Antioxidants and Phytochemicals

The depth of the terms antioxidant and phytochemical definitely means job security to scientific researchers. But to us, it means that even the smallest amount of natural ingredients can make a huge health impact on our bodies.

phy•to•chem•i•cal
[fahy-tuh-kem-i-kuh l]
–noun
1. Also called phytonutrient. Any of various bioactive chemical compounds found in plants, as antioxidants, considered to be beneficial to human health.

Thank you, Dictionary.com for this detailed definition.  Now what do we do with it? It’s true, antioxidant, super food, and phytochemical have all become buzz words in the world of health.  For this, I am extremely thankful.  The public is actually catching on to the endless benefits packed in one little blueberry!  But what happens when our tongues are permanently dyed blue from eating too many berries because we think they are the only source of phytochemicals?  My educated guess is that there is a myriad of nutrients that fall under the term phytochemical.  I can’t even begin to imagine the life-giving benefits yet to unravel.

The depth of the terms antioxidant and phytochemical definitely means job security to scientific researchers. But to us, it means that even the smallest amount of natural ingredients can make a huge health impact on our bodies.

How to Get the Super Foods In

Here are a few ways to perk up your menu:

• Add a splash of fresh lemon juice to your glass of water.

• When a recipe calls for sprigs of parsley, actually use them. (I used to leave out “frivolous” ingredients like this because they were too much of a hassle to keep on hand. Boy, have my thoughts changed over the years!)

• Grow an herb garden in your back yard.  This will save you ample dollars in the long run. Plus, there is something special about using freshly-picked ingredients while cooking.

• Add onions and lettuce to your burger or sandwich.

Be creative… even the slightest addition adds immeasurable impact!

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Shana Stull, RD, LD is a registered dietitian, licensed in the State of Ohio.  Shana is the Wellness Pro for Venturepax, a company dedicated to providing local outdoor opportunities for its users.  Visit Venturepax.comto start experiencing the outdoors in Cincinnati today!

A registered dietitian is a food and nutrition expert who has met specified academic and professional requirements. However, a registered dietitian is not a doctor. Please be sure to consult with your medical doctor regarding your personal health/nutrition concerns.