Though thousands of plant compounds are thought to exist, scientists
have only studied a few. Some of
the research is centered around the colorful pigments in various fruits and
vegetables to find out what they
might have in common. Below is a
brief list of some of these compounds.
NUTRITIONAL
TERMS
PHYTONUTRIENTS:
Natural compounds that come from fruits and vegetables.
Many are being studied for their potential health benefits.
CAROTENOIDS:
A family of phytonutrients; vibrantly colored pigments found
in fruits and vegetables, mainly red, orange and yellow.
Lycopene, beta-carotene, lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids.
Research is ongoing to determine the potential link between these
phytonutrients and several chronic diseases.
FLAVONOIDS:
A class of
phytonutrients found in many fruits and vegetables.
There is interest in flavonoids for their medicinal properties,
especially their potential role in supporting the immune system, reducing
the risk of some cancers, and cardiovascular diseases, and delaying some age
related diseases.
INDOLES: Aromatic phytonutrients commonly found in nature. One important indole (indole-3-carbinol) has received recognition for its potential role in reducing the risk of some cancers.
ISOTHIOCYANATES: A class of phytonutrients found in cruciferous vegetables, such as cauliflower, cabbage and broccoli. These phytonutrients are also under study for their potential benefit as a treatment for or preventative of cancer.
PYENOLES/POLYPHENOLS:
Some research indicates that polyphenols may have antioxidant
properties with potential health benefits.
The main source of polyphenol antioxidants is nutritional, as they
are found in many fruits and vegetables.
These antioxidants may reduce the risk of some cancers and
cardiovascular diseases.
We take pride in the important role
our top quality, locally grown, farm-fresh, vine-ripe produce
plays in providing healthy food!
We hope you will develop your own ‘Rainbow of Health’
by eating a wide variety of colorful
fruits and vegetables from
Norm Lehne Garden & Orchards.
“Locally Grown, Farm-Fresh, Vine-Ripe Produce…Your Natural Choice !”