The $30 million gap in flavanol intake

A recent study has found that fewer than one in five individuals are achieving the recommended daily intake of flavanols, a potent antioxidant found in plums,blackberries, and cranberries. Despite the established benefits of consuming flavanols, most people are still not obtaining sufficient levels of these specific compounds.

According to the study,even among those who meet the traditional 'five-a-day' fruit and vegetable guideline, many are still not obtaining sufficient levels of flavanols. This highlights a significant deficiency in the consumption of this nutrient among millions of Britons.

The study suggests that dietary advice should specify which fruits and vegetables to eat, rather than simply recommending a general intake of five portions per day.

An echo of Sydney's 2024 institutional buy-up

The study's findings are not unique to the UK, as a similar trend has been observed in Australia. in 2024, a large-scale study revealed that most people in Sydney were not consuming enough flavanols, despite meeting the recommended daily intake of fruit and vegetables.

This echoes the current study's findings, highlighting the need for more targeted dietary advice.

The study's lead author, Dr. javier Ottaviani,emphasized that the protective effects against cardiovascular mortality are contingent on consuming enough flavanols.

What auditors flagged in the May filing

The study's data analysis revealed that the foods with the highest flavanol content per typical serving are plums (a 500g punnet providing about 450mg), cranberries (250g punnet, ~300mg), and blackberries (200g punnet, ~250mg).

Other significant sources include green tea (one 250ml cup, ~200mg), broad beans (80g, ~140mg), cherries (400g punnet, ~130mg), apples with skin (one medium, ~110mg), strawberries (200g punnet, ~90mg), blueberries (150g punnet, ~80mg), and pinto beans (40g dry , ~70mg).

The study's findings have significant implications for public health messaging,suggesting that a more nuanced approach may be necessary to maximize health benefits.