Vegetable Secondary Substances, Alkaline Foods And Their Positive Effects

More and more people are choosing to eat healthily. Vitamins, macro- and micronutrients are clearly the focus of food composition for most nutritionists and healthy eating societies.

But what role do secondary plant substances actually play? You can find out how these can contribute to a balanced diet here.

Difference To Trace Elements And Minerals

knew trace elements like calcium, iron or zinc. However, these are inorganic compounds that are considered essential for human nutrition. A lack of iron or calcium has been shown to have negative effects on the human body.

Secondary plant substances are accompanying substances in fruit and vegetables that are not required for maintaining the metabolism. Rather, they fulfill important functions for the plant by warding off predators or creating the typical color of the leaves and tubers. Nevertheless, some representatives of this group of substances are associated with positive effects on health in scientific studies. These include carotenoids, flavonoids, saponins and bitter substances.

Bitter Substances In Plants 

Originally, our crops contained a variety of bitter substances. Targeted breeding and selection of unwanted traits has reduced their number. But what exactly are bitter substances? This refers to chemical compounds in plants that owe their name to the typically bitter taste on the tongue. They are found in numerous plants, from cabbage to bitter oranges to fennel. From a chemical point of view, they consist of compounds of nitrogen, lipids and countless other atoms.

In nature, a lot of herbs like yarrow and wormwood also contain the bitter substances. Nutritionists associate them with digestive effects. They can stimulate the production of bile and gastric fluid. Bitter substances can also help to curb cravings.

Alkaline Foods 

The acid-base balance in our body regulates the pH value and ensures balance. In diseases such as acidosis, it is disrupted, leading to problems with the heart and kidneys. Slight disturbances in the household also lead to problems that can manifest themselves, among other things, in impure skin, problems concentrating and listlessness. That's why many people turn to alkaline foods. They are considered low in acid and rich in minerals.

But which foods are alkaline? These primarily include carrots, peas, asparagus, broccoli, potatoes and salads. When it comes to fruit, bananas, pears, figs, mangoes and peaches should be mentioned. If you want to eat an alkaline diet, you can choose from a variety of foods.Water and low-acid alkaline teas are suitable as drinks. Soups, steamed vegetables and pseudo-cereals optimally support the body with nutrients. However, you should avoid foods that produce a lot of acid. They can damage the balance of the organism.

Conclusion

The importance of bitter substances and alkaline foods for health is currently the subject of dozens of research studies. First results and the experiences of users indicate a great benefit of these nutritional elements.Equally important is a balanced diet. It is still the most important cornerstone for a healthy life.