Home :: Vitamin P (Bioflavonoids)

Vitamin P (Bioflavonoids)- Benefits, Deficiency Symptoms And Food Sources

Other names :: Bioflavonoids

Bioflavonoids are not true vitamins in the strictest sense, they are sometimes referred to as vitamin P. Bioflavonoids are essential for the absorption of vitamin C, and the two should be taken together. The term bioflavonoids refers to many different ingredients and include hesperin, hesperidin, eriodictyol, quercetin, quercertrin, rutin etc. The human body cannot produce bioflavonoids, so they must be supplied in the diet.

Actions and benefits of vitamin P

• Blood vessel wall and capillary maintenance.
• Prevents accumulation of atherosclerotic plaque.
• Connective tissue.
• May lower cholesterol levels.
• Strengthens capillary walls, anti-coagulant for capillaries, protects vitamin C.
• A daily intake of Vitamin C and Bioflavonoids may make you less susceptible to cold sores.

Recommended dosage of vitamin P

No dosage has been determined of Vitamin P but 500 mg per day is indicated for supplementation.

Signs of Overdose:

• Diarrhea.

Deficiency symptoms of Vitamin P

• Bruising.
• Varicose veins.

When more may be required

If you are stressed out, or are on drugs such as aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatories, oral contraceptives, diuretics or oestrogens, then the amount of bioflavanoids (vitamin P) may need to be increased.

Best food sources of vitamin P

Apricots, cherries, paprika, grapefruit, lemons. Fresh fruits and vegetables, especially citrus, green peppers, grapes, strawberries, black currants, prunes.

How to use vitamin P

Available as:

Liquid: the best form due to its high bio availability and fast absorption. Always choose liquid as your first choice when supplementing your diet.

Tablets: available

Storage:

Heat and/or moisture may alter the vitamin. Refrigeration is recommended.