What are Phytonutrients?

Phytonutrients are organic components of plants that help promote health. Fruits, vegetables, grains, nuts, and teas contain various types of phytonutrients. Phytonutrients are also commonly called phytochemicals, since they are not considered essential for life as other nutrients are. The term stems from the ancient Greek word "phyton" (for plant). Phytonutrients are simply nutrients from plants! Even though there are many phytonutrients that have been identified, it is theorized that there are thousands more left to discover.

There are various classes of phytonutrients, some the most common being carotenoids, flavonoids (polyphenols), isoflavones (phytoestrogens), and lignans (phytoestrogens).
Phytonutrients help promote health in various ways, although more research is needed to determine the exact ways these chemicals work in the human body. Phytonutrients are associated with the prevention and treatment of various diseases such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. Some of their roles in the body include serving as antioxidants, helping repair DNA damage, promoting cancer-cell death (apoptosis), and helping lower cholesterol.

Carotenoids, flavonoids, isoflavones, and lignans will be discussed in greater detail in further articles coming soon!