With the increasing popularity of plant-based diets, the term phytonutrient is becoming a topic of discussion. Today we delve deep into the world of phytonutrients, their benefits, and how they can transform your life. Let’s embark on this enlightening journey together!

What are Phytonutrients?

Also known as phytochemicals, are natural compounds produced by plants to protect themselves against environmental stressors, such as UV radiation, pests, and diseases. These compounds not only safeguard the plants but also offer numerous health benefits to those who consume them. Phytonutrients are responsible for the vibrant colors, aromas, and flavors of fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices, making them an essential component of a wholesome diet.

Phytonutrients, found in whole foods, help balance the body and maintain key processes between all of our health systems.*

Pronounced fight-o-nutrient

Phyto is the Greek word for plant.

Hence, mean plant-based nutrients.

They are commonly obtained from fruits and vegetables.

They protect plants from UV radiation, pests, and diseases.

These compounds not only safeguard the plants but also offer numerous health benefits to those who consume them.

Therefore, consuming these food items will be beneficial to our bodies as well.

In line with the latest research showing a connection between longer health spans and a diet rich in phytonutrients, Foundational Nutrition expands on traditional nutrient recommendations to include these active compounds. Phytonutrients, which are also micro in size, are found in the roots, seeds, fruits, and leaves of plants, and support the body in ways that help optimize nutrition each day, and with age.*

• Stress adaptogens
• Antioxidants
• Functional mushrooms
• Superfoods

Classes of Phytonutrients:

You will be surprised to know that there are over 100,000 types of phytonutrient and they can be classed in these 3 broad categories:

• Fruits & Veggies
• Herbs & Spices
• Medicinal plants

Types of Phytonutrients

You will find a common list of phytonutrients below:

Allicin is commonly found in white fruits and vegetables.

Carotenoids is commonly found in orange and yellow fruits and vegetables.

Lutein is commonly found in green fruits and vegetables.

Lycopene is commonly found in red fruits and vegetables.

Of course, there are a lot of other phytonutrients as well

Health Benefits of Phytonutrients

Red fruits and vegetables such as apples, red turnips, cranberries, tomatoes contain phytonutrients that promote heart health.

The colour of the fruit and vegetable determines the type of phytonutrient that it has.

Yellow/Orange fruits and vegetables such as pineapples, corn, carrots, oranges, contain phytonutrients that promote vision health.

White fruits and vegetables such as mushrooms, garlic, onions, turnips, contain phytonutrients that promote bone and joint health.

Green fruits and vegetables such as green tea, broccoli, kale, green peas contain phytonutrients that promote cellular health.

Purple/blue fruits and vegetables such as grapes, blueberries, eggplant, sweet potato, contain phytonutrients that promote brain health.

Foods That Are High In Phytonutrients

Tomatoes, Potatoes, Citrus Fruits, Carrots

Broccoli, Bok Choy, Kale, Spinach

Brown Rice, Barley, Quinoa

Black Coffee, Green Tea, Herbal Teas

Green Beans, Peas, Soy Beans

Almonds, Walnuts, Flaxseeds

Black Chocolates

Garlic, Leek, Onions

References

Merriam-Webster: https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/phyto-

Metcalf, E. https://www.webmd.com/diet/phytonutrients-faq

Levy, J. (2021, March 8) https://draxe.com/nutrition/phytonutrients/

Gupta, C., & Prakash, D. (2014, September) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25051278/

Why phytonutrients? https://www.nutrilite.com.my/en/article/why-phytonutrients

Liu, R. H. (2003, September 1). https://academic.oup.com/ajcn/article/78/3/517S/4689990

Reading Labels: If You Really Have To Buy Something Processed https://drhyman.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/ReadingLabels.pdf

Phytonutrients – Nature’s Natural Defense: https://www.unlockfood.ca/en/Articles/Vitamins-and-Minerals/Phytonutrients-%E2%80%93-Nature%E2%80%99s-Natural-Defense.aspx