ABSTRACT
This chapter focuses on the organs, the functions of which could be influenced by excessive or inadequate nutritional and personal behaviour factors. It identifies dietary factors which influence the development of atherosclerosis and its impact on organs through disordered blood flow. A plant-based dietary pattern with biologically varied sources of dietary fats and other food components characterised by fruit, nuts and vegetables can aid prevention and management of cardiovascular disease. The chapter explains how nutritional and non-nutritional factors contribute to disordered function, structure or health of muscles, teeth and gums by reference to nutritional biology and ecohealth concepts in general. A good diet is essential for the development and maintenance of healthy teeth, and healthy teeth in turn are important in enabling the consumption of a varied and healthy diet throughout the life-course. Oral hygiene, a relatively unrefined diet and, probably, an optimal fluoride intake reduce the risk of tooth loss and chewing disability.
