Polyphenols: Gut’s New Best Friend?

If you’ve ever wished for a magical ingredient that could boost your gut health, improve your overall well-being, and make your taste buds dance, you’re in luck! Polyphenols are a diverse group of compounds found in many of your favorite foods. These little powerhouses are not just tasty but also packed with health benefits, especially for the gut.

I get my polyphenole intake from cold pressed olive oil every day. I prefer to drink it but you can drizzle your daily dose on salads or soups. Ther aren't all that many polyphenole and lab tested drinking oils out there. I did almost a year long research on this, have tested several brands and swear by this one here by Blueprint (by Bryan Johnson). It's not only the safest option but also incredibly affordable compared to other high polyphenole brands out there.

What Are Polyphenols, Anyway?

Polyphenols are the superheroes of the plant world. They’re naturally occurring compounds found in a variety of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and spices. They have impressive antioxidant properties, which means they help fight off those pesky free radicals that cause damage to our cells. But their benefits don’t stop there; they also play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy gut.

Polyphenols and Your Gut

Think of polyphenols as gut-loving friends that help maintain a balanced and happy digestive system. They work in several fantastic ways:

1. Boosting Gut Microbiota: Polyphenols act as prebiotics, providing nourishment for your beneficial gut bacteria. These friendly microbes thrive on polyphenols, which helps them flourish and keep your gut flora balanced.

2. Reducing Inflammation: Chronic inflammation in the gut can lead to various digestive issues. Polyphenols have powerful anti-inflammatory properties that help soothe inflammation and promote a healthy gut lining. Many cancer patients introduce EVOO high in polyphenoles to their diet during their medical treatment and make drinking EVOO a habit after their recovery.

3. Enhancing Digestive Health: Polyphenols support the production of short-chain fatty acids, which are essential for maintaining a healthy gut barrier and reducing gut permeability. This means your digestive system can work more efficiently and effectively.

Polyphenol-Rich Foods to Add to Your Plate

Ready to indulge in some delicious, gut-friendly foods? Here are some top picks that are brimming with polyphenols:

Berries: Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are not only sweet but also packed with polyphenols. They’re great for snacking or adding to smoothies and yogurt.

Dark Chocolate: Yes, you read that right! Dark chocolate with 80% cocoa content (or higher) is a fantastic source of polyphenols. But organic cocoa powder is even better! Get your 7.5% flavanols organic cocoa powder at Blueprint.

Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts are crunchy, satisfying, and polyphenol-rich. They make a great addition to salads or as a midday snack. Make sure your nuts are raw rather than roasted to get the most benefit out of them.

Spices: Turmeric, cinnamon, and cloves are not just for flavoring your dishes—they’re also loaded with polyphenols. Sprinkle them on your meals for an extra health boost. Some EVOO brands started introducing EVOO infused with extra polyphenols extracted from turmeric and they taste good!

Green Tea: Sip on some green tea to enjoy a polyphenol-packed drink that also provides a calming effect. It’s a great alternative to sugary beverages.

EVOO (Extra Virgin Olive Oil): The Polyphenol Powerhouse

One of the standout stars in the polyphenol world is extra virgin olive oil (EVOO). This liquid gold is not only a delicious addition to your kitchen but also a health-boosting superstar. Here’s why EVOO deserves a special place in your diet:

1. Rich in Polyphenols: EVOO is particularly high in a type of polyphenol called oleocanthal, which has potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. This helps protect your gut lining and supports overall digestive health. Some EVOO brands offer a special reserve collection with measured polyphenol counts. Remember that any EVOO containing less than 220 mg/kg polyphenol count is just garnish. To get the health benefits of EVOO rich in polyphenols, opt for a high count.

2. Supports Gut Microbiota: The polyphenols in EVOO can promote the growth of beneficial gut bacteria while inhibiting harmful ones, contributing to a balanced gut microbiome.

3. Versatile and Delicious: EVOO is incredibly versatile. Drizzle it over salads, use it for cooking, or even enjoy it as a dip with whole-grain bread. Its rich peppery flavor and health benefits make it a fantastic addition to any meal. It isn't coincidence that the Mediterranean diet is considered one of the healthiest and nonnas live forever!

TL;DR: Eat, Enjoy, and Thrive!

Incorporating polyphenol-rich foods into your diet is a tasty and effective way to support your gut health and overall well-being. From the juicy sweetness of berries to the peppery goodness of EVOO, these foods not only delight your taste buds but also contribute to a healthier, happier gut.

So do not be afraid to indulge in the delicious treats and powder mixes offered by the Blueprint stack to let the nutrients work their magic! Your gut will thank you.