Phytonutrients, Phyto from the Greek meaning “plant” are another essential to over all health. Phyto's come from flavonoids, carotenoids, and isoflavones, normally found in the skin or rind of fruits and vegetables. You will find the flavonoids in the skin of fruits that have a red pigments, such as grapes and citrus fruits. Carotenoids come from the red, green, orange and yellow pigments found in fruits and vegetables. However, dark, green leafy vegetables are also rich in carotenoids (beta carotene) but the yellow or red pigment is masked by the chlorophyl. Isoflavones are found in nuts, legumes and soy.

Free radicals are produced when the body produces when it uses up oxygen. They can cause a lot of problems in our bodies. To fight against this you need to have the right amount of antioxidants. These include Vitamin C, A, E , Selenium and Beta-Carotene. Antioxidants also help prevent degenerative eye disease and certain types of cancer. They also help regenerate new skin cells, enhance heart health, and boost your immune system. You will find your antioxidants in carrots, cantaloups, strawberries, peaches, squash, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, broccoli, cauliflower, whole grains, and almost any fruit or vegetable you choose.

Probiotics are essence, friendly, healthy micro-organisms (bacteria). They are found in many of the foods we eat. These foods include yogurt, fermented and fermented milk, miso, tempeh, soy and some juices. Most probiotics are similar to those already normally found in your digestive system.

So, the old saying “eat your veggies”, which also covers your fruits and dairy, still stands as the rule of thumb. Eating a healthy diet of fresh vegetables, fruits, whole grains and good dairy products should cover all of the essentials needed to keep your body healthy.