What are Activated Phenolics?
Phenolic compounds are a diverse and widespread group of plant-based secondary metabolites, consisting of an aromatic ring with at least one hydroxyl substituent. They occur naturally in many plants as a defense mechanism against stressors like ultraviolet radiation and pathogens. However, in their basic form, many phenolics have low bioavailability, meaning the body cannot efficiently absorb and utilize them.
Activated phenolics are a more potent and bioavailable form of these compounds, often extracted and processed to enhance their efficacy. The "activation" process, such as the patented, water-based method used to extract phenolics from apples, ensures a higher concentration and bioavailability, allowing the body to absorb up to 90% of the active ingredients. This creates a superior class of antioxidants that work synergistically with the body's biological systems. The high stability of activated phenolics also means they are effective at neutralizing free radicals without becoming reactive themselves.
Potent Antioxidant Protection
One of the most significant benefits of activated phenolics is their potent antioxidant activity. The overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) leads to oxidative stress, which can damage cells and contribute to chronic diseases such as cancer, neurodegenerative disorders, and cardiovascular disease. Activated phenolics act as effective radical scavengers by donating hydrogen atoms and electrons to neutralize these free radicals, thereby protecting cells from damage.
Anti-inflammatory Effects
Chronic inflammation is an important factor in the pathophysiology of age-related infirmities and many diseases. Activated phenolics help manage this process by suppressing the body's inflammatory responses. They do this by inhibiting pro-inflammatory enzymes and signaling pathways, such as cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2) and nuclear factor kappa B (NF-κB). Clinical and experimental studies have demonstrated that dietary phenolics can decrease inflammatory markers and modulate the expression of pro-inflammatory genes.
List of Anti-inflammatory Actions:
- Inhibiting key enzymes: Activated phenolics can decrease the activity of iNOS and COX-2, which are enzymes that produce inflammatory compounds.
- Reducing inflammatory markers: They help lower the levels of pro-inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6.
- Modulating signaling pathways: Phenolics interfere with inflammatory signaling, affecting pathways like NF-κB that are central to the body's inflammatory cascade.
Cardiovascular Health
Evidence from extensive research points to the cardioprotective benefits of phenolic compounds. By improving oxidative stress, inflammation, and endothelial dysfunction, activated phenolics can reduce several risk factors for cardiovascular disease (CVD). Key mechanisms include:
- Vasodilation: They enhance the release of nitric oxide (NO) from endothelial cells, which helps relax blood vessels and improves circulation.
- Reduced lipid peroxidation: Phenolics inhibit the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins (LDL), a key event in the development of atherosclerosis.
- Improved vascular function: They activate endogenous antioxidant defenses, leading to improved endothelial function.
Supporting Gut Microbiota and Digestive Health
Dietary phenolic compounds interact significantly with the intestinal microbiome, and this relationship is crucial for their biological activity. The gut microbiota metabolizes complex and unabsorbed phenolics into smaller, more bioavailable metabolites. These metabolites can then exert their beneficial effects throughout the body. For example, some phenolics can selectively enhance the growth of beneficial probiotic bacteria like Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium, while inhibiting pathogenic bacteria. This regulation helps maintain intestinal barrier integrity and improves overall gut health, which has far-reaching effects on immunity and metabolism.
Neuroprotective Benefits
Oxidative stress, inflammation, and impaired autophagy are key pathogenetic factors for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. The antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties of activated phenolics make them potential agents for preventing and attenuating these conditions. Furthermore, some phenolic metabolites can mediate the gut-microbe-brain axis, a communication system between the gut and the brain, which is attracting increasing attention for its role in brain homeostasis.
Comparison: Standard vs. Activated Phenolics
To understand the advantage of activated phenolics, it is helpful to compare them to their standard form found in regular plant sources.
| Feature | Standard Phenolics (e.g., from typical fruits) | Activated Phenolics (e.g., from processed apples) |
|---|---|---|
| Bioavailability | Low absorption rate, as they are often bound to complex sugars or fibers. | Up to 90% absorption due to patented, water-based extraction and processing. |
| Potency | Activity can be limited and highly dependent on gut metabolism. | Superior antioxidant power due to enhanced bioavailability and stability. |
| Stability | Some compounds are susceptible to degradation by heat or during digestion. | Higher stability, resisting pro-oxidation and remaining active longer in the body. |
| Free Radical Scavenging | Good, but effectiveness can be inconsistent due to low absorption. | Excellent, capable of neutralizing a broader range of free radicals. |
| Effect on Inflammation | Can provide anti-inflammatory benefits, but effects are less pronounced. | Highly effective at suppressing inflammatory pathways due to systemic availability. |
How to Incorporate Activated Phenolics
Since activated phenolics are highly concentrated and bioavailable, they are most commonly available in supplement form, such as powders or tablets. These can be mixed with water or other beverages. Some foods, like certain fruits or vegetables processed with specific techniques (e.g., fresh-cut methods that induce a stress response), may contain higher levels of these compounds. However, supplements offer a more reliable and concentrated dose to achieve the targeted health benefits. It is important to always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement regimen.
Conclusion
The extensive research on phenolic compounds, particularly in their highly bioavailable, activated form, underscores their significant health-promoting potential. From providing a more potent antioxidant defense to mitigating chronic inflammation and supporting cardiovascular, gut, and brain health, activated phenolics offer a comprehensive approach to combating age-related and chronic diseases. By enhancing the body's natural defenses and biological systems, these powerful phytonutrients represent a significant advancement in preventative health and wellness.
