What are phytochemicals, and do they reduce cancer risk?
The term phytochemicals refers to a wide range of compounds made by plants. Some have either antioxidant or hormone-like actions. Studies looking at the effects of phytochemicals on cancer recurrence or progression are very limited. The little data that exists is mixed or comes from only a few studies. Eating lots of vegetables and fruits reduces the risk of some types of cancer, so researchers are looking for the specific components that might account for this. At this time there is no evidence that phytochemicals taken as supplements are as helpful as the vegetables, fruits, beans, and grains they come from.
