With over 5000 known phytonutrients it always amazes me that they aren’t talked about more and today we are going to change that. Plant foods contain thousands of natural chemicals which help the body as a whole.
Phytonutrients:Micronutrients (Phyto) meaning plant of nutrient substances.
Phytonutrients are natural compounds found in plant foods such as vegetables, fruit, whole grain products and legumes. Many phytochemicals give the foods their color or smell. Foods containing phytochemicals are often very colorful, but white foods such as onions, garlic, and even olive oil are high in these nutrients.
Some of the most common phytonutrients are:
carotenoids/ellagic acid/resveratrol/flavonoids/phytoestrogens/glucosinolates
Six Phytonutrients Examples:
1.Red (Lycopene)One of the 600 Carotenoids (any of a class of mainly yellow, orange, or red fat-soluble pigments, including carotene, which give color to plant parts such as ripe tomatoes and autumn leaves)
Reduce the risk of prostate cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Fruits and Vegetables: Cherries, Cranberries, Mangos, Watermelon, Papaya, Beets, Red onions, Red potatoes, Red peppers
2.Orange and Yellow(Beta-Carotene) Reduce risk of breast cancer, colon and lung cancer, stroke and heart disease.
Helps to enhance immune function, and protects against premature again of cells
Fruits and Vegetables: Grapefruit, Mango, Oranges, Peaches, Carrots, Yellow corn, Yams, Sweet potatoes
3.Blue(Anthocyanidins) Promotes artery health, protection from blood clots, cancer, DNA damage.
Supports urinary tract health and memory
Fruits and Vegetables: Blackberries, Elderberries, Plums, Eggplant, Raisins, Black cherries, Beets, Blueberries, Purple tomatoes
4.Green( Lutein) Protects DNA by neutralizing free radicals and oxidation. May reduce numerous cancers, heart disease and Alzheimers.
Fruits and Vegetables: Collard greens, Mustard greens, Spinach, Brussels sprouts, Kiwis, Green grapes, Green pears, Honeydew, Melons
5. Blue/Green(Indole) Protects against estrogen-induced cancer cell growth, stimulates bone growth, promotes muscle growth and joint health
Vegetables: Bok choy, Collard greens, Radish, Mustard greens, Wasabi, Cauliflower, Watercress, Kale
6.White/Tan (Allicin) Anti-cancer properties, immune support, reduce risk of heart disease, and microbiome
Fruits and Vegetables: Bananas, Brown pear, White Peaches, Turnips, White corn, White potatoes, Parsnips
Always consult with your doctor or a trusted physician if you have any concerns before changing your regular diet or taking new supplements.
Check back for another post later this week! If you have any questions let me know!
Humble Soul 