Phytochemicals as Nutraceuticals
Carotenoids: α-Carotene, β-Carotene, Lycopene,
Xanthophylls, Lutein
1. Phytochemicals as Nutraceuticals
Definition
Phytochemicals are naturally occurring bioactive chemical compounds present in
plants such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes and herbs.
They are non-nutritive compounds but provide health benefits and protection
against many diseases.
When phytochemicals are used to promote health and prevent diseases, they are
considered nutraceuticals.
Important Characteristics
Produced naturally by plants as secondary metabolites.
Responsible for colour, flavour and aroma of many plant foods.
Exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
Help in protecting body cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
Improve immunity and overall health.
Present in large quantities in fruits and vegetables.
Major Classes of Phytochemicals
1. Carotenoids
2. Flavonoids
3. Phenolic compounds
4. Alkaloids
5. Saponins
6. Terpenoids
Among these, carotenoids are one of the most important phytochemicals used as
nutraceuticals.
2. Carotenoids
Definition
, Carotenoids are naturally occurring pigments found in plants, algae and some
microorganisms that give yellow, orange and red colour to many fruits and vegetables.
General Characteristics
Fat-soluble pigments
Belong to tetraterpenoid compounds (C40 carbon skeleton)
Contain long chains of conjugated double bonds
Responsible for bright colours in plant foods
Show strong antioxidant activity
Protect cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage
Types of Carotenoids
Carotenoids are classified into two major groups.
Diagram – Classification of Carotenoids
3. α-Carotene
Occurrence
α-Carotene occurs naturally in many orange and dark-green coloured vegetables.
Carotenoids: α-Carotene, β-Carotene, Lycopene,
Xanthophylls, Lutein
1. Phytochemicals as Nutraceuticals
Definition
Phytochemicals are naturally occurring bioactive chemical compounds present in
plants such as fruits, vegetables, grains, legumes and herbs.
They are non-nutritive compounds but provide health benefits and protection
against many diseases.
When phytochemicals are used to promote health and prevent diseases, they are
considered nutraceuticals.
Important Characteristics
Produced naturally by plants as secondary metabolites.
Responsible for colour, flavour and aroma of many plant foods.
Exhibit antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
Help in protecting body cells from oxidative damage caused by free radicals.
Improve immunity and overall health.
Present in large quantities in fruits and vegetables.
Major Classes of Phytochemicals
1. Carotenoids
2. Flavonoids
3. Phenolic compounds
4. Alkaloids
5. Saponins
6. Terpenoids
Among these, carotenoids are one of the most important phytochemicals used as
nutraceuticals.
2. Carotenoids
Definition
, Carotenoids are naturally occurring pigments found in plants, algae and some
microorganisms that give yellow, orange and red colour to many fruits and vegetables.
General Characteristics
Fat-soluble pigments
Belong to tetraterpenoid compounds (C40 carbon skeleton)
Contain long chains of conjugated double bonds
Responsible for bright colours in plant foods
Show strong antioxidant activity
Protect cells from oxidative stress and free radical damage
Types of Carotenoids
Carotenoids are classified into two major groups.
Diagram – Classification of Carotenoids
3. α-Carotene
Occurrence
α-Carotene occurs naturally in many orange and dark-green coloured vegetables.
