Research suggests that lycopene, mostly found in tomatoes, protects against prostate and some other cancers, heart disease and diabetes. Resveratrol adds to the healthy reputation of red wine by reducing the risk of heart disease. Some plant chemicals weakly mimic the female sex hormone oestrogen, and appear to alleviate menopausal symptoms. By blocking the action of oestrogen they may also reduce the risk of hormone- sensitive breast cancer. The best known of these phytoestrogens is the isoflavone genistein, found in soya beans.
Most people are aware of the importance of dietary fibre, which reduces the risk of colon cancer.
Then there are essential fatty acids, found in oilseeds and fish oil, that lower cholesterol levels and combat blood clotting. Lactoferrin in milk promotes levels of beneficial intestinal bacteria, which in turn reduce the risk of bowel disease. Milk, traditionally considered to be bad for raising cholesterol, also contains whey proteins that stimulate the immune system and may actually prevent high blood pressure. Scientists and food companies are actively engaged in trying to modify foods to enhance levels of these substances. One group of Canadian farmers in Ottawa has formed a consortium dedicated to producing crops rich in functional compounds.