Phytonutrients are the essential chemicals and compounds found in vegetables, fruits and berries. We need them for the myriad of different processes carried out in our bodies at a cellular level. There are thousands of different types, and our bodies have evolved to recognise them and transport them to where they are needed.
We need them both to keep healthy physically, and also mentally. Eat up!
Here are the top six :
Phytonutrient |
Benefits what? |
Food Sources |
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Beta-Carotene |
Immune System |
Pumpkin |
Think orange and dark, leafy green veggies |
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Lycopene |
Cancer (Prostate) |
Tomatoes |
The heating process makes lycopene easier for the body to absorb |
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Lutein |
Eye Health |
Collard Greens |
This phytonutrient is found in the macula of the eye |
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Resveratrol |
Heart Health |
Red Wine |
50 grams of red grapes can have up to 1.25 mg of resveratrol |
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Anthocyanidins |
Blood Vessel Health |
Blueberries |
Think red and purple berries |
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Isoflavones |
Menopause |
Soybeans |
50 grams of boiled soybeans offers 47 mg of isoflavones |
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