Citrus Bioflavonoid Extract Blend
Also known as: Citrus bioflavonoid extract, Citrus flavonoids, Bioflavonoids, Hesperidin, Naringenin, Eriocitrin, Diosmin, Citrus Bioflavonoids
Overview
Citrus bioflavonoids are a class of naturally occurring flavonoids found in citrus fruits like oranges, lemons, and grapefruits. These compounds are known for their antioxidant and health-promoting properties. They are used in dietary supplements to support immune function, respiratory health, cognitive function, vascular integrity, and joint health. Citrus bioflavonoids are potent antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties and the ability to activate antiviral pathways. They are often standardized in supplements to ensure consistent bioflavonoid content. Research on citrus bioflavonoids is substantial, with numerous preclinical and clinical studies, including systematic reviews and meta-analyses. However, more extensive randomized controlled trials are needed to establish precise conclusions on some health benefits. These compounds also enhance the absorption of vitamin C.
Benefits
Citrus bioflavonoids offer several evidence-based benefits. They significantly reduce total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and VLDL while increasing HDL levels, as supported by meta-analyses. Supplementation with citrus flavonoids has been shown to improve flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD), indicating enhanced endothelial function. Furthermore, citrus flavonoids can activate antiviral pathways by upregulating the expression of interferon regulatory factor 7 (IRF7) and activating the interferon-stimulated response element (ISRE). They also support balanced immune cell activity and respiratory health, and they have a synergistic function with vitamin C for enhanced immune support. Improvements in endothelial function have been observed in studies with durations ranging from several weeks to a few months.
How it works
Citrus bioflavonoids act through multiple mechanisms. They influence biochemical targets involved in lipogenesis and beta-oxidation, contributing to their lipid-lowering effects. They activate antiviral pathways by upregulating IRF7 and activating the ISRE. Additionally, they possess anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supporting various health benefits. These bioflavonoids interact with the cardiovascular system by improving lipid profiles and endothelial function. They also interact with the immune system by supporting balanced immune cell activity and enhancing antiviral responses. Absorption is generally enhanced when consumed with vitamin C, with which they synergize.
Side effects
Citrus bioflavonoids are generally considered safe when consumed in recommended doses. There is limited data on common side effects, but they are typically well-tolerated. No significant uncommon or rare side effects have been consistently reported in the literature. Potential interactions with medications affecting lipid metabolism or blood pressure should be considered, but specific interactions are not well-documented. There are no clear contraindications, but individuals with specific health conditions or taking certain medications should consult a healthcare provider. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should also seek medical advice before using citrus bioflavonoid supplements due to the lack of specific studies in these populations. More extensive long-term safety studies are needed.
Dosage
The minimum effective dose for cardiovascular benefits appears to be around 200 mg/day of citrus flavonoids, based on dose-response meta-analysis. Optimal dosages range from 200 mg to 560 mg per day, depending on the specific health outcome being targeted. There is no established maximum safe dose, but doses above 560 mg/day have not been extensively studied. Timing of supplementation does not appear to be critical, but consistency in daily intake is recommended. Standardized extracts ensuring consistent bioflavonoid content are recommended. Absorption can be enhanced when consumed with vitamin C, which acts as a synergistic cofactor.
FAQs
Are citrus bioflavonoids safe?
Citrus bioflavonoids are generally safe, but long-term safety and interactions with medications need further study. Consult a healthcare provider if you have underlying health conditions.
When should I take citrus bioflavonoids?
Consistent daily intake is recommended, but specific timing is not critical. You can take them with or without food, but consider taking them with Vitamin C.
What results can I expect?
Improvements in lipid profiles, endothelial function, and immune support can be expected within several weeks to months of consistent supplementation. Results may vary.
Can citrus bioflavonoids replace medical treatment?
While citrus bioflavonoids have various health benefits, they should not be used as a replacement for medical treatment without consulting a healthcare provider.
Research Sources
- https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/pharmacology/articles/10.3389/fphar.2022.822678/full – This systematic review and meta-analysis of 26 studies, including preclinical and clinical trials, found that citrus products significantly reduced total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and VLDL, while increasing HDL levels. The study highlights the potential of citrus bioflavonoids in improving lipid profiles, though it notes high heterogeneity among the included studies, resulting in a critically low to moderate risk of bias.
- https://www.sciopen.com/article/10.31665/JFB.2019.8207 – This analytical study examined 10 commercially available citrus bioflavonoid supplements and found significant variability in bioflavonoid content and DPP-4 inhibitory potential among different supplements. The findings emphasize the need for standardization in supplement formulation to ensure consistent quality and efficacy. This study is limited to the analysis of commercial supplements.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35897920/ – This study likely provides additional context or data related to citrus bioflavonoids. Further information would be needed to provide a more detailed summary of its key findings and limitations. The title and abstract of the study would be helpful in providing a more comprehensive summary.
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/38561995/ – This systematic review and dose-response meta-analysis, including 8 RCTs with 596 participants, found that citrus flavonoids supplementation significantly improved flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) by 2.75%. The study indicates a clear dose-response relationship, suggesting that higher doses of citrus flavonoids may lead to greater improvements in endothelial function. However, the study also notes high heterogeneity among the included studies.
- https://nutraceuticalbusinessreview.com/sourcing-citrus-bioflavonoids-for-dietary-supplements-functional-foods-and-beverages--138092 – This article discusses the sourcing of citrus bioflavonoids for dietary supplements, functional foods, and beverages. It highlights the importance of quality and standardization in citrus bioflavonoid extracts to ensure consistent health benefits. The article provides insights into the nutraceutical industry's perspective on citrus bioflavonoids.
