Phytochemicals present in plant foods play an important role in promoting health and protecting the body against diseases. These compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and immunomodulating properties. Including a variety of sources of phytochemicals helps improve heart health, support the immune system, and prevent chronic diseases. On a keto diet, phytochemicals can be obtained from low-carb vegetables, berries, greens, and nuts.
Phytonutrients
Centella triterpenes. Centella triterpenes are the key active compounds of gotu kola, including asiaticoside, madecassoside, and related molecules linked to the plant’s vascular and connective-tissue profile.
Chlorophyll. Antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties, detoxification, skin health support.
Echinacoside. Echinacoside is one of the characteristic phenylethanoid glycosides of echinacea and is especially useful for evaluating root material and extracts of Echinacea angustifolia and related species.
Flavonoids. Antioxidant. Strengthening the immune system, protection against inflammation, heart and vascular health.
Gymnemic acids. Gymnemic acids are the main active triterpene compounds of Gymnema sylvestre and are closely linked to the plant’s sweet-taste blunting effect and broader metabolic profile.
Gypenosides. Gypenosides are the main saponin compounds of jiaogulan and are closely associated with its adaptogenic, metabolic, and vascular profile.
Hydrastine. Hydrastine is one of the main isoquinoline alkaloids of goldenseal and serves as a practical quality marker for Hydrastis canadensis roots and extracts alongside berberine.
Indole-3-Carbinol (I3C). Indole-3-carbinol is a phytonutrient from cruciferous vegetables that is most often discussed in relation to estrogen metabolism, detoxification enzymes, and hormone-balance support. In supplements, it is treated separately from ordinary broccoli or cabbage intake.
Isoflavones. Plant polyphenols from soy, clover and some legumes can interact with estrogen receptors, but their effects depend on dose, microbiota, hormonal status and product form. Whole-food sources and concentrated supplements need different interpretation.
Lycopene. Antioxidant. Protection of cells from oxidative stress, reduction of cardiovascular diseases and some types of cancer.
Phytoestrogens. Plant compounds that mimic the action of estrogens. When there is a deficiency, symptoms (hot flashes, osteoporosis) intensify in women during menopause. They are prescribed for menopause, hormonal imbalance, and the prevention of osteoporosis.
Proanthocyanidins (OPC). Proanthocyanidins are a broad group of plant polyphenols best known from grape seeds, berries, bark, and seeds, valued mainly for antioxidant and vascular support potential.
Quercetin. Antioxidant and antihistamine. Reducing inflammation, stabilizing mast cells, supporting immunity and blood vessels.
Zeaxanthin. Zeaxanthin is a carotenoid that accumulates in the retina and supports the macula together with lutein.