Ideas in this flowchart

• Phytochemicals have antioxidant and other biological effects, but their benefits and toxicity remain largely unknown.
• Functions of phytochemicals
• Many phytochemicals act as antioxidants.
• Some phytochemicals mimic hormones.
• Some alter the absorption of cholesterol.
• Some inhibit inflammatory responses.
• Some block the actions of certain enzymes.
• Occurrence and scientific study
• Phytochemicals are present in small amounts in the food supply.
• Thousands of phytochemicals have been and are currently being scientifically studied.
• Their health benefits remain largely unknown.
• Their potential for toxicity is also largely unknown.
• Toxicity could be substantial if phytochemicals are taken in large amounts as supplements.