Phytochemicals
Phytochemicals are sometimes referred to as phytonutrients, but unlike the traditional nutrients (protein, fat, vitamins, minerals), right now, they are not "essential" for life so the term phytochemical is probably more accurate. As science progresses and we learn more about these compounds and whether they are essential, phytonutrients might become a more appropriate name.
This list shows many of the phytochemicals that are found in fruits and vegetables.
- Allicin
- Carotenoids
- Flavonoids
- Lignans
- Lutein
- Lycopene
- Anthocyanins
- Phenols and cyclic compounds
- Isothiocyanates and Indoles
- Resveratrol
- Sulforaphane
- Zeaxanthin
- Ellagic acid
Phytochemicals are beneficial to health in many ways. For example, beta-carotene (A compound that can be converted to vitamin A) may serve as an antioxidant. Additionally, phytochemicals may enhance the immune response and help you resist disease by boosting the efficiency of your body’s built in defenses. Phytochemicals may even alter the way your body uses hormones to attack and kill cancer cells, aid in cellular communication, to repair DNA damage caused by smoking or other toxic compounds and detoxify certain carcinogens before they can hurt you.
In review, phytochemicals may:
- Serve as antioxidants
- Enhance immune response
- Alter estrogen metabolism
- Cause cancer cells to die (apoptosis)
- Repair DNA damage caused by toxic compounds
- Detoxify carcinogens
Lesson Contents
I. Add Color to your Plate: Introduction
II. Add Color to your Plate: Basics
III. Add Color to your Plate: Phytochemicals
IV. Add Color to your Plate: Red Group
V. Add Color to your Plate: Blue/Purple Group
VI. Add Color to your Plate: Yellow/Orange Group
VII. Add Color to your Plate: Green Group
VIII. Add Color to your Plate: White Group
IX. Add Color to your Plate: Top Ten Fruits and Vegetables
X. Add Color to your Plate: Build a Healthy Lifestyle
XI. Add Color to your Plate: Creative Ways to Add Fruits & Vegetables
VII. Add Color to your Plate: References
