What are phytochemicals?

Phytochemicals are naturally occurring compounds found in plants that have been shown to provide various health benefits. They are not essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals but play a significant role in preventing illnesses and promoting overall health. These compounds can be classified into different categories based on their chemical structure, such as flavonoids, carotenoids, and polyphenols, each possessing unique properties that contribute to human health.

Research has indicated that consuming a diet rich in phytochemicals may help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, by promoting antioxidant activity, enhancing immune function, and reducing inflammation. These beneficial effects are primarily derived from the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds, which are abundant in phytochemicals.

In contrast, the other choices present inaccurate or unrelated definitions. Artificial additives refer to synthetic substances used in food manufacturing, while vitamins and minerals are crucial nutrients but do not fall under the category of phytochemicals as they are not plant-derived compounds. Genetically modified organisms involve alterations to the genetic makeup of organisms and are not specifically defined by the presence of phytochemicals. Therefore, the correct understanding of phytochemicals as natural plant compounds with health benefits