What is a Phytonutrient?
Share
(10min Read)
PHYTONUTRIENTS?
What are they and why are they important for health and wellbeing?
Phytonutrients, derived from the Greek word "phyto", meaning plant (as they are derived exclusively from the plant kingdom) are powerful natural compounds that plants produce to defend themselves against threats like fungi, insects, and harmful UV rays. Whilst some phytochemicals (phytonutrients) can be used as poisons, there are many that have beneficial properties that can help support a healthy human body.
Found predominantly in fruits, vegetables, grains, beans, and tea, these substances are particularly concentrated in the peels of fruits and the outer leaves of vegetables. Plants need light energy to grow and synthesise phytonutrients. The more sun a plant was exposed to, the more vibrant its colour and the more of the beneficial compound it has. Research has shown that incorporating phytonutrient-rich foods into your diet can offer significant health benefits, including protection against various diseases. These compounds exhibit antiviral, antibacterial, and anti-inflammatory properties, contributing to overall well-being and disease prevention.
Discover how adding vibrant plant-based nutrients to your meals can profoundly boost your health and vitality. But where exactly should you start? Let’s dive into the incredible benefits that different categories of phytonutrient-rich foods offer.
Health benefits in Berries
Haskap berries, rich in anthocyanins, offer strong antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits that may lower the risk of heart disease and diabetes. They can enhance cardiovascular health by improving blood vessel function, reducing blood pressure, and aiding in blood sugar management for those with pre-diabetes and type 2 diabetes.
Açai berries are packed with antioxidants, including polyphenols and flavonoids, which may lower the risk of certain cancers due to their antineoplastic properties. Additionally, açai improves cholesterol levels and supports brain health by protecting against oxidative damage linked to cognitive decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
Health benefits in Cruciferous Vegetables
Broccoli is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with sulforaphane, a compound that aids in detoxifying cancer-causing substances and may reduce the risk of cancers such as lung, colorectal and prostate. Its fibre and antioxidants also support digestive health by reducing gut inflammation.
Kale, another nutritional gem, enhances heart health by increasing HDL (good) cholesterol and lowering LDL (bad) cholesterol. Rich in lutein and zeaxanthin, kale helps protect the eyes and may prevent age-related macular degeneration. Additionally, its high fibre content aids in stabilising blood sugar levels, making it a valuable food for managing type 2 diabetes.
Health benefits in Leafy Plants and Vegetables
Leafy vegetables are more than just being tasty—they're packed with incredible health benefits. For instance, Moringa oleifera leaves shine with their antioxidant and anti- inflammatory properties, offering protection against chronic conditions like heart disease and diabetes, while also helping to manage blood sugar and cholesterol levels.
Similarly, Matcha green tea, rich in catechins such as EGCG, not only provides strong antioxidant protection but also enhances mental alertness with its blend of L-theanine and caffeine and supports weight loss by boosting fat metabolism.
Meanwhile, Spinach contributes to bone health with its high vitamin K content, safeguards eye health through lutein and zeaxanthin and aids in blood pressure regulation due to its nitrate levels.
Barley grass, with its chlorophyll and antioxidants, supports detoxification, boosts immune function with vitamin C and improves blood sugar regulation by enhancing insulin sensitivity.
Health benefits in Seaweeds and Algae’s
Organic Ascophyllum nodosum seaweed is rich in iodine, supporting thyroid function and metabolic regulation, while also enhancing dental health by decreasing plaque and bacterial growth.
Chlorella is another exceptional supplement, renowned for its detoxifying properties that help eliminate heavy metals and toxins from the body. Chlorophyll offers numerous health benefits, including the reduction of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and other lipids in the body. Additionally, it can increase serum carotenoid levels, particularly lutein and zeaxanthin, which are known for their antioxidant properties and support for eye health.
Meanwhile, Spirulina offers impressive anti-inflammatory and antioxidant benefits due to its high phycocyanin content, which helps mitigate inflammation and oxidative stress. Spirulina boosts muscle strength and exercise performance, making it ideal for athletes, and supports better fasting blood glucose levels and lipid profiles in type 2 diabetes patients.
Health benefits in Roots:
Peruvian Yellow Maca Root stands out for its ability to enhance male fertility by increasing sperm count and motility, while also helping to lower blood pressure and boost mood and energy—particularly beneficial for postmenopausal women dealing with anxiety and depression.
Meanwhile, Ashwagandha Root serves as a powerful stress reliever, reducing cortisol levels and improving muscle strength, endurance, and cognitive function, making it especially valuable for older adults.
Korean Ginseng complements this by boosting energy, reducing fatigue, and enhancing both memory and cognitive performance, while also strengthening the immune system and offering antioxidative benefits for managing dementia.
Chicory Root adds to the mix by supporting digestive health with prebiotic fibre, enhancing blood sugar control and promoting stronger bones through better calcium absorption.
Lastly Beetroot, packed with nitrates and betalaine pigments, not only helps lower cancer risk and manage cardiovascular health but also boosts athletic performance.
Health benefits in Mushrooms
Cordyceps sinensis, offers a wide range of impressive health benefits. It’s been used in Chinese medicine for centuries and is known as “athletes mushroom” thanks to it’s performance enhancing benefits. It is also a great aid in immune support, and fatigue reduction, as well as kidney and lung function.
Reishi Mushrooms are renowned for their immune-modulating properties, stress reduction, and cancer support, along with improving sleep and overall well-being.
Lion’s Mane supports cognitive function and nerve regeneration, while also alleviating symptoms of anxiety and depression.
Experience a Rainbow in Every Scoop
Wondering how you can incorporate these and many other phytonutrients with the convenience of a simple to prepare one-scoop no frills, fillers or drink? That's why we created Emerald Nutrition, this green powder delivers a full coloured spectrum of phytonutrients, from vibrant reds and purples of beets and berries to the greens of leafy and cruciferous veggies. It packs in carotenoids, polyphenols, phytosterols, and more, covering a diverse range of nutrients from roots, seaweeds, and acids.
Using only the best of the best
In our formula, we exclusively use trademarked KSM-66 Ashwagandha, which utilises only the root of the plant. This method, supported by extensive scientific research and historical use, ensures the highest quality and effectiveness. KSM-66’s root-only formula is backed by major pharmacopeias and numerous studies, unlike products that include leaves, which often lack robust evidence and rely on manufacturer-sponsored research. For proven results and optimal effectiveness, KSM-66 is the clear choice.
Similarly, Haskapa stands out by using carefully selected haskap berries, processed to retain their full spectrum of nutrients. Their approach is supported by research that highlights the berries' high antioxidant and vitamin content. Unlike some competitors, Haskapa guarantees that you receive the most effective form of haskap for maximum health benefits.
Another trademarked ingredient in our formula is Organic Ascophyum Nodosum Seagreens®. This is because it ensures a high level of quality, consistency, and safety in the seaweed used for human nutrition. The trademark signifies that the seaweed has been carefully selected, harvested, and processed to meet strict standards developed over 25 years of experience. This distinction is important because very few seaweed products meet such rigorous criteria, The Seagreens® trademark assures consumers that they are receiving a premium, trusted product.
To find out more about the type, quantity and bioactive elements of each individual ingredient included in Emerald Nutrition check out the link below to our Ingredients Page.
Always remember to consult a healthcare professional before taking any supplement.
Stay well and stay healthy
Authored by Kanar Tofeq
Reviewed and edited by Julia Bloszyk