Leucoanthocyanidins

PhytochemicalFlavonoidBest with a meal

What is it

Leucoanthocyanidins (also called flavan-3,4-diols) are colorless precursors to anthocyanin pigments, found in many plant tissues; they spontaneously polymerize to proanthocyanidins on hydrolysis.

Evidence for 1 use

AI-assisted evidence assessment — talk to your doctor before relying on any single supplement.

Antioxidant precursor

Limited Evidence

Contributes to plant polyphenol antioxidant pool; not studied in isolation.

How it works

Leucoanthocyanidins serve as biosynthetic intermediates between flavan-3-ols (catechins) and anthocyanins. In supplements they appear as part of broader proanthocyanidin/grape seed extract products and contribute antioxidant activity. No isolated leucoanthocyanidin clinical trials exist.

Dosage

No RDA. Not sold individually; part of broader proanthocyanidin blends.

When and how to take it

WHEN: With meals. HOW: Take as part of broader polyphenol products.

1 commercial form

Compare the main delivery options and what they’re best suited for.

Component of grape seed and pine bark extracts

Not sold separately.

Polymerizes to proanthocyanidins.

Safety

Safe at culinary and supplement levels as part of fruit and grape extracts.

Who should be cautious

Caution with anticoagulants when taking concentrated proanthocyanidin extracts.

Interactions

No significant interactions reported for isolated compound. Proanthocyanidin extracts may have mild antiplatelet effects.

Food sources

Grapes, apples, berries

Amount
1 cup
%DV
—

Frequently asked questions

Are leucoanthocyanidins the same as anthocyanins?⌄

No, they are colorless precursors that can be converted to colored anthocyanins.

References

Leucoanthocyanidins on Wikidata — Wikidata link

Leucoanthocyanidins (ChEBI:60835) — ChEBI link

Leucoanthocyanidins on NIH DSLD (US supplement label database) — NIH Dietary Supplement Label Database link

Research on Leucoanthocyanidins (PubMed search) — PubMed link

Track Leucoanthocyanidins with Pilora

Set up dose reminders, check interactions, and join the community in the Pilora iPhone app.

Coming to App Store
Evidence-based·How we grade evidence

Disclaimer: These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This page is educational, not a substitute for personalized medical advice. Evidence grades are AI-assisted assessments — talk to your doctor before starting any new supplement, especially if you’re pregnant, breastfeeding, on medications, or managing a chronic condition.