AKN / Chemical Compounds /
What is a phytochemical?
A phytochemical is a type of bioactive chemical compound found in plant-based foods. (1)
A phytochemical is also known as a phytonutrient. (1)
A phytochemical has antioxidant properties. (1)
What do phytochemicals do?
Phytochemicals appear to be protective against heart disease, cancer, type 2 diabetes, and neurological diseases like Alzhelmer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease. (1)
associated with sharper vision (1)
can potentially: aid the functioning of the immune system, protect cells and DNA from damage that may lead to cancer, reduce inflammation, slow the growth of some cancer cells, help regulate hormones, help eye health and vision, and help with skin and bone health. (1)
What are types of phytochemicals?
About 10,000 different phyochemicals have been identified. (1)
polyphenols (1)
flavonoids (1)
isoflavones (1)
carotenoids (1)
What contains phytochemicals?
Phytochemicals are found in all plant-based foods, including:
fruits (1)
vegetables (1)
legumes (1)
grains (1)
beans (1)
nuts (1)
seeds (1)
herbs and spices (1)
What is the RDA for phytochemicals?
There is not currently a recommendation for how much of these compounds a human should consume. (1)
Resources
1. https://www.goodrx.com/well-being/diet-nutrition/phytochemicals-types-benefits
