Phytonutrients, also known as phytochemicals are natural compounds produced by plants, which maintain health and safeguard them from insects, pathogens, and harmful UV rays.  Phytonutrients are found plentiful in vegetables, fruits, whole grains, beans, tea, nuts, and spices. They are well-known to exhibit potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory traits that have a beneficial effect on the body and play a key role in preventing and treating health anomalies.

There are more than thousands of phytonutrients found in plants and related foods, but only a small number have tested for their efficacy. Some of these include carotenoids, flavonoids, isothiocyanates, and many more, which have positive effects on the body and may be neuroprotective, trigger immunity, regulate hormones, and lowers the risk of inflammation.

Phytochemicals are usually different from vitamins, minerals, and macronutrients. Many of these phytonutrients deliver the food their natural colour or smell. Foods that are loaded with phytochemicals are very colourful, but even white foods such as onions, garlic, and olive oil are packed with these nutrients as well.

Also Read: Flavonoids: Types, Functions, Health Benefits And Food Sources

Health Benefitting Properties Of Phytonutrients

Strong Antioxidant

Phytochemical functions as a potent antioxidant that scavenges free radicals, combats oxidative stress and prevents cell damage.     

Anti-Inflammatory Effects

The strong anti-inflammatory traits of phytonutrients are valuable to reduce inflammation in the body and lower the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.

Immune Booster

Phytonutrients work well in building a robust immune system and prevent harmful pathogens from invading the body.

Neuroprotective Effects

Strong neuroprotective effects of phytonutrients help people with Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.

Anti-Cancer Effects

Some phytochemicals work amazingly well in repairing mutated DNA genes that can lead to cancer and prevent the growth of tumour cells.

Hormone Regulation

Phytonutrients can actively regulate the functioning of certain hormones like estrogen and insulin.

Anti-Aging

A huge array of phytonutrients exhibited strong anti-aging properties and reduce signs of premature aging.

Phytonutrients are also available in the form of supplements. However, they are best consumed as nutrient-packed foods. To reap the incredible wellness incentives of these bioactive food components have a rainbow diet comprising a colourful array of foods.

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