Have you heard of phytonutrients?
Phytonutrients are natural chemical compounds found in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, herbs, spices, and other plant foods.
"Phyto" refers to the Greek word meaning plant.
Phytonutrients act as pigments, giving fruits and vegetables their vibrant color. They also protect plants from germs, fungi, bugs, UV rays, and other threats.
In your body, phytonutrients act as antioxidants and help prevent damage to cells throughout the body. Some may have positive effects on the immune system and hormones, while others act as antibacterial or antiviral agents.
There are more than 25,000 of these phytonutrients from different plant sources, with different benefits for your body.
Although they may differ in structure, each phytonutrient works for the same goal: reducing oxidative damage and protecting your health.
So how do you get phytonutrients?
Foods rich in phytonutrients usually have vibrant colors. However, white foods such as onions and garlic, and even olive oil are high in these nutrients as well.
Here are some of the phytonutrients you want to include in your diet:
Carotenoids
Found in yellow and orange foods like pumpkins and carrots
Antioxidant, vital for vision, growth, and immune system
Boost your intake with Shaklee's Carotomax
Flavonoids
Loads of phytonutrients are found in a variety of plant foods
Protects your cells from oxidative damage that can lead to disease
You can supplement your diet with Organic Greens Booster
Lutein & Zeaxanthin
Tomatoes, carrots, watermelon, kale, spinach
These help promote healthy vision
Boost your intake with Carotomax and Organic Greens Booster
Resveratrol
Sources include red wine, peanuts, berries, and grapes
Powerful antioxidant, promotes cell defense, energy and repair
Shaklee's Vivix is 13X more powerful than resveratrol alone
Grape seed extract
Chardonnay grape seeds
Protects cells from damage, promotes healing and healthy circulation
You can boost this phytonutrient with Mindworks
Curcumin
Found in turmeric root
A powerful antioxidant, promotes healthy brain and joints
Add antioxidant power to your day with Turmeric Boost
Allicin
Found in garlic and onions
Helps control bad cholesterol and regulates blood pressure
Increase your intake with Garlic Complex
Catechins
Found in green tea
Helps promote weight loss and helps prevent cell damage
Energize your day with Shaklee 180 Green Tea
You may also want to consider adding a scoop of Organic Greens Booster (OGB) to your favorite Life Shake™ or other beverage and try it in foods such as soups, stews or pasta. The possibilities are almost endless. OGB is also a great way to "sneak" some greens into your kids' favorite foods for a boost of phytonutrients.
It doesn't have to be complicated to get the phytonutrients you need. Think about it like eating a rainbow of colorful fruits and vegetables and have fun with it.
Thanks for reading!
Renee VanHeel
Call or text: 858-472-7295 Book a 15-minute free consultation with me. Click here
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