High Intake of Flavonoids Linked To Better Blood Sugar Health

Flavonoids are compounds rich in antioxidants that are found naturally in many fruits and vegetables. The main dietary sources of flavonoids include tea, citrus fruit, citrus fruit juices, berries, red wine, apples, and legumes. A new study suggests that high intake of flavonoid-rich foods may help reduce the risk of diabetes.

Participants in the study included 54,787 adults who took part in the Danish Diet, Cancer, and Health study. Food frequency questionnaires were used to determine flavonoid intake. Participants were followed for an average of 23 years and all incidences of diabetes were recorded.

Participants with the highest flavonoid intake (approximately 1 gram per day) were found to have a 19% lower risk of diabetes compared to those with the lowest intake. They also had lower body fat. Four flavonoid subclasses were significantly associated with a lower diabetes risk; flavanols, flavanol monomers, flavanol oligo + polymers, and anthocyanins.

The study was conducted by researchers from the University of Western Australia and the University of Southern Denmark. It was published online ahead of print on September 6, 2021 in The Journal of Nutrition.