What are Phytochemicals? Phytochemicals, also known as phytonutrients, are naturally occurring compounds found in plants that have potential health benefits for humans. These compounds are not considered essential nutrients like vitamins or minerals, but they may still have a positive impact on overall health. Phytochemicals are responsible for giving plants their colors, flavors, and odors, …
What are Antioxidants? Antioxidants are substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that are generated as a result of normal metabolic processes in the body, as well as exposure to environmental factors such as pollution, radiation, and cigarette smoke. When free radicals interact with …
What are Trans fats? Trans fats, also known as trans fatty acids, are a type of unsaturated fat that is formed through a process called hydrogenation. During hydrogenation, liquid vegetable oils are partially or fully converted into solid fats by adding hydrogen atoms, which changes the chemical structure of the fat. What are the benefits …
What are Saturated fats? Saturated fats are a type of dietary fat that are typically solid at room temperature. They are commonly found in animal products such as meat, butter, cheese, and other dairy products. Saturated fats are also present in some plant-based foods, such as coconut oil, palm oil, and cocoa butter. What are …
What are polyunsaturated fats? Polyunsaturated fats are a type of dietary fat that contain more than one double bond in their chemical structure. These fats are liquid at room temperature and can be found in a variety of foods. What are the benefits of omega-6s in the body? Omega-6 is an essential fatty acid that …
What are Polyunsaturated fats? Polyunsaturated fats are a type of dietary fat that contain more than one double bond in their chemical structure. These fats are liquid at room temperature and can be found in a variety of foods. What are the benefits of omega-3 in the body? Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of …
What are monounsaturated fats? A monounsaturated fat is a type of unsaturated fatty acid that contains only one double bond in its chemical structure. This double bond causes the fatty acid chain to bend, making it easier for the fat molecule to fit into cell membranes. Monounsaturated fats are often considered to be healthy fats …
What are the benefits of fiber in the body? Fiber is an essential nutrient that offers several health benefits. Here are some of the benefits of fiber in the body: What is the recommended daily intake of fiber? The recommended daily intake of fiber varies depending on age and gender. Here are the general guidelines: …
What are Complex carbohydrates? Complex carbohydrates, also known as polysaccharides, are large molecules of long chains of simple sugar units (monosaccharides) linked together by glycosidic bonds. They are found in foods such as whole grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits. Unlike simple carbohydrates (such as glucose, fructose, and sucrose), complex carbohydrates take longer to break down …
What is a simple carbohydrate? A simple carbohydrate, also known as a simple sugar, is a type of carbohydrate that consists of just one or two sugar molecules. Examples of simple carbohydrates include glucose, fructose, and galactose, which are monosaccharides (single sugar molecules), and sucrose, lactose, and maltose, which are disaccharides (two sugar molecules linked …