Phytochemicals are special substances found in plants, specifically in the pigments of plants where they are most significant. There is clear evidence that this substance can help you prevent degenerative diseases and help you live a long healthy life.

Plants and vegetables have different phytochemicals in them so it is important to eat a variety of them for you to get their full benefits.

Below is a list of foods rich in essential phytochemicals.

• Grapes - grapes preferably Red ones contains a compound know as polyphenols which is an antioxidant. This is beneficial in improving your cholesterol, help prevent cancer and cardiovascular disease.

• Oranges - they contain limonoid which is found in that white stuff you see separating each section. Limonoid is known for its antiviral, antifungal and antibacterial capability.

• Blueberries - they contain anthocyanidins, an antioxidant that can battle free radicals in your body that can damage cells.

• Dark Green Leafy Vegetables - collard greens, mustard greens, watercress, swiss chard are among the best that contains powerful antioxidants. These greens have in them carotenoids such as lutein and zeaxanthin which benefits eye sight. Plus studies have shown people who consume foods rich in carotenoids live longer and less likely to die from diseases.

• Apples - in addition to providing you with the fiber your body needs, they also contain flavanoids which is known for their antioxidant activity.

• Tomato - rich in lycopene which is also a carotenoid and lycopene is beneficial in protecting you from prostate and skin cancer.

• Walnuts - contains lots of essential fatty acids and ellagic acid which can also be found in raspberries, strawberries, cranberries and pecans as well, is also known for its antioxidant capability.

• Spices - cayanne, ginger, rosemary another great source of antioxidants.

• Mushrooms - shiitake, maitake and other Asian type mushroom contains Beta Glucan. This is special phytochemical that has been proven to help keep your immune system healthy and strong.

Many of us eat these foods already maybe with the exception of the dark green leafy vegetables but now that you know the benefits that they provide we need to be more conscious in incorporating these foods in our diet on a daily basis.

I don't know about you but I plan to a centenarian. Don't know what that is, look it up. Cheers.