One group of phytochemicals in plants, the polyphenols, have been shown to benefit health in a number of ways. The antimicrobial effects of polyphenols are widely reported and many polyphenols in plants are able to inhibit the growth of a variety of bacteria via direct contact. Many studies use polyphenols to inhibit the growth of bacteria on surfaces and for this they are highly effective. However, humans tend to eat polyphenols and so their antimicrobial effects may not be evident following consumption and metabolism. However, this does not mean that polyphenols in plants should be disregarded because one way that contact between polyphenols and bacteria can benefit health is during transit of the polyphenols through the mouth. Here there is a definite contact between the polyphenols and the bacteria and the antimicrobial effects can be of benefit for example in the prevention of dental caries. This may explain the benefits of drinking tea on gum and tooth health and its inhibitory effects on tooth decay.
Eat Well, Stay Healthy, Protect Yourself
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