Secondary plant compounds are bioactive substances. In addition to the essential, i.e. vital nutrients (macro- and micronutrients) such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, minerals and vitamins, foods also contain so-called “anutritive ingredients”. These ingredients do not have a life-sustaining nutritive function, but are characterized by their importance for health.
Today, the term “bioactive substances” is used for such health-promoting substances. In addition to dietary fiber and the substances in fermented foods, this group primarily includes secondary plant compounds.
The total number of naturally occurring secondary plant compounds is still unknown – at least 60,000 different substances are currently assumed.
Secondary plant compounds are divided into the following categories:
- Alkaloids
- Isoprenoids (terpenes) – this includes the carotenoids.
- Polyphenols
- Plant amines – for example, indole-3-acetic acid.
- Glycosides
Secondary plant compounds perform a variety of tasks in the plant, such as protection against harmful sunlight, pests, injury and disease.
Thus, the term “secondary” should not be misunderstood by giving secondary plant compounds a subordinate role. Rather, the term stems from the fact that these phytochemicals are produced in the secondary metabolism of the plant. Many studies show that the secondary plant substances optimally complement the essential micronutrients (vital substances) in their effect and thus have an important significance for the health of the human body. Attention. According to the data available for the Federal Republic of Germany on the supply situation with secondary plant substances, the supply of men and women for beta-carotene, is not optimal.
