What compounds, visible indicators of antioxidant content, are responsible for the dark pigmentation of black beans?
Answer
Flavonoids, specifically including anthocyanins.
The deep, dark color characteristic of black beans is directly linked to the presence of potent protective phytochemicals known as antioxidants. Among these, the class of compounds called flavonoids is paramount. More specifically, anthocyanins are the particular type of flavonoid responsible for imparting the dark, purplish-black pigmentation observed in the bean hulls. These compounds are powerful agents in neutralizing harmful free radicals within the body, thereby mitigating oxidative stress, which is a key driver in cellular damage and chronic disease development.
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