The Use of Natural and Derived Sources of Flavonoids and Antioxidants in Saudi Arabia

Several epidemiological evidences suggest that dietary factors, including increased intake of flavonoid-rich foods and beverages, may play a meaningful role in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk by improving vascular function and modulating inflammation. In recent decades, Saudi Arabia has rapidly developed economically and socially. This pace of change has affected the dietary intake pattern of the general population, pushing them towards increased consumption of energy dense and processed foods. Accumulated evidences on the different sources of flavonoids and antioxidants generally consumed by the Saudi population and their health effects are summarized in the present review.