fnut.2025.1618072. PMID: 40626227; PMCID: PMC12231369.

  5. Meccariello R, D’Angelo S. Impact of Polyphenolic-Food on Longevity: An Elixir of Life. An Overview. Antioxidants (Basel). 2021 Mar 24;10(4):507. doi: 10.3390/antiox10040507. PMID: 33805092; PMCID: PMC8064059.