Phytochemicals
(plant chemicals)
Definition of functional foods & Phytochemicals
Functional Foods: Food that provide specific health benefits beyond their natural nutrition value.
Phytochemicals: Substances found in plants that may fight diseases or cause other health benefits.
Health Benefits
They protect against:
- Cancer
- Age-related Blindness
- Heart Disease
- Urinary Tract Infections
Proposed Health Benefits
- Improve Vision
- Maintain bone health
- Maintain Blood Vessel condition
- Lower Cholesterol
- Prevent Inflammation
Examples of Phytochemicals
Lycopene: protect against cancer, found in red fruits and veggies like tomatoes and apples.
Anthocyanins: protect against heart disease, found in red, blue, and purple fruits and veggies like blueberries and plums.
Allicin: protects against cancer and heart disease, found in white, tan, and brown fruits and veggies such as garlic and onions.
Indoles: majorly protect against cancer, found in green fruits and veggies such as cabbage and broccoli.