You’ve heard of amino acids, vitamins, and minerals, but you need to have adequate phytonutrients in your diet as well.
What exactly are these chemicals, and how do they help you maintain a healthy diet?
Here is some information about these substances, as well as the best phytonutrients-rich foods to prepare.
Understanding What Phytonutrients Are
Phytonutrients are actually a form of antioxidants, which means that the more you eat them, the more you will be fighting off disease and infection your body. ‘Phyto’ actually comes from the Greek word meaning ‘plant’, the nutrients are completely all natural.
These substances help to boost the immune system, and are found in most fruits and vegetables, but there are some food items that have slightly higher amounts.
Phytonutrients are broken up into a few different sections, since you can find these nutrients in a number of natural foods. Lignan, one of the phytonutrients found in grains like rye and barely, is very important for colon health, and the substance is also found in oatmeal and flax seed, so you can start your day with this healthy substance.
Polyphenols, another one of the phytonutrients that you need to incorporate into your diet, can be found in purple grapes, red wine, soy products, and cranberries.
Cranberries help to cleanse the liver, and soy milk and tofu have the protein you need to build strong bones and muscles. Herbal and green teas are also great sources of phytonutrients; these teas are rich in vitamins and minerals as well, and can make it easier for the kidneys and liver to rid themselves of toxins.
Where Do You Find Foods That Contain Phytonutrients
Fruits that are pink or red in color contain lycopene, which is another one of the important phytonutrients that you’ll need for a completely balanced diet. This substance has the chemicals that are needed to protect against prostate cancer, and will keep the body from forming other cancer cells that could harm the body.
So, be sure that you eat plenty of fresh tomatoes (about three servings a week should be fine), as well as pink grapefruit and watermelon for great skin, more energy, and healthy brain function.
Getting The Most Benefit From Phytonutrients
There are also a number of vitamins and nutrients that work well with phytonutrients; these should be included in the diet as well to make sure that you have all the energy needed to complete all the tasks you have scheduled for the day.
For instance, you may want to take Coenzyme Q10 supplements to help you better digest your food, since this substance assists the adrenal glands in processing nutrients.
You may also want to supplement your phytonutrients intake by taking Glutathione; this can be found at your local health food store.
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