What Are Phytochemicals?

What Are Phytochemicals?

Understanding nutrition and what you can do to improve your body’s health is vital to planning to meet your nutrition and wellness goals. Phytochemicals are an important aspect of nutrition that can provide a wide array of health benefits. 


What Are Phytochemicals?

A phytochemical is any biologically active compound found in plants. This broad category includes chemicals that are harnessed for their medicinal benefits, or even used for poison, but also include a number of compounds known for their nutritional benefit.

Eating a diet that is high in beneficial compounds will help to improve all aspects of your health. Dieticians recommend eating a “rainbow diet” as a way to achieve this goal. In other words, you should try to fill your plate with fruits and vegetables of every color of the rainbow to ensure you’re getting the varied nutrients your body needs. Supplements can also be helpful for anyone who wishes to increase their phytochemical intake.

Beneficial Compounds Found in Plants

Flavonoids

Inflammation is associated with a wide variety of health conditions, from asthma to rheumatoid arthritis and more. The anti-inflammatory properties of flavonoids can be used to help manage these conditions. These compounds can be found in whole grains, citrus fruits, berries, apples, tea, soybeans, walnuts, and other sources.

Anthocyanins

High blood pressure is an issue that many people struggle with as a result of poor nutrition. Anthocyanins are a compound found in berries that may reduce blood pressure. This can help promote heart health, decrease the risk of a stroke, and has a number of other health benefits.

Carotenoids

Cancer is a serious health concern that unfortunately affects many people. You can take advantage of carotenoids to inhibit cancer cell growth to keep you healthy. These compounds also help to boost your immune system and improve cardiovascular health. Eating orange squash, carrots, cooked tomatoes, sweet potatoes, and broccoli are good ways to increase your intake of this phytochemical.

Lutein

Good vision is an important part of your health, and lutein is a compound that can help keep your vision sharp. Dark, leafy greens like spinach and shard are a good source of this compound, adding to the health benefits of a diet rich in vegetables.

Isothiocyanates

Another compound that can protect against cancer, isothiocyanates, are another great way you can improve your overall health. These compounds are also beneficial for your cardiovascular system. Vegetables such as kale, cauliflower, and broccoli are all rich in isothiocyanates.  Be sure to add plenty of these vegetables to your daily meals and use supplements as needed.

Our all natural supplements are a great way to increase your intake of important nutritional compounds like these. We have products suitable for people with all sorts of nutritional needs. Visit Panacea Scientific to see what Nature’s remedies can do for you.

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