Phytonutrients cause cancer cells to die

Just when you thought you'd learned everything there is to know about anti-oxidants, you may have started reading reports about phytonutrients. These are certain organic components of plants which scientists have isolated as being beneficial to human health in a different way from traditional anti-oxidants.

Phytonutrients have proven to be beneficial in many ways. They may even alter estrogen metabolism, cause cancer cells to die (apoptosis), repair DNA damage, and detoxify carcinogens by working with bodily enzymes.

Of all the phytonutrients, we probably know the most about carotenoids, the red, orange and yellow pigments found in fruits and vegetables. They can battle against certain cancers and even heart disease. Alpha- and beta- carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, and lutein, are found in carrots, leafy green and yellow vegetables, and citrus or pulpy fruits. Another cartenoid, lycopene, is found in tomatoes. There have been several studies suggesting that these compounds are among the most beneficial components of fruits and vegetables.

Polyphenols, found in strawberries, blueberries, raspberries, teas, and soybeans, appear to combat allergies, inflammation, free radicals, hepatotoxins, platelet aggregation, microbes, ulcers, viruses and tumours. Flavonoids protect the vascular system and strengthen the tiny capillaries that carry oxygen and essential nutrients to all cells.

Research into phytonutrients is expanding rapidly because it appears that they offer a measurable amount of protection against cancer and other diseases.


Note: no single food or supplement should ever be thought of a cure but rather as part of an overall healthy diet and lifestyle. For more health information see the Food For Thought web site.

See also the article 'Fish oils on prescription'