POLYPHENOLS:
Berkem's source of inspiration

Polyphenols are compounds found throughout nature, particularly in the plant kingdom, and make up a large family of biological molecules. Notably, they play a protective role in plants.

These molecules are characterised by a common chemical structure, comprising at least one aromatic ring system attached to one or several hydroxyl groups (OH function). This confers multiple properties upon the polyphenols, leading to a number of health benefits. It is their antioxidative ability in particular that makes these components stand out: they are the most powerful natural antioxidants in the plant world.

Polyphenols are naturally present throughout the plant, from the root to the leaves, flowers and fruits. Because humans are not capable of synthesising them, they must come from our diets. They can be found in plant-based food sources with firmly-established reputations, such as tea, coffee, wine and cocoa.

Polyphenols are separated into a number of classes according to the structure of their carbon skeleton.

Free radicals are a type of chemical that are constantly generated by the organism or that form in response to threats arising from our environment. In excess, they accelerate cellular ageing and are the cause of oxidative stress. Polyphenols are capable of trapping these free radicals, thus limiting the damage incurred.

This ability is what gives polyphenols their antioxidative properties, their health benefits and their anti-ageing effect (reducing cutaneous and cellular ageing). These compounds are also recognised for their role in combating certain pathologies, such as cardiovascular and neurodegenerative diseases, cancers, osteoporosis and diabetes.