Smoothie #2: Prebiotics, Phytochemicals, "Anti-Nutrients" & Hydrolyzed Collagen
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Plant Compounds
explores the unique benefits of plant hormetic compounds, which differ from traditional micronutrients. These compounds, found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, are slightly toxic and trigger beneficial stress responses in cells, enhancing the body's ability to manage stress. highlights isothiocyanates, particularly from kale and broccoli sprouts, known for their potent anticancer properties.
Consuming a diverse array of vegetables and fruits to obtain a diverse amount of micronutrients is pretty intuitive. What may not be as intuitive is that these vegetables and fruits also have a multitude of plant hormetic compounds which are slightly toxic to humans and therefore activate a variety of genetic pathways that help the body and the brain deal with stress better.
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These compounds activate detoxification enzymes, reducing inflammation and DNA damage 1 2.
Cancer Prevention
The role of plant hormetic compounds in cancer prevention is significant, as explains. Isothiocyanates, found in cruciferous vegetables, inhibit enzymes that convert procarcinogens into carcinogens, while activating detoxification enzymes that protect DNA. also discusses luteolin and apigenin, found in celery and parsley, which reduce inflammation and promote neural health.
Isothiocyanates have been shown to be very potent at preventing cancer initiation, both in animal studies and in human studies.
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These compounds not only prevent cancer but also support cognitive function and memory 2 3.
Cognitive Benefits
Plant hormetic compounds also offer cognitive benefits, as highlights. Luteolin and apigenin, present in celery and parsley, enhance memory and learning by promoting neuron formation and connectivity. Blueberries, rich in anthocyanins, activate genes involved in inflammation and antioxidant activity, potentially preventing cognitive decline.
Older mice that were fed a diet high in luteolin had brains that cognitively functioned much like their young counterpart.
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These compounds, along with others like terostilbine in blueberries, improve cognitive function and protect against age-related decline 2 4.