Phytochemicals

Phytochemicals are chemical compounds produced by plants. They are generally involved in the plant's normal growth, development, and defense against various types of stress. Some phytochemicals have been used in traditional medicine, and many are under investigation for their potential health benefits.

Overview

Phytochemicals are non-nutritive plant chemicals that have protective or disease preventive properties. They are non-essential nutrients, meaning that they are not required by the human body for sustaining life. It is well-known that plant produce these chemicals to protect themselves but recent research demonstrate that they can also protect humans against diseases. There are more than thousand known phytochemicals. Some of the well-known phytochemicals are lycopene in tomatoes, isoflavones in soy and flavanoids in fruits.

Classification

Phytochemicals can be classified into different categories based on their chemical structure and function. These categories include phenols, alkaloids, polyphenols, flavonoids, terpenes, and saponins. Each category has its own unique properties and potential health benefits.

Health Benefits

Many phytochemicals have been found to have potential health benefits. For example, some phytochemicals have antioxidant properties, which can help protect cells from damage. Other phytochemicals have been found to have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and immune-boosting properties. However, more research is needed to fully understand the health benefits of phytochemicals and how they work.

Risks and Considerations

While many phytochemicals have potential health benefits, they can also have side effects and interact with medications. Therefore, it's important to talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen. Additionally, because phytochemicals are found in plants, people with allergies or sensitivities to certain plants may need to avoid certain phytochemicals.

See Also

• Antioxidant
• Flavonoid
• Polyphenol
• Terpene
• Saponin

References

Phytochemicals Resources
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