Open Access
Bioactive effects of citrus flavonoids and role in the prevention of atherosclerosis and cancer
Author(s) -
Marco Giammanco,
Fulvio Plescia,
Manfredi Marco Giammanco,
Gaetano Leto,
Carla Gentile
Publication year - 2022
Publication title -
journal of biological research
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 2284-0230
pISSN - 1826-8838
DOI - 10.4081/jbr.2022.10313
Subject(s) - mediterranean diet , human health , cancer , cancer prevention , medicine , pathological , antioxidant , biology , traditional medicine , environmental health , pathology , biochemistry
Citrus fruits are the main fruits of the Mediterranean diet and have been long recognized for their beneficial effects on human health. Observational studies have shown a significant association between dietary flavonoid intake and reduced risk of cardiovascular and malignant diseases. The beneficial effects of citrus fruits on human health appear to be due to their high content in vitamins, minerals and fibers. In particular, the antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activities have been indicated as some of the mechanisms through which citrus fruits may thwart the development of chronic degenerative diseases such as atherosclerosis and cancer. This review would critically examine the results from numerous experimental and clinical studies carried out in order assess the contribute of citrus flavonoids to the prevention of chronic pathological conditions including atherosclerosis and cancer.