Let's talk about the added benefits of eating broccoli, berries, bananas and produce in general. "Produce comes in a rainbow of colors with each tasty gem naturally containing phytochemicals, also known as phytonutrients. In Greek the word phytomeans plant. These aren’t the chemicals like those you have to keep out of the reach of children or read the warning label before using. Some foods which are excellent sources of phytochemicals may also be referred to as functional foods--foods that are not only nutritious, but may aid in specific body function in addition to reducing the risk of cancer and or heart disease. The term functional food was first introduced in Japan in the mid-1980s and refers to processed foods containing ingredients that aid specific bodily functions in addition to being nutritious. These are found in a tall glass of thirst quenching iced tea on a hot, summer day, a plump, juicy tomato just plucked from the vine, or in your morning bowl of oatmeal."1  For a review of phytonutrients and functional foods see Chapter 2 and Chapter 6 of my book. Remember, phytochemicals in food are a good thing.

1) Kobuszewski, AM. Food, Field to Fork: How to Grow Sustainably, Shop Wisely, Cook Nutritiously, and Eat Deliciously. San Leandro, CA: AnitaBeHealthy Publishing; 2012.