Phytochemicals Prevent Cancer & Lower Cholesterol in Pets

Phytochemicals are naturally occurring substances found in fruits, vegetables and grains. Unlike vitamins and minerals, they have no nutritional value. They can, however influence various body processes. Some, such as digitalis are used to treat certain diseases. Some are antioxidants, and others may in work in different ways to prevent cancer. Some of the more well-known phytochemicals, their dietary sources and functions are listed below.

Phytochemical Family	Sources	Functions
Allyl Sulfides	onions, garlic, leeks, chives	assist in removing cancer-causing substances from the body; lower cholesterol
Indoles	broccoli, cabbage, kale, cauliflower	stimulate a number of body enzymes; reduce the effectiveness of estrogen
Isoflavones	soybeans, tofu, soy milk	inhibit the growth of some cancer cells
Isothiocyanates	broccoli, cabbage, kale, cauliflower	protect against cancer
Phenolic Acids	tomatoes, citrus fruits, carrots, whole grains, nuts, some berries	reduce genetic damage caused by carcinogens
Polyphenols	green tea, grapes, red wine	antioxidant
Saponins	beans, legumes	reduce growth of some cancers
Terpenes	cherries, peel of citrus fruit	causes tumors to regress; tumor cells become less malignant
Plant sterols	soy beans, wheat rice, vegetables, nuts, seeds	decrease the absorption of cholesterol
Flavonoids	fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds	antioxidant