“Health A to Z”

“Health A to Z” – P

October 22nd, 2009 · No Comments

The Letter P

Phytochemicals

The active health-protecting compounds that are found as components of plants.

Currently, the terms “phytochemical” and “phytonutrient” are being used interchangeably to describe those plant compounds which are thought to have health-protecting qualities.

The antioxidant, immune boosting and other health promoting properties of active compounds in plants are being investigated. Phytonutrients or phytochemicals that are being studied presently include (and are not limited to) terpenes, carotenoids, limonoids, and phytosterols.

Pomegranate

Pomegranates contain tons of nutrition… and best of all, it’s low in calories. In just one pomegranate fruit there is around 100 calories. But that’s only the beginning of the nutrition pomegranate provides:

a great source of potassium
more antioxidants compared to other juices and even wine!
vitamin B and Vitamin C
great source of fiber
helps prevent heart disease
keeps your immune system in top notch conditions
prevents buildup of material in your arteries

Pomegranates are a superfood!

Prebiotics & Probiotics

Prebiotics and probiotics can restore the balance of bacteria in your digestive tract. Probiotics are beneficial bacteria that can be found in various foods. When you eat probiotics, you will add these healthy bacteria to your intestinal tract. Common strains include Lactobacillis and Bifidobacterium families of bacteria.Prebiotics are non-digestible foods that make their way through our digestive system and help good bacteria grow and flourish. Prebiotics keep beneficial bacteria healthy.