Examples of Phytonutrients and Phytochemicals in Foods
Lately, we have been hearing more and more of phytonutrients and their role in our health.
The phytonutrients (or phytochemicals) are organic components found in plants, and are believed to contribute to human health.
They are not considered essential for survival, but they are significant in maintaining a healthier life, of better quality.
The variety of phytonutrients is wide, and they are found in fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts and teas.
High amounts can be obtained from fruits and vegetables which have strong colors.
One of the well known phytonutrients is Lycopene, found in tomatoes.
To ensure you receive a wide range of different phytonutrients, it is important to eat at least one of each color groups: - Orange - squash, mango, carrots - Red-Purple - grapes, cherries,strawberries - Orange-Yellow - oranges, pineapples - Green-Yellow - avocado, spinach, green beans - Red - tomatoes, watermelon - Green - brocolli, cabbage, cauliflower Phytonutrients work in different ways and have different functions, which help maintain a healthy body.
Some examples are: As antioxidants- most phytonutrients help protect the body cells from oxidative damage, thus decreasing risk of some cancer types; - Imitation of human estrogen assists in lowering osteoporosis and symptoms related to menopause; - Interference with cell DNA replication, thus helping prevent cancer cells from multiplying; - They provide a good source of vitamin A; - They enhance immune response; - They have anti-bacterial effect; - Phytonutrients are also linked with prevention or treatment of diabetes and heart disease.
It is already known that consumption of vegetables and fruits have an important role in reducing risk for heart disease and several types of cancer.
People are becoming more aware of the benefits and significance of different nutrients in general, including those of phytonutrients.
Research related to phytonutrients is consistently growing.
It is only a matter of time until there will be more information linking them to a healthier way of life.
The phytonutrients (or phytochemicals) are organic components found in plants, and are believed to contribute to human health.
They are not considered essential for survival, but they are significant in maintaining a healthier life, of better quality.
The variety of phytonutrients is wide, and they are found in fruits, vegetables, legumes, grains, nuts and teas.
High amounts can be obtained from fruits and vegetables which have strong colors.
One of the well known phytonutrients is Lycopene, found in tomatoes.
To ensure you receive a wide range of different phytonutrients, it is important to eat at least one of each color groups: - Orange - squash, mango, carrots - Red-Purple - grapes, cherries,strawberries - Orange-Yellow - oranges, pineapples - Green-Yellow - avocado, spinach, green beans - Red - tomatoes, watermelon - Green - brocolli, cabbage, cauliflower Phytonutrients work in different ways and have different functions, which help maintain a healthy body.
Some examples are: As antioxidants- most phytonutrients help protect the body cells from oxidative damage, thus decreasing risk of some cancer types; - Imitation of human estrogen assists in lowering osteoporosis and symptoms related to menopause; - Interference with cell DNA replication, thus helping prevent cancer cells from multiplying; - They provide a good source of vitamin A; - They enhance immune response; - They have anti-bacterial effect; - Phytonutrients are also linked with prevention or treatment of diabetes and heart disease.
It is already known that consumption of vegetables and fruits have an important role in reducing risk for heart disease and several types of cancer.
People are becoming more aware of the benefits and significance of different nutrients in general, including those of phytonutrients.
Research related to phytonutrients is consistently growing.
It is only a matter of time until there will be more information linking them to a healthier way of life.
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