Originally published August 17 2005
Phytochemicals decrease risk of developing disease
by Mike Adams, the Health Ranger, NaturalNews Editor
Phytochemicals found in plants can help people decrease their risk of developing diabetes and other diseases.
Phytochemicals are chemicals found in plants that protect plants against bacteria, viruses and fungi.
In people, they may decrease the risk of developing certain cancers as well as diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.
The action of phytochemicals varies by color and type of food.
� Allicin is found in onions and garlic.
Allicin blocks or eliminates certain toxins from bacteria and viruses.
Anthocyanins are found in red and blue fruits (such as raspberries and blueberries) and vegetables.
They help to slow the aging process, protect against heart disease and tumors, prevent blood clots, and fight inflammation and allergies.
� Biflavonoids are found in citrus fruits.
� Carotenoids are found in dark yellow, orange and deep green fruits and vegetables such as tomatoes, parsley, oranges, pink grapefruit and spinach.
� Flavonoids are found in fruits, vegetables, wine, green tea, onions, apples, kale and beans.
� Indoles are found in broccoli, bok choy, cabbage, kale, brussels sprouts and turnips (also known as "cruciferous" vegetables).
They contain sulfur and activate agents that destroy cancer-causing chemicals.
� Isoflavones are found in soybeans and soybean products.
� Lignins are found in flaxseed and whole-grain products.
� Lutein is found in leafy green vegetables.
It may prevent macular degeneration and cataracts and reduce the risk of heart disease and breast cancer.
� Lycopene is found primarily in tomato products.
When cooked, it appears to reduce the risk of cancer and heart attacks.
� Phenolics are found in citrus fruits, fruit juices, legumes and oilseeds.
They're thought to be extremely powerful and are studied for a variety of health benefits, including slowing the aging process, protecting against heart disease and tumors, and fighting inflammation, allergies and blood clots.
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