Phytochemicals are chemicals found in plants. They do not provide nourishment for the body, but they do have important functions in the body, and they may protect against cancer.
Examples of phytochemicals include:
- Antioxidants
- Enzyme stimulators.
- Estrogen (phytoestrogens).
- Estrogen blockers.
- Compounds that bind potential cancer-causing chemicals.
- Suppressors of cancer cells.
Author:Jeannette Curtis
Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine
Last Updated: 05/25/2007
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