Nasunin (also known as delphinidin-3-(coumaroylrutinoside)-5-glucoside) is a potent antioxidant and free radical scavenger that has been shown to protect cell membranes from damage. It has also been found to protect the lipids (fats) in brain cell membranes. Cell membranes are almost entirely composed of lipids and are responsible for protecting the cell from free radicals and letting nutrients in and wastes out
Cell membranes also are responsible for receiving instructions from messenger molecules that tell the cell which activities it should perform.
The free radical fighting properties of nasunin are particularly important for the health of brain tissue and it may help to slow the development of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
In addition, nasunin also serves as an iron chelator to prevent iron accumulation in the body, which if unregulated, can spur free radical production. In regulating this, nasunin also protects blood cholesterol from peroxidation and prevents cellular damage that can lead to cancer and heart disease. Plus it reduces the accumulation of iron in the joints, which is thought to be a primary cause of rheumatoid arthritis.
Natural food sources of nasunin in alphabetical order
Related subjects
- A-Z of nutrients
- Alzheimer’s disease
- Bone and joint disorders
- Cancer
- Heart disorders
- Parkinson’s disease