What are Phytochemicals and Phytonutrients?

What are Phytochemicals and Phytonutrients?

Phytonutrients, also called phytochemicals by some, do not have a single definition that all will agree. However, they are compounds derived from plant material that can become active in the body. Some people refine the definition further to say that despite their benefits, they are not essential for normal bodily functions. While the term superfood has an exotic ring about it, some of the fruits and vegetables highest in phytochemicals are familiar and mundane every day foods; at least, to those who have fruits and vegetables in their diets.

Some of the richest are: garlic, broccoli, soy, tomatoes, legumes, sweet potatoes, blueberries, chili peppers, citrus fruits such as oranges, and flax seeds. There are many more, and well studied at the present time are green tea and red grapes and wine.

The process of scientific studies of many of these plants and their health benefits is ongoing, and increasingly intensive. Recently, one of the compounds in red grapes, resveratrol, has been getting a lot of publicity following a study with mice, the results of which were published in late 2006. A couple of scientists are even reported to have said resveratrol could be the most important discovry by medical science since antibiotics. Perhaps the next ten years will provide solid scientific proof of that, but that remains to be seen.