Copyright 2005 Daniel Weigum
Phytonutrients or phytochemicals have recently been recognized
as playing an important part in one's health. Research has shown
that phytonutrients play a crucial role in proper absorption of
nutrients. Also, they have been important in cellular function
and regeneration. They work on our body systems to promote
health and prevent disease. There are many that fit in this
category. However, they are not considered essential but more so
semi-essential nutrients. These semi-essential nutrients have
been attributed as anti-oxidants, immune system boosters, and
hormone regulators.
Phytonutrients are nutrients found in fruits, vegetables, and
their extracts. Phytonutrients can also be found in liquid
vitamin supplements. To begin, an explanation of some classes of
the phytonutrients is necessary.
Bioflavonoids are a class of phytonutrients that bind to toxic
metal ions and help to rid the body of them. They also provide
anti-infection properties and are anti-carcinogenic as well.
Some of the best food choices are rosehips, berries, citrus
fruits, broccoli, cherries, papaya, grapes, cantaloupe, plums,
tea, buckwheat leaves, red wine, and tomatoes.
Another class of phytonutrients is the allium compounds. Allium
compounds benefit the body by fighting cancer and heart disease.
Garlic is in this class of phytonutrients. How do the allium
compounds prevent cancer? Garlic is able to block the conversion
of nitrites and nitrates (found in many preserved foods). Why is
this important? Well, the nitrites and nitrates convert in the
body to nitrosamines. Nitrosamines are known cancer causing
compounds. Also, garlic has been linked to lower cholesterol in
the blood. So garlic acts similar to antioxidants. Onions,
leeks, shallots, and chives are also considered allium compounds.
Why is broccoli good for us? Broccoli is good because it is
considered a glucosinolate? Glucosinolates are a class of
phytonutrients. Glucosinolates have been found to be important
cancer fighters. Studies show that foods high in glucosinolates
reduce the risk of lung, stomach, colorectal, and breast cancer.
Glucosinolates are so good at fighting cancer by detoxifying the
liver. Brussel sprouts and other cruciferous vegetables are good
sources of glucosinolates.
Ellagic acid is a class of phytonutrient. High levels of ellagic
acid can be found in strawberries, raspberries, and grapes. This
compound neutralizes carcinogens before they can damage DNA.
Ellagic acid neutralizes a specific carcinogen found in red
meat, nitrosamine. Also, ellagic acid is effective against
another common carcinogen, aflatoxin. This carcinogen is found
to be in low levels in a number of foods, including peanuts.
Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant and phytonutrient found in
tomatoes. Lycopene is credited for giving the tomato its red
color. Lycopene is also found in watermelon as well as
recognized on your ketchup bottle label. Some tomato plants have
actually been bioengineered to contain 3 to 4 times the normal
levels of lycopene. These are only a few of the phytonutrients
known to health science. There are many more with many different
benefits. The secret of phytonutrients has been discovered by
health professionals and awaits many to reap the benefits.
Maintaining good health is worth the time it takes to add a
tomato to a cheese burger or take a liquid vitamin supplement
fortified with phytonutrients.
About the author:
Daniel Weigum is a webmaster working to inform the health
consumer. Learn more about your health and
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Vitamins Online at vitaminmaniac.com.