ABSTRACT
Food is able to impact the major health defense system component of angiogenesis, the immune system, DNA protection, expression, and repair, the gut microbiome, and stem cell regeneration. Building upon molecular and cellular biology, molecular nutrition details the processes by which the body breaks down and absorbs foods and the resultant effects of nutrients on the body. This chapter discusses macronutrients, micronutrients, vitamins and phytochemicals that through molecular processes impact health and disease states. With advances in laboratory research at the molecular and cellular level and the ability to assess nutrient-driven changes in gene expression and regulation, signal transduction, and protein modifications, there is now a growing understanding about the body’s response to food consumption. Molecular nutrition can help inform decisions on how best to choose and consume a variety of health-promoting foods that make up the diet.
