Phytonutrients...Are these legitimately beneficial or just a nutrition fad?
You`ll be happy to know they are pretty darn special. Phytonutrients are organic substances found in plant-based foods that are believed to be beneficial to the human body in a variety of ways, depending on the particular nutrient.
Some types of phytonutrients include carotenoids (Sound familiar? Think: Vitamin A!), flavonoids, phenols, and sulfides (not sulfates). The prefix "phyto" is basically Greek for "plant". Therefore, turn to fruits and vegetables for these important dietary components!
Carotenoids are the most familiar and are found in brightly colored orange, red, and yellow veggies: carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, citrus fruits, tomatoes. However, carotenoids also occur in dark leafy greens: kale, spinach, etc. This class of phytonutrients helps protect the eyes from the effects of aging. (Carotenoids are a precursor to Vit A...which we all know is the optical vitamin!) It also is proposed that they prevent both cancer and heart disease.
Not a fan of veggies? Why not make them something they usually aren`t: a snack!
Disease-Phyting Kale Chips
1 head kale
2 Tbsp olive oil
Sea salt or kosher salt
Wash and dry kale thoroughly. Cut stems and remove ribs. Chop into pieces the size of potato chips.
Toss with olive oil and bake at 275 degrees for 10 minutes. Flip kale to opposite side and bake for another ten minutes. Let cool and enjoy!
*Sources used: WebMD
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