Phytochemicals in Foods

Phytochemicals are thousands of naturally occurring chemicals found in our daily fruits, vegetables and grains.

Do all plants contain phytochemicals ?

Yes, but in varying amounts.

What are Phytochemicals ?

Phytochemicals are chemical compounds that are naturally found in common fruits, vegetables and grains that we consume. 

Some of these chemical compounds give these foods their attractive flavours and smell.  For example, the pungent taste and smell of garlic, shallots and onion.

Some phytochemicals such as anthocyanidins give foods their distinctive colour.  For examples, cherries red and blueberries blue.

Some phytochemicals protect plants and fruits by repelling insects.

There are around four thousand known phytochemicals.  Some are beneficial to humans by acting as antioxidants that dispose cell-damaging free radicals.  But some are known to be toxic, such as those found in poisonous mushrooms.

What are some popular sources of antioxidants ?
 
Fruits and vegetables such as guavas, lady's fingers and plums are known to be rich sources of antioxidants.  Tubers like yam and beetroot, which are starchy and high in carbohydrates, are also rich in antioxidants.

Should we focus on any single food to get most out of phytochemicals ?

No.  Scientists agree that no single food group is going to work miracles for our health as these substances work in synergy and in conjunction with other food  compounds such as fibres, vitamins and minerals to be beneficial to our bodies.