Chapter Physiologically Bioactive Compounds of Functional Foods, Herbs, and Dietary Supplements

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There is widespread recognition that diet plays an important role in the incidence of many diseases. Whereas basic nutrients, including vitamins and minerals, are important for growth and development, the focus of functional foods is to provide health bene ts beyond those provided by basic nutrients. Although the mechanisms are not completely clear, when eaten on a regular basis as part of a varied diet, functional foods may lower the risk of developing diseases such as cancer or heart disease.