Antioxidants play a vital role in protecting the human body from the damaging effects of free radicals. Free radicals are unstable atoms that can damage cells within the body and cause illness and aging. The most well known antioxidants are Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Beta-Carotene. They are known as direct antioxidants, as they act directly by terminating chain reactions initiated by free radicals. The FDA recognizes Vitamin C, Vitamin E, and Beta-Carotene as the only types of antioxidants. But current research shows there may be other types of beneficial antioxidants found abundantly in plants called polyphenols. Polyphenols can be grouped as phenolic acids, flavonoids, or non-flavonoids. Flavonoids are water-soluble compounds, so these antioxidants are readily accessible in brewed beverages and are immediately available for the body to absorb. Ongoing studies of flavonoids are showing the benefits these compounds possess such as, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-inflammatory effects, to name just a few. Flavonoids are found in high amounts in dandelions roots, carob, and the maya nut, which are all ingredients found in our Lions Brew!