Clinical Nutritionist Practice Test 2025 – The All-in-One Guide to Master Your Certification!

Phytonutrients are naturally occurring compounds found in plants that play a significant role in supporting health and preventing chronic diseases. One of the key ways they contribute to this is by offering antioxidant protection. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals—unstable molecules that can cause oxidative stress and damage to cells. This oxidative stress is linked to the development of various chronic diseases, including heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. By scavenging these free radicals, phytonutrients can help reduce inflammation and improve overall cellular health, contributing to a lower risk of chronic disease.

The other options do not accurately reflect the role of phytonutrients. Increasing inflammation is counterproductive to chronic disease prevention; instead, many phytonutrients are known for their anti-inflammatory properties. Phytonutrients do not provide essential vitamins exclusively; while they may complement vitamin intake, they serve broader roles in health. Lastly, while some phytonutrients may improve fiber intake when present in whole plant foods, their benefits extend beyond just fiber, encompassing a wide range of protective actions that are crucial for chronic disease prevention.