anthocyanidin, anthocyanadins, anthocyanin, celphinidin, cyanidin, delphinidin, malvidin, pelargonidin, peonidin, petunidin
Proanthocyanidins are chemical compounds. They give the fruit or flowers of many plants their red, blue, or purple colors. They were first studied for their importance as plant pigments. But these compounds may help prevent cancer.
Proanthocyanidins are in a group of compounds called polyphenols. These belong to a subclass called flavonoids.
Food sources of proanthocyanidins include:
Red grapes
Black grapes
Grape seeds
Red wine
Bilberries
Cranberries
Strawberries
Blueberries
Red cabbage
Apple peel
Pine bark
Leaves of the bilberry bush
Birch
Ginkgo biloba
Research is being done to look at the health benefits of these compounds. It’s known that a diet with a lot of vegetables and fruits reduces the risk for many types of cancer. It also lowers the risk of other age-related problems.
Please note that this section reports on claims that have not yet been substantiated through studies.
Proanthocyanidins may protect the heart and cardiovascular system. They may work as antioxidants and block nitrosamines from forming. They may protect healthy cells from their effects. They work with vitamin C to lower the risk of breast cancer. They reduce risk of blood clots. This may lower the risk of a heart attack.
There is no set dose for proanthocyanidins.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should talk to their healthcare providers before taking any supplements.
There are no known side effects linked with proanthocyanidins. There are no known food or medicine interactions.
For Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts members
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts is a leading provider of quality health insurance for residents of Massachusetts. Our main goal is to make health care cost-effective by offering health insurance solutions for individuals, families, and large and small businesses at affordable rates.
Our Vision — Making Quality Health Care AffordableOur Promise — To Always Put Our Members First
To learn more about our Massachusetts health plans, please visit our Plans & Products page, where you can compare Massachusetts health insurance plans, buy health plans online, and get Mass health insurance quotes.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Massachusetts also offers insurance, pharmacy coverage, and Medicare Plans for seniors; life and disability insurance through Indigo Insurance Services (a wholly owned subsidiary); and insurance for individuals aged 18-26 years. Learn more about our other insurance plans and Medicare plans, or contact a sales representative today.