Hesperidin is a natural compound found in citrus fruits, appreciated for its long history of use in nutrition and wellness. Known for its plant-based origins and gentle characteristics, it’s a versatile ingredient that can complement a balanced lifestyle. Thoughtfully included in a variety of formulations, Hesperidin reflects the power of nature’s simplicity and its role in supporting everyday wellbeing through mindful nutrition
What is hesperidin?
Hesperidin is a naturally occurring flavonoid compound found primarily in citrus fruits, particularly in peels and membranes. It belongs to a subclass of flavonoids called flavanones. Hesperidin is known for its various benefits including its potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Benefits of Hesperidin:
Antioxidant Activity
Hesperidin possesses strong antioxidant properties helping to neutralise free radicals in the body. By reducing oxidative stress, it can help protect cells from damage and support overall cellular health.
Anti-inflammatory effects
Hesperidin has been shown to exhibit anti-inflammatory properties by inhibiting inflammatory pathways in the body. Chronic inflammation is linked to various health conditions, including heart disease, diabetes and autoimmune disorders. By reducing inflammation, hesperidin may help support overall health and reduce the risk of these conditions.
Immune System Modulation
Hesperidin has a potential to modulate the immune system. It may help regulate immune responses, enhancing defence mechanisms against infections and offering immune support.
Digestive Health
Hesperidin can have effects on the digestive system. It may help reduce the inflammation in the gastrointestinal tract, promote gut health by supporting beneficial bacteria and alleviate symptoms of digestive orders such as IBS.
Skin Health
Hesperidin’s antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties may benefit skin health. It may help protect the skin from oxidative damage caused by UV radiation and environmental pollutants as well as reduce inflammation associated with skin conditions like acne and eczema.
But how does it help with coping with allergens such as Hay fever?
Hesperidin offers several mechanisms that may help alleviate symptoms associated with hay fever and allergies:
Stabilisation of Mast Cells
Mast cells are immune cells that play a central role in allergic reactions. When triggered by allergens like pollen or pet dander, mast cells release histamine and other inflammatory compounds leading to symptoms like sneezing, itching and nasal congestion. Hesperidin has been shown to stabilise cells, reducing their tendency to release histamine. By inhibiting histamine release, hesperidin can help alleviate allergic symptoms and provide relief from hay fever.
Anti-Inflammatory Effects
Allergic reactions involve an inflammatory response in the body. Hesperidin exhibits anti-inflammatory properties by suppressing inflammatory pathways and reducing the production of pro-inflammatory molecules. By dampening inflammation, hesperidin can help alleviate the swelling, irritation and discomfort associated with allergies and hay fever.
Antioxidant Activity
Allergic reactions can lead to increased oxidative stress in the body contributing to tissue damage and exacerbating allergic symptoms. Hesperidin’s antioxidant properties help neutralise free radicals and reduce oxidative stress, protecting cells from damage caused by allergens. By reducing oxidative stress, hesperidin can help mitigate the severity of allergic reactions and alleviate symptoms.
Modulation Of Immune System
Hesperidin may modulate the immune systems response to allergens, helping to regulate immune activity and prevent excessive allergic reactions. By promoting a balanced immune response, hesperidin can help reduce the severity of allergic symptoms and improve tolerance of allergens over time.
Respiratory Health
In addition to its specific effects on allergen reactions, Hesperidin may help alleviate inflammation in the airways, improve mucous membrane function and reduce symptoms such as coughing and wheezing.
Why the added Bromelain?
Adding bromelain to hesperidin can enhance its effectiveness for several reasons:
Synergistic action
Bromelain is a proteolytic enzyme found in pineapple stems and juice. It has anti-inflammatory properties and may help reduce swelling, inflammation and allergic reactions. When combined with hesperidin, bromelain can complement its anti-inflammatory effects, providing a synergistic action that enhances the overall efficacy of the product in alleviating hay fever symptoms.
Improved absorption
Bromelain has been shown to enhance the absorption of certain nutrients and compounds by breaking down proteins and promoting betting nutrient uptake in the digestive tract, by including bromelain in hesperidin, it may help improve the absorption and bioavailability of hesperidin, allowing for better utilisation of its effects of the body.
Enhanced anti-allergic effects
Bromelain is known for its potential to modulate immune response and reduce allergic reactions. By inhibiting the production of inflammatory molecules and regulating activity, bromelain can complement hesperidin’s anti-allergic effects, providing more comprehensive relief from hay fever symptoms.
Digestive Support
Bromelain is known for its digestive benefits, including the breakdown of proteins and supporting healthy digestion. Including bromelain in hesperidin may help promote digestive health and alleviate gastrointestinal discomfort that can sometimes accompany hay fever symptoms.
Hesperidin, often used alongside bromelain, is a citrus-derived compound appreciated for its plant-based origins and versatility. Together, these ingredients reflect nature’s thoughtful balance and can be a simple addition to a well-rounded wellness routine. Whether you’re exploring new ways to support mindful nutrition or looking to diversify your supplement choices, Hesperidin offers a natural option inspired by the harmony of nature.
Stacie Henson has been working at Metabolics for three years and has immersed herself in learning more about Metabolics products and nutrition generally.
She has completed basic nutrition courses and recently completed a Level 4 Nutrition Diploma.
