Food Toxicology 2(2+0)

Lesson 2 : Fundamental Concepts

Impact of diet on the effects of toxicants

For several decades, nutritional research was concentrated on establishing a better understanding of macronutrients and micronutrients. The lack or deficiency of any specific nutrient will have devastating health effects. The lack of any specific nutrient in the diet may affect protein synthesis. It may produce membrane alteration, resulting in the loss of cellular structural integrity and changes in membrane permeability or various functional abilities of various macromolecules, which can subsequently affect the ability of the organism to metabolize various toxicants. Several nutrients have been recognized for their roles in protecting against the toxic effects of noxious chemicals such as alcohol and free radicals. Recent research has directed our attention to studying other chemicals in the diets, studying phytochemicals, and reexamining how macro- and micronutrients may modulate our response to various toxicants. Specific phytochemicals have been found to act as anticancer agents and antioxidants, and to have other potential health benefits. However, with these exciting advances in nutrition and health will arise concerns about safety and efficacy that must be addressed. Thus, with such advances, we can expect to see the field of food and nutritional toxicology at the forefront, addressing issues of mechanisms of action, risk, and safety and what is appropriate for optimal health.