Phytochemicals Flashcards
what are phytochemicals
Non-nutrient compound found in plant derived foods
Aids in disease prevention
Cancer
Heart disease
Can have physiological effects, act as antioxidants, mimic hormones, supress the development of disease
types of phytochemicals
phytoestrogen
antioxidants
prebiotics
probiotics
phytoestrogen
Mimics the effects of oestrogen in the body
Helps lessen menopause symptoms
Decrease risk of osteoporosis
Decrease incidence of heart disease
Slows the growth of breast and prostate cancers
Is found in
Soy products
Tempeh
Miso
Soy milk
antioxidants
They neutralise the free radicals (reactive substances that cause cell damage)
Common name for antioxidants
Lycopene
Found in: red fruit and veg
Tomato’s
Red capsicum
Grapefruit
Reduces risk of prostate cancer
Protects against heart disease
Carotenes
Found in: green and orange veg
Spinach
Broccoli
Pumpkin
Carrots
Unsure what it does but know its good
Resveratrol
Found in: dark coloured fruit and veg
Grapes (red wine)
Blueberries
Mulberries
Reduce cancer risk
Prevents heart damage
Plant sterols
Found in:
Vegetable oils
In small amounts:
Nuts
Grains
Cereals
Foods enriched with plant sterols
Margarine
Lowers blood cholesterol levels
Assist in diabetes control
prebiotics (NOT ASSESSED)
Compounds in food that induce the growth of beneficial microorganisms
Found in:
Garlic
Onions
Bananas
Barley
probiotics
Are living microorganisms promoted with claims that they provide health benefits when consumed, generally promoting growth of gut flora
Found in:
Yoghurt
Yakult
Sauerkraut
Tempeh
Introduces live bacteria into the gut
Enhances the immune system
Aids in digestion and absorption of nutrients
Protects bowel against some cancers like colon cancer
