

· By Joseph Welstead
Plant Polyphenols: What to Eat in April for Optimal Health
What to eat in April? Focus on Plant Polyphenols
We often talk of antioxidants. Perhaps what we should be talking about is actually Polyphenols. These plant-based compounds, including phenolenic acids, flavonoids and resveratrol, have been the focus of hundreds of clinical studies for their many, many benefits on the human body and brain. Polyphenols will help clear oxidative stress from the brain and body (hence the term antioxidant), they will improve our cardiovascular health, and generally improve our expected lifespan.Why focus on Polyphenols in April?
Spring in the UK welcomes a wave of locally produced plants bursting with these life-enhancing chemicals. Now's the time to make the most of it.Here are three areas to focus on this month to significantly boost your intake of polyphenols.
1. Herbs and Microgreens
This is where our beautiful homeland really delivers. With no other change to your diet, topping your meals with freshly cropped, locally sourced herbs and microgreens (as local as your windowsill herb tray, perhaps?) could be the most important single step you can take towards a healthier, longer life. A few things to look out for, in season right now in April:- Chives
- Dill
- Sorrel
- Watercress
- Wild nettle
- Wild garlic
- Spinach
- Spring onions
- Spearmint (year round, indoors)
2. Spices and Chilies
Like it hot? Good. Curry, turmeric, cloves, star anise, celery seeds, oregano (even dried), rosemary and thyme will all pack a punch of flavour while delivering heavy doses of antioxidant polyphenols. Go big on flavour, go big on life!3. Coffee and Cacao
This section should make you happy. High quality dark chocolate, raw cacao, and even coffee and black/green tea are all excellent sources of polyphenols. Need we say more?