How do flavonoids reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease?
Eating foods and drinks that are rich in flavonoids can benefit the cardiovascular system in a number of ways. Studies have shown that drinking wine or juices rich in flavonoids helps to improve the function of your blood vessels (Bibliography Ref: 66, 67, 68). Scientists have also shown that flavonoids can reduce blood stickiness in both laboratory tests (Bibliography Ref: 69) and in humans (Bibliography Ref: 70, 71). This means reducing the chance of forming small blood clots which can injure the blood vessel lining and stops them working. As well as stop blood vessels working properly, small blood clots release harmful chemicals that can increase the formation of bad cholesterol (also known as oxidised low density lipoprotein), which sticks to the blood vessel walls. Eventually this can lead to a narrowing of the arteries, which will prevent the blood flowing around the body efficiently and could lead to increased blood pressure. What scientific evidence is there? Laboratory tests h
