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. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science B.V. All rights reserved.