Phytochemicals ─ Health Promotion and Therapeutic Potential

Increasing knowledge of the various protective effects of phytochemicals has sparked interest in further understanding their role in human health. Phytochemicals: Health Promotion and Therapeutic Potential is the seventh in a series representing the emerging science with respect to plant-based chemicals. Drawn from the proceedings at the Seventh International Phytochemical Conference, Phytochemicals: Health Promotion and Therapeutic Potential, the book contains chapters written by conference presenters along with those of additional invited authors whose research focuses on the biological activities and clinical outcomes associated with phytochemical consumption.

The book begins with a discussion of major research that has contributed to the widespread interest in phytochemicals and health promotion. This is followed by an exploration of the beneficial effects of polyphenols in healthy aging and against a host of illnesses and disorders, including cancer, cardiovascular disease, inflammation, and ulcers. The contributors also examine various aspects of phytochemicals related to bone and brain health, obesity, and metabolic disease. The book concludes by presenting methodologies for assessing the bioavailability of carotenoids and offers additional insight into Momordica cochichinensis Spreng, a fruit not commonly known in the Western world and a rich source of lycopene and beta-carotene.

While promising advancements have been made in this field, opportunities for progress still exist concerning bioavailability, efficacy, genomics, and synergistic mechanisms. This book is destined to stimulate increased interest in research regarding these compounds, their biological activities, and the application of these findings to therapeutic alternatives.

Colleen Carkeet, Ph.D., is a senior group leader in Global Regulatory Affairs at Amway. She leads a team of toxicologists and regulatory professionals with responsibilities in product safety, emerging technologies, and durable consumer products. Dr. Carkeet has published several papers on human metabolism of phytonutrients and B vitamins and is a member of the American Society of Nutrition.

Kerry Grann, DrPH, is a senior research scientist for nutrition investigations at Nutrilite Health Institute. Her experience in nutrition product development includes the evaluation of new ingredients and service technologies as well as critical review of the scientific literature to substantiate global product claims. Dr. Grann also manages global clinical research products that demonstrate dietary supplementation as a way to help individuals achieve optimal health.

R. Keith Randolph, Ph.D., is a technology strategist for the nutrition and beauty product lines marketed through Amway Corporation. Dr. Randolph is a distinguished expert in research for nutritional sciences and biochemistry and is an invited speaker and chair for conferences and symposia focused on nutrition, health, and nutrient–gene interactions.

Dawna Salter Venzon, Ph.D., RD, is a nutrition investigator with the Nutrilite Health Institute. Dr. Venzon has received grants to study the brain pathways responsible for hunger and satiety in female adolescents through the use of functional magnetic resonance imaging and has authored several peer-reviewed publications and book chapters on the neural processing of food rewards.

Samantha M. Izzy, BSc,is a scientist in nutrition investigation for the Nutrilite Health Institute. Her responsibilities include conducting nutrition-related research, authoring technical documents, and providing scientific substantiation for nutritional supplements designed to maintain optimal health.