Phytochemicals are natural compounds found in fruits, vegetables, and other plants. The term "phyto" derives from the Greek word for "plant." There are well over a thousand known phytochemicals and possibly many more waiting to be discovered. Some phytochemicals are plant pigments having vivid hues of red, orange, blue, and purple.
When we eat fruits and vegetables containing phytochemicals, they pass along to us many protective benefits. Eating fruits and vegetables with high amounts of phytochemicals may decrease the risk of developing diabetes, decrease the risk of heart disease and high blood pressure, and may protect us from some cancers.
