Venketeshwer Rao
Dr. Venketeshwer Rao, Professor Emeritus, Department of Nutritional Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, has established a major focus in the area of diet and health. His research focuses on the role of phytochemicals in the prevention and management of human diseases including cancer, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. The main area of his research is oxidative stress and antioxidant phytochemicals with particular emphasis on the role of lycopene. He is credited for bringing international awareness to the role of lycopene in human health. In addition to carotenoids, his research interests also include plant polyphenols and the role of prebiotics and probiotics in human health. He has published extensively including research papers, reviews, and books. He has a distinguished academic career spanning over 52 years. He is popularly sought by the international media to express his opinions on the subjects of nutrition and health.