Normally, nutrients such as protein, vitamins, minerals and fats are the ones we pay attention to since they are considered essential for life. Now there is a new, super nutrient to pay attention to.

Phytonutrients are nutrients supplied by the plants we eat including fruits and vegetables. They are a class of nutrients that are not considered "essential," because they are thought to be non-essential for life.

You may have heard of some of these; carotenoids, flavenoids, isoflavones, lignans and phenols being among them. They are natural detoxifiers for our bodies, antioxidants, they enhance the immune response, repair DNA damage, and even kill cancer cells.

Your best source of phytonutrients are fruits, vegetables and certain teas. Certain whole grains contain them, also.

Carotenoids are the most commonly researched. They protect against free radical damage and oxidative damage. This gives you protection against certain cancers, especially of the lung, skin, cervix, and uterine. They promote growth of healthy cells, which will replace diseased cells.

Carotenoids also help protect you from heart disease and heart attacks. They inhibit the formation of bad or harmful cholesterol. In addition, they filter harmful UV rays which may protect your skin and even protect your retinas from free radical damage.

The major carotenoids are beta-carotene, lycopene, and lutein. They are found in yellow, orange, red and green vegetables and fruits. Some of these foods include bell peppers, spinach, lettuce, carrots, tomatoes and sweet potatoes.

Another type of phytonutrients are polyphenols, which became well-known when is was found to be abundant in green tea and wine. They protect the nerves from damage and are anti-carcinogens, which means they protect you from cancers.

These phytonutrients also protect you from heart disease, lower blood pressure, and improve blood flow. They reduce internal inflammation, which is a factor in a number of degenerative diseases.

Lignans are phytonutrients found in unrefined grains, legumes, seeds and certain vegetables. These include flax seeds,sesame seeds, sunflower seeds, cashews, garlic, kale, broccoli, carrots, and cauliflower among others.

Lignans are powerful nutrients. Some studies have reported eating foods containing these phytoestrogens reduce the risk of prostate cancer, ovarian cancer and breast cancers.

Some studies have shown that lignans protect against osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease. The oils of some of these foods, such as flax oil, are believed by some to help balance the endocrine, or hormonal system.

Another category of phytonutrients are plant phenols. The scientific community believes them to be strong antioxidants. They may also protect against damage to DNA from the oxidation, which is a factor in cardiovascular disease and cancer. They are believed to interfere at every stage of cancer formation, which may reduce the overall risk.

Medical research is finally proving what mother has always told us - eat your fruits and vegetables to stay healthy and get super strong immunity. It may be that phytonutrients are more essential than you thought.