Americans could improve their phytonutrient intake
Topping that bowl of cereal with raspberries instead of strawberries, or sauteing kale instead of spinach for dinner can boost phytonutrient intake, which may help decrease risk for certain chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, cancer and diabetes.
A study, supported by the Nutrilite Health Institute and presented at the Experimental Biology Meeting, April 25, in Anaheim, California, found that despite the availability of a wide range of foods that contain phytonutrients, many Americans are getting phytonutrients from a relatively small number of specific foods, which are not necessarily the most concentrated sources. Top food contributors for several key phytonutrient families in the diet include oranges, orange juice, carrots, grapes, garlic, tomatoes, strawberries, prepared mustard, tea and various soy products, according to the study.
“Americans could improve their phytonutrient intake by choosing to eat more concentrated sources of phytonutrients as well as a wider variety,” said Keith Randolph, Ph.D., Technology Strategist for Nutrilite. “For example, grapes are the top contributor of the phytonutrient family of anthocyanidins in most Americans’ diets, but blueberries actually contain higher amounts of this phytonutrient. Research suggests anthocyanidins support heart health,” Randolph added.
Phytonutrients are compounds that naturally occur in plants and provide a range of potential health benefits from promoting eye, bone and heart health to supporting immune and brain function. It’s widely believed that the health benefits that phytonutrients may offer come from the pigments in fruits and vegetables that give these foods their vibrant reds, yellows, greens and other rich colors. Certain fruits and vegetables contain higher levels of these compounds, making them more concentrated and potentially more effective sources of phytonutrients.
The overall goal is to encourage Americans to close their “phytonutrient gap” by increasing consumption of all phytonutrient-rich foods. Importantly, by “powering up produce” selection on a regular basis and by seeking a greater variety of fruits and vegetables, phytonutrient intakes can be increased.
“The study reiterates our earlier findings that American adults are missing out on the health benefits of fruits and vegetables by simply not including enough in their diet,” said Randolph. “Additionally, these data highlight the importance of not only the quantity, but also the significant impact the quality and variety of the fruits and vegetables you eat can have on your health. All Americans can improve their phytonutrient intake by varying the fruits and vegetables they consume and by focusing on foods that have a higher concentration of certain phytonutrients,” he added.
