We commonly hear fruits and vegetables referred to as “power foods” such as kale, acai berries, pomegranate, quinoa, etc. So what makes them so powerful? No, unfortunately they don’t give you super powers like the ability to fly or read minds but they do give you all the wonderful vitamins, minerals, fiber and phytochemicals needed to support and optimize your health.
Link to video HERE.
Phyto-Whaa??
Phytochemicals are chemicals naturally found in plant sources that have protective or disease preventing properties. Phytochemicals are what give fruits and veggies their color, Ex: flavonoids produce a blue color found in blueberries. There are different types of phytochemicals that each play a different role in our health. Have you heard the phrase: Eat the Rainbow? (and we are NOT talking about the skittles rainbow). Eating a variety of different veggies and fruits of all shapes and colors will ensure that we get all the different vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals we need for our body to feel it’s best.
Here are some of the different health benefits of phytochemicals:
- Antioxidant- They protect our cells against damage and reduce the risk of developing cancer.
- Anti-inflammatory- Decreases inflammation which is the key risk factor for chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
- Enzyme Control- Phytochemicals can stimulate or reduce enzyme activity which can in turn reduce the risk of some cancers and improve functions such as memory and eye sight. Enzymes are proteins that help carry out all the metabolic processes in our body.
- Antibacterial Effect- Some phytochemicals can bind to cell walls to prevent bacteria from adhering
So your parents weren’t just trying to trick you into eating your fruits and veggies to be mean. They really do play an important role in our health as our bodies’ line of defense.
Power up with phytochemicals and nourish your body, mind and soul!
Be well,
Serena & Sally
P.S. The 30Day Reset enrollment period is open and waiting to you! If you want to reenergize, revitalize and reset your body lots of nourishing foods, support from an amazing community and lots of soul food in the form of daily information. Enroll today!
