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Phytochemicals

By Zachary Thompson

Phytochemicals are bio-chemicals found in plants. They are used as protection against the many elements of nature that can harm them. These are the chemicals that give plants their unique characteristics; texture, smell, flavor, and color. We can get these useful Phytochemicals for our own use by eating seeds, legumes, vegetables, and grains.

Phytochemicals are not considered nutrients, but are still very valuable to us. Much research has been done with Phytochemicals to find out exactly how they can help us. Because there are so many Phytochemicals in the plant kingdom, it has been somewhat difficult to research, due to the fact that there is low concentration of these plants. You can get Phytochemicals by eating vine ripen, fresh fruits and vegetables. Another alternative is taking supplements.

How do Phytochemicals help us? It is thought that they may help us in our fight against cancer, but more research needs to be done to prove this. Research is being done on Phytochemicals; like ellagic acid, indole-3-carbinol, sulphoraphane, and flavonoids that have been found to be cancer-blocking agents.

Cancer suppressing agents inhibit multiplication or growth of cancer cells. Β-carotene, curcumin, epigallocatechin-gallate, genistein, resveratrol, gingerol, and capsaicin are all examples of Phytochemicals.

Here are some Phytochemicals that scientists are researching:

•Isothiocyanates and Indoles: They are found in vegetables like broccoli, cauliflower, watercress and cabbage.

•Isoflavones: This is found in soybeans and legumes.

•Allyl sulfides can be found in onions and garlic.

•Polyphenols: are found in Green tea.

•Carotenoids: This is part of a large group and includes β-carotene vitamin A, and can be found in several vegetables including carrots.

•Lycopene: this is found in Tomatoes and tomato ketchup.

•Phenols: this can be found in grapes in the form of resveratrol. It is useful for protection against inflammation.

•Spices also have these useful substances. For example curcumin in turmeric, capsaicin in chili peppers, and gingerol in ginger.

From ancient times herbs and spices have been used to heal, and now due to recent research, we are finding out why certain plants can help us improve our immune system and heal our bodies. As scientists do more research, we will be able to find out exactly how and why Phytochemicals help us and how we can improve our health and well-being with them.

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Copyright by Zachary Thompson

Zach Thompson is a Glyconutrients Representative. His clients range from actresses to pro athletes. You can get a free Glyconutrients consultation by visiting the site.

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