Phytochemicals are not classified as nutrients, but they play an important role in the body. They are plant-matter that contains hundreds of chemicals. They often help the body destroy and eliminate toxins acquired from the environment of tissue-damaging substances that are by-products of metabolism.
Phytochemicals help fight or reduce free radicals in our system and have been connected to been cancer-fighting agents.
Food sources of phytochemicals are usually plant-based. Examples are garlic, ginger, onion, apples, apricots, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, legumes, red peppers, soybeans, sweet potatoes, and tomatoes etc.
While health authorities encourage consumers to eat diets rich in fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts to improve and maintain health,evidence that such effects result from specific, non-nutrient phytochemicals is limited or absent.
