These days there are a lot of “buzz words” when it comes to nutrition. Science has found an great quantity of nutrients that were not recognized before. It is simple to get befuddled when you hear such words as phytonutrients, polyphenols, carotenoids, anthocyanins and Omega fatty acids. What do they all mean?

Food is classified into the macronutrients of fat, protein and carbohydrates. Most people know this and most people are also aware of the vitamins such as A, C, E, D and B complex and minerals like calcium, zinc, chromium and magnesium. But there are hundreds of other healthful substances that have been dubbed as “micronutrients”. Micronutrients are vital in much lesser quantities but they are still important. They include polyphenols, phytonutrients, carotenoids, anthocyanins and Omega fatty acids.

A phytonutrients is a non-vitamin, non- mineral, organically occurring factor of foods that offers major health benefits. Significant types of phytonutrients include polyphenols, carotenoids, anthocyanins and phytoestrogens.

Polyphenols are a group of antioxidant. They were formerly referred to as vitamin P but further research confirmed that these substances are incredibly diverse from a conventional vitamin. Polyphenols have antiallergenic and anti-inflammatory properties. Polyphenols are found in berries, red wine, coffee, dark chocolate, pomegranates and more.

Carotenoids are found in the orange foods such as pumpkin, carrots, apricots, sweet potatoes and tomatoes. It is really the orange-red pigment that lends the bright colors to these foods. Carotenoids are a vitamin A precursor, which means that our bodies are able to make vitamin A from them. Carotenoids protect us from the harmful effects of aging and many cancers.

Anthocyanins are the deep blue to purple pigment that gives blueberries, blackberries, strawberries, red cabbage and more their deep, brilliant colors. Anthocyanins can provide possible health effects against aging and neurological diseases, cancers, inflammation, diabetes and bacterial infections based upon laboratory substantiation.

Omega fatty acids are considered to be essential fatty acids because our bodies cannot produce them and they must be provided by our diet. They include Omega 3, Omega 6 and Omega 9. Our bodies require a positive ratio of 1:1 for these vital fats, but the modern day diet provides very little Omega 3 and excessive amounts of Omega 6. It is crucial to supplement Omega 3’s or consciously add foods that are high in Omega 3’s to our diet. Omega 3 fatty acids are important for healthy membranes and the appropriate development of the eyes, a strong cardiovascular system and a strong immune system.

Science is uncovering ever more benefits with these vital micronutrients every day. In order to make sure that you get these critical nutrients you need to eat a assortment of healthful foods every day.

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Tags: Nutrition

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