Contents



Preface

In recent years there has been a great deal of interest in naturally occurring bioactive compounds referred to as 'Phytochemicals' and their role in the prevention, management, and treatment of many human health disorders. This heightened interest in phytochemicals can be attributed to the global dietary recommendations to increase the consumption of plant-based foods, which are the main source of phytochemicals in our diet. The consumption of phytochemicals is now looked upon as being an important complementary approach to the use of traditional pharmaceutical compounds in the treatment and management of human diseases. Phytochemicals, also referred to as 'Phytonutrients', vary significantly in terms of their occurrence, chemistry, and mode of action. They must first be isolated, purified, and their physico-chemical properties established. Once identified, they can be studied for their mechanisms of action leading to the evaluation of their biological properties and their role in human health using in vitro, animal, and human clinical studies. Recognizing the importance of these compounds in humans, we undertook to edit and publish a book with chapters authored by internationally recognized scientists who are experts in their respective fields of research in this important area of the role of phytochemicals in human health. The chapters of the book include original research articles as well as up-to-date reviews. The book is intended to benefit researchers, health professionals, industrial scientists as well as government regulatory agencies. It is our hope that with a better understanding and knowledge of phytochemicals, we will be able to formulate guidelines as to their safety and their use in the management of human diseases and improvement of the

> **Dr. Venketeshwer Rao** University of Toronto,

Anton de Kom University of Suriname,

**Dr. Dennis Mans**

**Dr. Leticia Rao** University of Toronto,

Canada

Suriname

Canada

quality of life.
