Diet and prevention of coronary heart disease: the potential role of phytochemicals.
Epidemiological studies, and some clinical trials, demonstrate that a proper diet reduces the rate of occurrence of cardiovascular disorders. Several in vitro studies suggest that some components of plant foods, most of which sharing a phenolic structure, are endowed with interesting 'pharmacological activities'. This article reviews the evidence that links a high dietary intake of phytochemicals from various sources with a reduced incidence of coronary heart disease.
Visioli
F
F
University of Milan, Institute of Pharmacological Sciences, Via Balzaretti 9, 20133, Milan, Italy. francesco.visioli@unimi.it
Borsani
L
L
Galli
C
C
D002099:Cacao / Q000737:chemistry; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000453:epidemiology / Q000378:metabolism / Q000517:prevention & control*; D004032:Diet; D019587:Dietary Supplements; D005527:Food, Fortified; D006801:Humans; D015994:Incidence; D000069463:Olive Oil; D010636:Phenols / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010840:Phytosterols / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D010938:Plant Oils / Q000737:chemistry; D010945:Plants, Edible; D013025:Glycine max / Q000737:chemistry; D013662:Tea / Q000737:chemistry; D014920:Wine
D000069463:Olive Oil; D010636:Phenols; D010840:Phytosterols; D010938:Plant Oils; D013662:Tea