Chapters authored
Food as a Dietary Source of Melatonin and Its Role in Human Health: Present and Future Perspectives
Melatonin is a neurohormone produced and released by the pineal gland. Neurons placed in the eye surface send a signal when the person is exposed to darkness to the suprachiasmatic nuclei and that prompts melatonin release. This biomolecule is in charge of synchronizing body circadian rhythms such as sleep or hunger. Intense light exposure can avoid its release or healthy rhythm. Apart from that, the scientific literature has suggested that melatonin influences immune system, antioxidant capacity, or cell preservation. Moreover, melatonin can be supplied by dietary food such as grapes, dairy or fermented products. Interestingly, some foods contain a significant amount of melatonin and can be considered as good sources of that bioactive molecule. The information in this chapter will cover melatonin dietary sources, biological capacity, related metabolites, and proven benefits in the human body.
Part of the book: Current Topics in Functional Food
Ginger in the Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases
Ginger, Zingiber officinale, is a member of the Zingiberaceae family, used in traditional medicine for treatment of a variety of conditions. Many pharmacological activities have been reported for this plant (anti-inflammatory, anti-tumorigenic, anti-apoptotic, anti-hyperglycemic, cancer-chemopreventive, and anti-lipidemic). Cardiovascular disease, which includes coronary artery disease, acute myocardial infarction, peripheral arterial disease, and stroke, is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. In recent years, several studies have described that ginger can control or improve some cardiovascular risk factors such as cholesterol levels, hypertension, or atherosclerosis. The aim of the present review is to summarize the effects of ginger bioactive compounds on cardiovascular diseases.
Part of the book: Current Topics in Functional Food