About Phytonutrients

A. The term "phyto" originates from a Greek word meaning plant. Phytonutrients are certain organic components of plants thought to promote human health. Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and teas are rich sources of phytonutrients. Unlike protein, fat, vitamins and minerals, phytonutrients are not "essential" for life, so some people prefer the term "phytochemical."
Some of the most common classes of phytonutrients you might have heard of include carotenoids; flavonoids (polyphenols) and isoflavones (phytoestrogens); and lignans (also a phytoestrogen). Carotenoids are a type of antioxidant that contain the red, orange, and yellow pigments in fruits and vegetables. Flavonoids are another kind of antioxidant that helps to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol. Lignans may help prevent Type 2 Diabetes by decreasing insulin resistance, but perhaps have the most significant effect on women's health. According to numerous studies, lignans may help prevent breast cancer, balance hormones and promote fertility, and decrease symptoms of peri-menopause.