Health Benefits of Plant Foods a to Z

Nutrient	Role in health

Antioxidant	A substance that prevents oxygen-damage to cells. Antioxidants
	combat free radicals and are believed to slow the ageing process
	and help protect the body from cancer.
Anthocyanidins	See flavonoids
Beta Carotene	A form of carotenoid, beta carotene is transformed into vitamin A
	by the body.

Boron	An ultra-trace element, may be involved in hormone regulation

Calcium	For healthy bones and teeth, also essential for healthy functioning
	of muscles and nervous system

Carotenoids	A group of powerful antioxidants found in yellow and orange fruits
	and vegetables. Carotenoids may help reduce the risk of some
	cancers, may enhance the immune system and may assist in the
	prevention of cholesterol build up in the arteries.

Coumarins	A potent antioxidant found in ginger, tumeric and cardamom

Diarylheptanoids	A powerful type of antioxidant found in ginger, tumeric and
	cardamom

Dietary Fibre	Components of the diet that are not absorbed in the small
	intestine. Includes insoluble (cellulose, hemicelluloses and lignin)
	and soluble (pectin, gums and mucilages) fibres. Consuming
	adequate fibre aids digestion, relieves constipation, lowers
	cholesterol, improves diabetes and helps prevent cancer.

Flavonoids	A large group of antioxidants, part of the phenolic group of
	compounds. Evidence suggests flavonoids work as anti-cancer
	agents, and against bacteria, viruses, inflammations and allergies.
	They may also reduce clogging of arteries and help the actions of
	vitamins C and E.

Folate	A B vitamin, folate is used to make DNA and red blood cells. It
	is especially important for women of child bearing age and in the
	early stages of pregnancy to prevent neural tube defects in infants.

Gingerols	A potent antioxidant found in ginger, tumeric and cardamom

Glucosinolates	Powerful anti-cancer agents that boost the effect of other
	antioxidants.

Indoles	A type of sulphur compound involved in the suppression or
	blocking of DNA damage, and reduction of tumour size. See
	‘Sulphur Compounds’

Health Benefits of Plant Foods A to Z

Nutrient

Role in health