A polyphenol is a natural compound found in plants. They provide antioxidant protection to the plant and also defend against ultraviolet damage. They are typically responsible for the bright colours of plants or spices.

Polyphenols are found in all plants to some degree, although there are particularly large quantities in herbs and spices such as turmeric, berries and cherries, fruits and vegetables, dark chocolate, tea and coffee beans.

Research has shown that long term consumption of diets rich in plant polyphenols, provides protection against the development of cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, osteoporosis and neurodegenerative diseases.

Exercising at high intensities, for extended periods of time can result in muscle damage. This muscle damage is characterized by a reduction in your ability to produce force, muscle soreness and perhaps even reduced range of motion. This is thought to be the result of a significant increase in inflammation and oxidative stress within the muscle itself. 

Research has shown that the consumption of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory rich foods and fluids following intense bouts of exercise can reduce muscle damage, muscle soreness and accelerate the recovery process. 

That said, reducing muscle damage and soreness is only one element of the recovery process, you must also consider refueling, repairing, rehydrating, resting and relaxing. The so-called 5 R’s of optimal recovery. 

Thankfully B.Fresh have formulated Recovery to meet 4 of those recovery requirements, with polyphenol rich fruits to reduce muscle soreness and refuel, the juice to rehydrate and cherries which have been linked with improved sleep quality. It’s the perfect combination to meet your recovery needs.

Research has shown that the consumption of 1000 mg of polyphenols after intense exercise can reduce muscle soreness by 29% and improve performance in the next workout by 13% compared to consuming water alone. B.Fresh Recovery contains 1350 mg of natural polyphenols from various sources.

Research has also shown that the consumption of around 300 mg of polyphenols 1 - 2 hours prior to competition might improve exercise capacity and performance, particularly during endurance and repeated-sprint events through improvements in cardiovascular function. 

Certain polyphenols can inhibit the absorption of some minerals, for instance tannins in tea and coffee will impair the absorption of iron. So if you have a known mineral deficiency and have to supplement to correct that deficiency then ensure you consume the supplement well away from any polyphenol rich food or drink.