Phytonutrients, found in various foods, contain elements that promote good health and are sometimes known as superfoods. Soybeans, legumes, broccoli, sweet potatoes, citrus fruits, tomatoes, blueberries, flax seeds, garlic, and chili peppers are all excellent sources of phytonutrients. Including these foods in your diet can help maintain physical and mental well-being.
Sometimes referred to as phytochemicals, phytonutrients are components found in a variety of different types of foods, especially plants. While not specifically classified as essential nutrients for life, phytonutrients contain elements that can help promote good health. Because they often contain antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds, phytochemical foods are sometimes known as superfoods.
There are several types of fruits and vegetables that contain one or more examples of phytonutrients. Soybeans are considered to be a major source of phyto elements. In addition to high levels of protein, soy also contains isoflavones and protease inhibitors that can improve cardiovascular health. Other types of legumes are also rich in phytonutrients, such as peas, lentils and beans.
Several other vegetables are excellent sources of phytonutrients. Broccoli is high in selenium and lignans, as well as plenty of vitamin C. Sweet potatoes provide an excellent source of beta-carotene.
Fruits provide a variety of phytonutrient compounds. Most citrus fruits provide substantial amounts of ferulic and oxalic acids, as well as cryptoxanthin and vitamin C. Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, as well as being an excellent source of vitamin C and beta-carotene. Blueberries provide an excellent source of dietary tannic acid, as well as anthocyanins and lignans.
Other types of food and flavor enhancers will also include some forms of phytonutrients. Flax seeds are a great example. Both the seeds and the oil produced from the seeds contain healthy amounts of lignans. In addition to enhancing the flavor of foods, garlic will provide useful doses of limonene and several thiosulfonates. Chili peppers are high in capsaicin or cayenne, which many herbalists consider nothing short of heart food.
While phytonutrients are not considered to be life’s essential nutrients, they are thought to be excellent sources to help maintain a healthy body and mind. Making sure you include at least some of the fruits, vegetables and spices that contain these important building blocks in your daily diet will prove beneficial in maintaining both physical and mental well-being.
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