Phytonutrient supplements contain extracts of specific nutrient compounds, such as lycopene, beta-carotene and isoflavone, which are found in fruits, vegetables and other plants.
Significance
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, less than half of Americans consume the minimum daily recommendation of vegetables. Phytonutrient supplements may help people who do not eat enough fruits and vegetables by providing the health benefits associated with eating plants.
Benefits
Phytonutrient supplements help the body repair damaged cells, keep the heart healthy by decreasing LDL cholesterol levels, and increase immune system functionality.
Considerations
According to William Sears, MD, people should not rely entirely on supplements to get the full range of phytonutrients that are essential for a healthy body. (Ref. 1.) People who are taking a phytonutrient supplement should still eat vegetables and fruits.
Quality Control
Phytonutrient supplements are not standardized in regards to the concentration of specific phytonutrients. Some supplements contain freeze-dried portions of vegetables, which contain less phytonutrients than a standard whole food serving.
Controversy
Phytonutrients are also commonly referred to as phytochemicals. The organic compounds they contain are not considered to be essential nutrients that the human body needs to function.
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