What are phytochemicals?
Phytochemicals, or phytonutrients, are found in plant-based foods. There are a large number of different phytochemicals, and they contain protective, disease-preventing compounds. Phytochemicals are known to help prevent and/or treat several of the leading causes of death, including cancer, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and hypertension. They are involved in many processes including preventing cell damage, preventing cancer cell replication and decreasing cholesterol levels. Those consumed naturally from foods may be more beneficial than those taken through pill supplements. Phytochemicals include allyl suphides found in garlic and lycopene found in tomatoes. Foods rich in phytonutrients include honey, garlic, tomatoes, broccoli, chrysanthemum and soy.
