Polyphenols are a large family of naturally occurring organic compounds characterized by multiples of phenol units. They are abundant in plants and structurally diverse. Polyphenols include flavonoids, tannic acid, and ellagitannin. Polyphenols are available in many drinks and foods.
Human studies suggest that polyphenol (PP)-rich foods and beverages acutely benefit cardiovascular function and cognitive performance. The effects of PPs on brain function may be in part due to their vasodilatory effect from increasing endogenous nitric oxide (NO) production. Evidence of concurrent modulation of cerebral blood flow (CBF) and mood states by PPs is scant.
Recently I read an article published in the HerbalGram of the American Botanical Council. I always recommend naturopathic physicians and herbalists to join the ABC.
There were reported changes as anger in those patients drinking blueberry and apple drinks. I found the study to be confusing and conflicting. I would like to see better clarity regarding drinks with polyphenol content for the future.
So right now we need need more information regarding polyphenols for cognitive function
Jackson PA, Wightman EL, Veasey R, et al. A randomized, crossover study of the acute cognitive and cerebral blood flow effects of phenolic, nitrate, and botanical beverages in young, healthy humans. Nutrients. July 28, 2020;12(8):2254. doi: 10.3390/nu12082254.
*This study was funded by PepsiCo (Purchase, New York [NY], US). Two authors work for Pepsi Nutritional Sciences Global R&D, stated as a potential conflict of interest that did not affect results.