Subjective effects of flavonoid-containing nutritional supplements on health indicators

Background: Our aim was to study the effects of nutritional supplements rich in flavonoids on health, based on self-assessment of the subject.

Subjects and methods: 247 randomly selected subjects (56 men, 191 women; mean age: 49.4±15.6 years) consumed twice a day 1 portion of nutritional supplement for 2 months on average. The supplement was a fruit concentrate with jam consistency (GéSz Max® products) containing exclusively natural substances, manufactured without any additives and preservatives.

Results: The consumption of jam rich in flavonoids had favourable effect on all 23 health indices: general health status was better, the way subjects felt themselves, points typical for blood glucose rose, the blood glucose homeostasis improved, function of joints and muscles improved. Cardiovascular, digestive and allergic problems decreased, complaints related to bronchitis, sleeping problems decreased, dermatologic problems and depression improved, sexual activity increased, points related to smoking, alcohol consumption and coffee consumption increased. These changes were proved to be significant (p<0.05) with Wilcoxon-test. During the study side effects were not detected, the fruits used for the supplement have not known toxicity.

Conclusions: The consumption of the jam, as an antioxidant containing nutritional supplement, has favourable effects, it underpins the favourable effects of polyphenols. Our results showed that the general defensive properties improve due to the regular consumption of flavonoid-containing supplements. Polyphenols have clear health effects, and natural substances can be therapeutical tools due to their affectivity and safety. Consumption of fruits, vegetables and some drinks (tea and red wine) is suggested in our nutrition, because they are sources of polyphenols. Consumption of the studied nutritional supplements helps sustaining the health-conscious attitude.