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WHAT ARE PHYTOCHEMICAL NUTRIENTS?

While modern science has added wondrous treatments and technologies to the disease-fighting arsenal, Phytochemical Nutrients are the most amazing and effective tools for fighting disease. But what are Phytochemical Nutrients?

Oddly enough, this seemingly innovative tool is nestled in the produce section of our grocery stores, and some may be located in your very own backyard. Parents have prodded and bribed their children for generations to eat more of them … fruits and vegetables. Yep! While these edible delights are known for essential good health, they do more than just provide basic nutrition. Recently, science has established that Phytochemical nutrients are naturally occurring biochemicals that give plants their color, flavor, Phytochemicals are more than recommended for the human diet, they are a medicinal and protective need! texture and smell. In fact, Phytochemical foods help prevent diseases that are responsible for over 60% of all deaths in the USA.

In 1900, only 20% of all deaths in the US occurred from heart disease, cancer or stroke. By the late 1990s, the percentage of deaths by these three diseases has jumped to over 60%! Why? Because we are consuming less natural foods (especially Phytochemical nutrient enriched foods) and more processed and sugary junk/fast foods.

Phytochemicals, by definition, are chemicals that are naturally produced by plants. The term is currently used to refer to health-related effects, but sadly are not considered by some to be “essential,” like that of vitamins, minerals, carbohydrates, proteins and fats. However, as scientists delve more into the benefits of Phytochemical nutrients, they are discovering that Phytochemicals are very much an essential element in our diet. These nutrients are critical defenses against bacteria, fungi, viruses and damage to cell structure (especially DNA and RNA). In the 1970s, a “Phytochemical Revolution” swept our country with the focus on the role of these valuable nutrients as a cancer-fighting aid.* Today, we also see the critical value in controlling some symptoms and disease states, such as: cholesterol (leading cause of cardiovascular disease), stroke, birth defects, some cognitive disorders, and inflammatory and other auto-immune symptomatic disorders.

In summary, Phytochemical nutrients have always been a valuable resource to our bodies, but with more research, we are discovering that perhaps the parental preaching “eat your fruits and veggies!” has not only aided in controlling potential diseases, but may just be the “fountain of youth” we all seek!

*”Molecular Expressions: The Phytochemical Collection” as of March 23, 2003 http://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/phytochemicals/

While Phytochemical foods are enriched with various vitamins, minerals and antioxidants (such as tomatoes, celery, broccoli, oranges, strawberries, green leafy veggies, soybeans and the list goes on!), nutritional supplementation contains many of the valuable nutrients extracted from these natural and medicinal foods.

The Phytochemical Nutrients:

Lycopene, Lutein & Zeaxanthin

These three anti-disease nutrients are also powerful antioxidants that are classified as Phytochemicals because of their color, texture and smell. Naturally found in foods, these antioxidant fighters can help our bodies in numerous ways.

Lycopene is found in tomatoes, red grapefruit, apricots, guava and watermelon. Lycopene is a red and pink colored carotenoid which can prevent oxidation of LDL (or bad cholesterol), and is one of the most potent oxygen-quenching of all the common carotenoids.* Studies conducted in 1998** have shown that at least 40 mg of Lycopene consumption a day can substantially reduce the risk of low density lipoprotein (or LDL), the key component responsible for cardiovascular disease. More recently, it has been discovered that the powerful antioxidant Lycopene, may be a cancer preventive agent. While Lycopene is good for everyone, it is especially helpful to males, as Lycopene greatly assists in the fight of prostate cancer. Ongoing research suggests that Lycopene can reduce the risk of macular degenerative disease, serum lipid oxidation and other cancers of the lung, bladder, cervix and skin.***

Lutein, also a phytochemical nutrient and antioxidant, is the green carotenoid found in many fruits and vegetables, especially dark veggies and greens (spinach, mustard greens, broccoli, etc.). Prominent studies conducted in 1999 – 2000‡, have found Lutein and Zeaxanthin to be of critical assistance in the fight against macular degenerative disease, as well as other eyesight disorders, such as cataracts and glaucoma. Other studies mentioned from the same article suggest Lutein can aslo assist in the fight against breast and cervix cancers and possibly colon cancer. Because of it’s strong antioxidant nature, studies indicate Lutein may also help prevent cardiovascular disease and skin cancer.

