Health Benefits of Plant Foods A to Z continued

Iron

A mineral needed for the production of red blood cells and

 

muscles. Iron carries oxygen around the blood and is best

 

absorbed from animal sources.

Lignin

A ‘woody’ type of insoluble fibre. See ‘Dietary Fibre’.

Lycopene

A type of carotenoid that may help to prevent cancers of the

 

prostate, stomach and pancreas.

 

 

Lutein

A type of carotenoid that has been shown to protect the

 

degeneration of eyesight.

 

 

Luteolin

A type of flavonoid found mainly in citrus fruits.

 

 

Magnesium

A mineral important for the healthy functioning of enzymes and

 

muscles.

 

 

Menthol

Derived from the volatile oil of peppermint.

 

 

Niacin

A B vitamin used to release energy from food and deliver it to cells

 

in the body.

Oligosaccharides

A form of carbohydrate, unavailable for absorption in the small

 

intestine. Oligosaccharides are fermented by bacteria in the large

 

intestine and in large doses may cause wind.

Papain

An enzyme that assists with protein digestion

 

 

Pectin

A type of soluble fibre that helps reduce blood cholesterol levels

 

and regulate blood sugar levels. See ‘Dietary Fibre’.

 

 

Phenolics

A large group of chemical compounds found in a wide range

 

of foods. Includes a range of antioxidants such as flavonoids,

 

catechins and anthocyanins.

 

 

Phosphorous

A mineral essential for healthy bones and teeth and also plays a

 

role in the body’s energy, protein and genetic make up.

 

 

Potassium

A mineral essential for healthy functioning of muscles and the

 

nervous system. Potassium may assist in the regulation of blood

 

pressure.

Protein

A macronutrient essential for the growth, development and repair

 

of healthy cells.

 

 

Resveratrol

A phenolic compound with a powerful anti-cancer effect. See

 

‘Phenolics’.

 

 

Riboflavin

A B vitamin, riboflavin is involved in energy production. It is also

 

needed for healthy skin, hair and nails.

 

 

Sulphoraphane

A type of sulphur compound, similar to indole that is involved in

 

blocking or suppressing DNA damage and reducing the size of

 

tumours. See ‘Sulphur Compounds’.

 

 

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Sunbeam JS7300 manual Health Benefits of Plant Foods a to Z