Phytochemicals literally mean “plant chemicals.” Scientists have identified thousands of different phytochemicals, found in vegetables, fruits, beans, whole grains, nuts and seeds. Eating lots of plant foods rich in phytochemicals may help to prevent at least one in every five cases of cancer, as well as other serious ailments such as heart disease.
Phytochemicals are defined as bioactive nutrient plant chemicals in fruits, vegetables, grains, and other plant foods that may provide desirable health benefits beyond basic nutrition to reduce the risk of major chronic diseases
How Do Phytochemicals Help Prevent Diseases?
- Stimulate the immune system, the body’s defense against viruses, bacteria and other disease?causing agents.
- Block the potential for carcinogens (cancer causing substances) to be formed in the body from substances we eat, drink and absorb from the environment.
- Reduce oxidation, the damage to cells that occurs with aging and exposure to pollution. Oxidation, caused by molecules called “free radicals,” can cause abnormalities in cells that may eventually lead to cancer.
- Slow the growth rate of cancer cells.
- Reduce inflammation that provides a setting favorable for cancer growth.
- Trigger death (a process known as apoptosis) of damaged cells that may be precursors to cancer.
- Prevent DNA damage and help with DNA repair mechanisms.
- Help to regulate hormones, such as estrogen and insulin. Excess levels of these hormones are linked with increased risk for breast and colon cancer.
Classes of Phytochemicals
- Carotenoids
- Flavonoids
- Indoles and Glucosinolates
- Inositol
- Isoflavones
- Isothiocyanates
- Polyphenols
- Terpenes
Facebook Comments