Demystifying Phytochemicals: An Insight

Evidence is growing that bioactive substances found in a variety of plant-derived foods have the potential to reduce the risk of chronic diseases, such as cardio vascular disease and cancer. These substances can be categorized as: flavonoids and allied phenolic and polyphenolic compounds, terpenoids, alkaloids and sulphur-containing compounds. Much of the evidence collated to date is derived from animal studies, in vitro experiments and ex vivo studies in humans. Work should focus on their bioavailability in humans and the quantity required for their beneficial effects.