Ebook: Carotenoids: Volume 5: Nutrition and Health

More than twenty years after the idea of this Carotenoids book series was first discussed, we finally reach the end of the project with Volume 5, which covers the functions and actions of carotenoids in human nutrition and health. In 1971, in Isler’s book Carotenoids, functions of carotenoids and vitamin A were covered in just two chapters. Now, thanks to technical developments and multidisciplinary approaches that make it possible to study functional processes in great detail, this subject is the most rapidly expanding area of carotenoid research, and occupies two full volumes, Volumes 4: Natural Functions and 5: Nutrition and Health. Although Volume 5 can be used as a single stand-alone volume, the two were planned as companion volumes to be used together. To understand the mechanisms of functions and actions of carotenoids, including how carotenoids may be involved in maintaining human health, requires understanding of the underlying principles, which are presented in the first part of Volume 4. The general philosophy and strategy of the series, to have expert authors review and analyse critically a particular topic and present information and give guidance on practical strategies and procedures is maintained in Volumes 4 and 5. It is also the aim that these publications should be useful for both experienced carotenoid researchers and newcomers to the field.

The Carotenoids book series provides detailed accounts of the fundamental chemistry of carotenoids and the basic methods used in carotenoid research, and critical discussions of the biochemistry, functions and applications of these important compounds.

The final volume, Volume 5, deals with the topic that is of greatest general interest and public concern, carotenoids in human health and nutrition. This is the era of ‘functional foods’, and identifying roles of chemical components of foods as important micronutrients. Carotenoids feature high on the list of these. Volume 5 follows the carotenoid story from food to biological actions.

Carotenoids, Volume 5 is planned as a coordinated, integrated treatment providing up-to-date and critical research surveys by leading authorities in the field, and incorporating some background material to help make the chapters accessible to carotenoid researchers who are not specialists on the particular topic.