Bioactive food components for human health

There is a rapidly growing interest in the search for bioactive food components that can be used to favorably alter metabolic health. Numerous plant-derived phytochemicals have been shown to interact with DNA binding proteins to regulate tissue function. UGA food scientists are screening these compounds to identify potential health-promoting phytochemicals. They have found that polyunsaturated fatty acids from walnuts reduced total cholesterol and post-meal triglycerides. Additionally, they found that a novel, bioactive lipid from cottonseed oil prevents lipid storage in the liver by promoting fat oxidation. The results of our studies attempts to add value to U.S. commodity products; identify compounds that can be used to treat obesity and obesity-related diseases; and improve knowledge and understanding of the biochemical mechanisms of metabolic control.