Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients are nonvitamin, nonmineral components of food that have significant health benefits.  Below are three of the most common phytonutrients. 

1.  Polyphenols act as antioxidants.  They have anti-inflammatory properties and other health promoting abilities.  Tea, nuts, and berries are 3 common foods containing polyphenols.

2.  Cartenoids are pigments found in red and yellow vegetables.  They contain beta-carotene, lutein, and lycopene.  These nutrients help to protect us from disease and the effects of aging.  Some good choices are apricots, mangoes, sweet potatoes, red and yellow peppers, tomatoes, and carrots.

3.  Phytoestrogens are plant estrogens.  They occur naturally in soy foods as well as in whole wheat, seeds, grains, and some vegetables and fruits.  It is believed that these foods can help protect us from hormone related cancers such as prostate and breast cancer.