What are phytonutrients?
Phytonutrients, also known as phytochemicals, are natural compounds found in plants that are known to be active in fighting disease through their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory potential.
Not only do phytonutrients help the plants themselves by protecting them from UV radiation, germs, fungi and bugs, they also play a key role in protecting the human body. Phytonutrients help the body detox, increase the immune system, promote cardiovascular health, improve estrogen metabolism and promote cancer cell death. Research studies have shown that phytonutrients help to decrease the risk of chronic disease development, cancer and heart disease. It has been proven that people with the highest amount of plants in their diet had the lowest risk of these diseases.
There are numerous foods that you can incorporate into your diet that contain phytonutrients. The highest sources are fruits and vegetables. Other options are whole grains, spices, herbs, nuts and seeds.
You may have heard the term, “Eat the Rainbow” and have wondered if this really matters. It does! Different colors of fruits and vegetables contain different key phytonutrients. It is important to have at least one or two foods of each color daily to ensure you are consuming these amazing nutrients.
There are thousands of phytonutrients. Some of the most common include:
Carotenoids:
- Important for the health of the immune system, eye health and has been associated with decreased cancer risk.
- Common food sources include pumpkin, carrots, winter squash, yams/sweet potatoes
Flavonoids:
- High in antioxidants and cancer reduction potential
- Common food sources include coffee, green tea, onions, ginger
Phytoestrogens:
- Shown to be effective in decreasing osteoporosis, cancer risk and heart disease.
- Common food sources include soy, legumes, coffee and oranges.
Resveratrol:
- Supports heart and brain health
- Common sources- grape skin and red wine
Glucosinolates:
- Found to be effective in stabilizing stress response, decreasing inflammation and improving metabolic function
- Common food sources include cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, brussel sprouts, and cabbage.
Anthocyanins:
- Contain anti-inflammatory, anti-viral and anti-cancer potential.
- Common food sources include berries, tomatoes, pomegranates, red onions and grapes.
It is never too late to start making the change! Start making your rainbow plate today!