From the Guidelines
Ferulic acid is a potent antioxidant that offers several benefits, including protecting against cell damage, reducing inflammation, and improving skin health 1. The benefits of ferulic acid can be attributed to its ability to inhibit the formation of advanced glycation end-products (AGEs), which are harmful compounds that can accumulate in the body and contribute to various diseases.
Key Benefits of Ferulic Acid
- Anti-glycative properties: Ferulic acid has been shown to exhibit anti-glycative properties, which can help reduce the formation of AGEs in the body 1.
- Antioxidant activity: Ferulic acid has potent antioxidant activity, which can help protect against cell damage and reduce inflammation 1.
- Skin health benefits: Ferulic acid may also have benefits for skin health, including improving skin elasticity and reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles.
Recommended Intake and Precautions
It is recommended to consume 50-500 mg of ferulic acid per day, either through dietary sources such as fermented foods, or as a supplement 1. However, it is essential to consult with a healthcare professional before taking ferulic acid supplements, especially if you are taking medications such as blood thinners, as it may interact with them. Additionally, ferulic acid may be combined with other antioxidants like vitamins C and E to enhance its benefits. Pregnant or breastfeeding women should exercise caution and consult their healthcare provider before using ferulic acid supplements.
Food Sources and Culinary Practices
Ferulic acid can be found in various food sources, including fermented foods, and can also be added to foods during cooking to reduce AGE formation 1. Culinary practices such as using lower cooking temperatures, steaming, stewing, and poaching, and adding acids like vinegar or lemon juice to food can also help reduce AGE levels.
From the Research
Benefits of Ferulic Acid
The benefits of ferulic acid can be summarized as follows:
- Antioxidant potential: Ferulic acid has been shown to have potent antioxidant properties, which can help protect against cell damage and oxidative stress 2, 3, 4, 5, 6.
- Anti-inflammatory effects: Ferulic acid has been found to have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disease, and diabetes 3, 4, 6.
- Protection against age-related diseases: Ferulic acid has been proposed as a potential therapeutic agent for the treatment of age-related diseases such as neurodegenerative disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer 4.
- Skin protection: Ferulic acid has been shown to have a protective role in skin care, inhibiting melanogenesis, enhancing angiogenesis, and accelerating wound healing 5.
- Anti-hypertensive effects: Ferulic acid has been found to have anti-hypertensive effects, attenuating oxidative stress and improving endothelial function 6.
- Other benefits: Ferulic acid has also been found to have antimicrobial, anticancer, and antidiabetic effects, and has been widely used in the pharmaceutical, food, and cosmetics industry 5.