Zeaxanthin, the yellow phytochemical nutrient and antioxidant agent is also lipid-soluble and a derivative of beta-carotene. This strong antioxidant is one of two yellow carotenoids found in the retina (the back region of the eyeball). Naturally found in foods such as spinach, collard greens and corn, Zeaxanthin acts as a shield to filter out harmful blue light (ultraviolet UV - sunlight radiation) from the eyes. Various independent research studies*** have indicated that Zeaxanthin can be of great assistance in the fight against AMD (age-related macular degenerative disease). Like it’s counter part Lutein, the antioxidant power of Zeaxanthin can also assist in the fight against various cancers and cardiovascular disease.

*”Versatile Health Benefits of Lycopene” McCarty, Mark F., Pantox Laboratories, San Diego, CA, 1999-2000 study, http://www.pantox.com/FONT/P

**”Lycopene: The Ultimate Phytochemical Nutraceutical?” John C. Leffingwell, PhD, Independent Studies http://www.leffingwell.com/FONT/P

***”Molecular Expressions:Phytochemical Gallery-Lycopene” Michael W. Davidson and the Florida State University, Independent Studies, 1995-2003 studies, http://micro.magnet.fsu.edu/phytochemicals/index.html/FONT/P

‡”Benefits of Lutein (and Zeaxanthin)” various independent studies (1999-2001) as reported by http://www.helpeyes.com and http://www.jcrows.com/lutein.html/FONT/P

Phytochemical Nutrient:

Phaseolamin Decreases Starch Absorption

What’s the new rage in protein products to hit the market? The starch neutralizer, Phaseolamin 2250®, otherwise known as Phase2 Starch NeutralizerÔ. This natural starch-buster, a Phytochemical nutrient, comes from the Northern white kidney bean. Oddly enough, the portions of the white bean’s natural ability to decrease the absorption of starch has actively been studied since the early 1940’s when scientists discovered the bean’s natural capability to act as an inhibitor of animal alpha-amylases (i.e., starch proteins)!

In 1974, J. John Marshal and Carmen M. Lauda purify a proteinaceous inhibitor of alpha-amylase from kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris), which they named Phaseolamin™. In the 1980’s, crude bean powder was being further studied in the Mayo clinic. These studies indicated this magical Phytochemical nutrient prevented much of the animal alpha-amylase activity in the small intestine from being fully absorbed that would otherwise transfer to starchy fat storage in the body.

By 2000, an independent in-vitro test conducted by Lycoming Laboratories indicated that Phaseolamin 2250®, a standardized extract made from a portion of the Northern white kidney bean (Phaseolus vulgaris) is capable of neutralizing the absorption of 2,250 starch calories per gram (hence the name Phaseolamin 2250®)! And again by 2001, two breakthrough studies showed that starch absorption averaged a whopping 79% less in those who consumed Phaseolamin 2250®*. Further studies indicated that human participants who were studied in a 30-day period, lost an average of 6.45 pounds, 10% body fat mass and 3% waist circumference, as well as, measurable percentages off hips and thighs while consuming Phase2 Starch NeutralizerÔ.

Beverage products containing Phaseolamin are fast becoming the drink of choice to assist many with controlling carbohydrate absorption. These innovative beverages are helping several individuals with metabolic issues and lifestyle changes. Because of Phaseolamin’s natural binding power to floating carbohydrates, this vegetable fiber is also becoming a favorite amongst dieters and diabetics, due to it’s inhibitor nature to block starches.

*Joe A. Vinson, PhD and Donna M. Shuta, BS, Dept of Chemistry, University of Scranton, Sept. 6, 2001 and Nov. 20, 2001 studies. http://www.phase2info.com/news-jan312002.html/P

*Dr. R. Ballerini, managing director of Pharmaceutical Developments and Services srl., Milano, Italy, Sept. 7, 2001 study. http://www.phase2info.com/news-jan312002.html/P

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Biometics’ unique blend of water-soluble and botanical-enriched antioxidant formula, CELL CARE contains Lycopene, Lutein and Zeaxanthin, as well as balance of other important nutrients and supports complete cellular protection against the damaging effects of aging and pollution.Biometics is the best supplement solution for maximum absorption of the vital nutrients your body needs everyday. Click here to find out how to improve your energy and health today!!!

The information on this web site is intended for information reference purposes only and is not intended as a substitute to professional medical advice. Prior to participating in any exercise program or activity, it is recommended that you seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care professional. None of the information on this web site should be used to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any medical condition.