AFAA Personal Trainer Certification Practice Exam

Which substances do plants manufacture that are not classified as vitamins or minerals?

1. Anti-nutrients

2. Phytonutrients

3. Enzymes

4. Amino acids

The correct answer is: Phytonutrients

Plants manufacture phytonutrients, which are bioactive compounds not classified as vitamins or minerals. These substances are important for human health as they possess antioxidant properties and may contribute to the prevention of various diseases. Phytonutrients can be found in a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes, playing significant roles in plant health as well as providing various health benefits when consumed by humans. Anti-nutrients, while present in plants, typically refer to compounds that can interfere with the absorption of nutrients and are not beneficial components like phytonutrients. Enzymes are proteins that catalyze biochemical reactions but do not fall under the category of substances uniquely manufactured by plants for health benefits outside of the vitamin and mineral classifications. Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins but are not considered secondary metabolites or phytonutrients. Thus, among the options provided, phytonutrients stand out as beneficial substances distinctly produced by plants outside the classifications of vitamins and minerals.