Although it has been known for a while that compounds in plants contain antioxidant properties capable of protecting us from coronary conditions and cancer, it is only now becoming known just how extensive this ability may be.

Phytonutrients are an amazing discovery; fund in plants they have the ability to work with our body to improve its defense against disease and illness. More than 900 different phytonutrients have been found in plant foods already; huge advances in preventative health care and nutrition are advancing at an almost daily rate. There has been a huge number of health benefits discovered so far from many well known foods; the anti-aging power of blueberries and the effect that cherries have on reducing joint pain, are just two of the benefits found so far.

Unrecognized for many years, the properties contained in the blueberry are only just now being appreciated with many antioxidant compounds contained in a fruit with very low sugar content. Often the easiest way for people to take fruit is in juice forms which are readily available all year round; many benefits have been found including an improvement in our circulatory system and an increase in our own ability to ward of illness. Not content with helping to prevent illness, these antioxidants also help fight disease and infection. Now the focus has shifted towards apples which have an effect on the probability of coronary diseases.

You must not forget the citrus fruits either as they also contain effective phytochemicals. Anti-inflammatory agents contained in tart cherries are proving beneficial for those with joint pain like arthritis and gout. We have all been informed of the essential health benefits of certain vitamins and minerals but these are being looked at in depth as well. Another group of antioxidants called Phytoalexins (resveratrol) found in many berries can prevent infection and have anti-viral properties.

Many people with other aging conditions prevalent around the world, for instance: heart attacks, stroke and Alzheimer’s can all benefit when these compounds are used. Others found in tomatoes make this one super-food in the prevention of heart disease. Using tomato puree (which is the concentrated form of tomatoes) as the base for your chili utilizes the antioxidants without the bulk of a whole tomato. Nature has also blessed the watermelon with phytonutrients; in fact the most important discovered to date! With all the natural goodness fruit contains and now the health benefits as well, isn’t it time for you to start having more fruit in your diet.