Phytonutrients are plant-derived chemicals that are not...

Name: Problem 9, Chapter 32: Biology: Concepts and Investigations
Uploaded: 2021-08-09T07:33:34-08:00
Duration: 7 min 47 s
Channel: Sana Riaz
Description: Phytonutrients are plant-derived chemicals that are not essential to the human diet, but they may improve health. Use the Internet to research a phytonutrient. What foods contain the phytonutrient you selected? What diseases might consuming the nutrient help to prevent?

Phytonutrients are plant-derived chemicals that are not essential to the human diet, but they may improve health. Use the Internet to research a phytonutrient. What foods contain the phytonutrient you selected? What diseases might consuming the nutrient help to prevent?

Labs

Want to see this concept in action?

NEW

Explore this concept interactively to see how it behaves as you change inputs.

View Labs

Key Concepts

Phytonutrients

Phytonutrients are naturally occurring compounds found in plants that are not classified as essential vitamins or minerals, yet they offer potential health benefits. They can provide antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immune-boosting properties, which contribute to improved overall health and the prevention of certain diseases.

Dietary Sources

The primary dietary sources of phytonutrients are fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. Different plants contain various phytonutrients, meaning that a diverse and balanced diet rich in colorful produce can maximize the intake of these beneficial compounds.

Disease Prevention

Research suggests that phytonutrients may help in reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular diseases, certain types of cancer, and neurodegenerative disorders. Their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities are largely responsible for these protective effects, as they help neutralize harmful free radicals and modulate biological processes associated with disease development.

Transcript

Please give Ace some feedback