Nature is a complex system like our human body. Both comprise multiple components that contribute to the proper functioning of that system. Phytonutrient is one such element in nature. Many health products include phytonutrients and advertise the product based on that. As a result, most of us will even be familiar with the term phytonutrients. But, I wonder whether most of us know exactly what phytonutrients are. So, what are phytonutrients? What is its function? What does it consist of? Let’s go ahead and find answers to these questions.

What are Phytonutrients?

The term phytonutrient is made by combining two terms, Phyto and nutrient. Phyto translates into the plant. Hence, phytonutrients are another term for plant nutrients or nutrient present in plants. Or in other words, they are the natural chemicals and compounds plants produce. These plant-based chemicals, also known as phytochemicals, are extremely beneficial to the human body. They play a major role in preventing and treating various diseases. In short, phytonutrients are plant compounds that provide humans with overall well-being by working with several other essential nutrients in our bodies. Now, let’s learn more about the components and functions of phytonutrients.

What are the functions of Phytonutrients?

As the name suggests, our ecosystem has multiple varieties of almost a hundred phytonutrients. But we only have access to a few because the scientist managed to isolate and test them. Some of them are carotenoids, lutein, ellagic acid, resveratrol, flavonoids, phytoestrogens and glucosinolates. They aren’t similar to the essential and non-essential nutrients in our bodies.

These nutrients are part of a plant’s immune system. They are produced in plants to protect them from the harmful rays of the sun and the attack of insects, viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites etc. Many phytochemicals can also give plants, fruits or vegetables vibrant colours and amazing fragrances. Most of the time, foods containing phytonutrients will be colourful. But, unlike this trend, white food items like onion, garlic etc., are extremely high in them.

Now, we found out what phytonutrients are. We also found that they are an integral part of plant defence mechanisms. But then, why is this component included in our health supplements? Why do health specialists suggest as to include phytonutrients in our diet? To understand that, one should learn about the various health benefits phytonutrients can offer.

What are the health benefits provided by phytonutrients?

Reduces inflammation

Inflammation is the body’s natural response to injury. But, some may also suffer from chronic inflammation, which is associated with many conditions ranging from connective tissue disorders to cancer. Phytonutrients can reduce these inflammations in the body and relieve people suffering from them.

Protects Your Brain

Several phytonutrients like epigallocatechin-3-galeate, berberine, curcumin, resveratrol, quercetin and limonoids have the ability to protect your nervous system. As a result, some recent studies have found that phytonutrients can help individuals suffering from neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.

Fights oxidative stress

Highly unstable, reactive molecules named Free radicals, produced by toxins in the environment and by normal metabolic processes in the body, create oxidative stress in our body. These free radicals can damage DNA and other cellular components if left unchecked. As phytonutrients act as excellent antioxidants, they can neutralize these free radicals, thereby reducing the damage they can cause.

Boosts immunity

Some phytonutrients can act as anti-microbial agents. They will protect your body from being infected by pathologic bacteria or viruses. They also help by modulating the immune system. Moreover, they will also try to maintain a delicate balance between overactive and underactive immune systems through this process.

Prevents Cancer

You know what. Some phytochemicals even can repair the mutated DNAs in your body. That means they can slow the growth of tumours or, even better, facilitate apoptosis. Some of the phytonutrients that have anti-cancer properties are curcumin, a component of turmeric; proanthocyanidins found in berries and pistachios and capsaicin, which is found in sweet red and chilli peppers.

Reduces Effects of Aging

Several phytochemicals have demonstrated possible anti-ageing effects in at least a few clinical trials and various mechanisms. Some of the more common include resveratrol, epicatechin, quercetin, curcumin, and allicin.

We finally have found what phytonutrients exactly are and how we benefit from consuming them. But do you know how to access it? Most food items around us, like fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes and even tea, can have phytonutrients. But that doesn’t mean you can get many phytonutrients of excellent quality by including those in your diet. Instead, choose a product like Nutriplus DailyHealth, specifically made with one of the most excellent and richest sources of phytonutrients known to humankind, AFA.

Nutriplus DailyHealth

Have you ever heard about Aphanizomenon flos-aquae, otherwise known as AFA? It is a form of blue-green algae exclusively found in the Klamath Lake in the pristine of Oregon, USA. This extremely rare superfood blooms only twice a year, making it extremely difficult to source. But just like or more than that eggs, this single product can ensure your overall wellness. As a nutrition tablet, Nutriplus DailyHealth is doing an exceedingly awesome job. By allowing us to access this extremely rich superfood rich in natural bioavailable vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, trace elements, plant pigments and phytonutrients through a single tablet, Nutriplus DailyHealth is allowing us to have a dose of wellness every day.

So what are you waiting for? Go and grab your daily dose of goodness. If you have a Nutrplus DailyHealth with you, you would never have asked what phytonutrients are, right? So, at least now, be smart and make wise choices for a happy and healthy future.