Last verified: 24 days ago
Phloretin
Also known as: dihydrochalcone, phloretin flavonoid, apple polyphenol, phloretin-2'-O-glucuronide
Evidence under review. — Not yet rated
Apple-derived polyphenol with early blood sugar and anti-inflammatory effects; most evidence is pre-clinical.
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What it does
Phloretin is a natural polyphenol found primarily in apples and apple-derived products. In human studies, apple extracts rich in phloretin and related compounds modestly slowed early-phase blood...
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Evidence quality
Evidence base hasn't been formally rated yet. See research below.
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Clinical dose
No established dose
What the Science Says
Phloretin is a natural polyphenol found primarily in apples and apple-derived products. In human studies, apple extracts rich in phloretin and related compounds modestly slowed early-phase blood sugar spikes after high-carbohydrate meals by inhibiting intestinal glucose transporters. A small clinical trial also found that a topical gel containing phloretin reduced gum inflammation in orthodontic patients. Most other effects — including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and kidney-protective actions — come from animal or lab studies only.
What It Doesn't Do
Not proven to treat diabetes or replace diabetes medication. No human evidence it fights cancer. No proven dose for supplements — most human data comes from eating apples, not isolated pills. Don't expect dramatic blood sugar control from a supplement dose. No evidence it builds muscle or burns fat.
Evidence-Based Benefits
Apple extracts containing phloretin modestly reduce early post-meal blood sugar spikes in healthy adults.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: 0.9–1.8g apple extract (phlorizin-rich) before meals
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
A topical gel containing phloretin reduced gum bleeding and inflammation in orthodontic patients with gingivitis.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Topical gel applied twice daily; exact phloretin dose not specified
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Phloretin glucuronide in urine reliably indicates apple consumption and can track dietary compliance.
Weak EvidenceEffective at: Two apples per day (observational)
Supporting studies (click to view on PubMed):
Absorption & Bioavailability
Moderate — phloretin is poorly water-soluble and chemically unstable, limiting absorption. It is metabolized into glucuronide and sulfate conjugates detectable in urine and plasma. Nanoencapsulation improves retention in lab models but has not been tested in humans.
Red Flags to Watch For
- Most compelling evidence comes from animal or cell studies, not human clinical trials
- Phloretin has shown off-target cytotoxicity (cell death) in lab studies, including in non-cancerous cells — safety at supplement doses is not well established
- No standardized human dose exists; supplement products may not deliver amounts used in research
- Topical dental gel study tested phloretin as part of a multi-ingredient formula — effects cannot be attributed to phloretin alone
- Silver nanoparticle delivery systems studied in animals carry unknown human safety profiles
Products Containing Phloretin
See how Phloretin is used in these analyzed products:
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Phloretin do?
Apple-derived polyphenol with early blood sugar and anti-inflammatory effects; most evidence is pre-clinical.
What is the effective dose of Phloretin?
No established dose
Is Phloretin safe?
Most compelling evidence comes from animal or cell studies, not human clinical trials
What doesn't Phloretin do?
Not proven to treat diabetes or replace diabetes medication.
Research Sources
- PubMed
- NIH DSLD
This information is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before starting any supplement regimen. Last updated: 2026-09-26