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Flavonoids are found in a wide range of foods and supplementation is usually not required by individuals eating a healthy diet. Bioflavonoids are often called "semi-essential" nutrients because they are an important part of our regular nutritional needs and support health as anti-inflammatory, antihistaminic and antiviral agents. They possess antioxidant properties that help fight poor health and aging. Flavonoids are referred to as "biological response modifiers" because they help to modify the body's reaction to allergens, viruses and carcinogens.
Flavonoids can be divided into categories, but how to divide them is not universally agreed upon. One system breaks them into isoflavones, anthocyanidins, flavans, flavonols, flavones and flavanones. Some of the best-known flavonoids, such as genistein in soy and quercetin in onions, could be considered subcategories.
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