One group of phytonutrients that seems to have a monumental influence on well-being, longevity and overall health is the caretenoids. Some, like beta-carotene (carrots and sweet potatoes) and lycopene (tomatoes) you may have heard of.
Lutein (which is responsible for the vibrant yellow colour in corn)
can dramatically improve eye health, prevent clogged arteries, and
help in the combat of arthritis.
However, to make it a bit confusing, dark leafy greens are also very high in Lutein, however, the chlorophyll covers up the vibrant yellow colour.
Anthocyanins, which are phytonutrients present in blue and purple
plants (blueberries, blackberries, acai) are powerful antioxidants,
and help protect plants from a host of environmental assaults, such as.
UV radiation. When consumed by us humans, these plants can protect our bodies as well. Anthocyanins are very good at mopping up free radicalsin the human body- unstable molecules triggered by environmental toxins, cigarette smoke, fried foods, burnt meat, radiation and even the body’s own metabolic processes.
I could go on all day about the various phytonutrients in fruits and
vegetables. Instead, i will broadly suggest that if you introduce more
colourful fruits and vegetables (both raw and cooked) into your diet,
you are likely to reap the benefits across the board.
There have been studies into the phytonutrient content of organic
produce verse conventional produce, and it does appear that there are higher levels in the organic produce. So what are you waiting for?
Head to your local organic store or market and stock up on a
phytonutrient rich rainbow feast. |
