Nutrients are increasingly being recognised for their role in protecting against the toxic effects of free radicals, alcohol and other substances. At the same time, advances in food technology, the appearance of novel foods and new ingredients have generated new toxicological issues. This book discusses the role of nutrients in protecting the body against toxicants. It explores the overall importance of the metabolism of xenobiotics, and antioxidant nutrients in their role in protecting against free radicals.

This text looks at the scientific, regulatory and clinical testing and evaluation of aspartame. It illustrates the increasing recognition by regulatory agencies of the use of human studies in evaluating new food additives, and reviews how acceptable food additive daily intake levels are determined. Also covered are the clinical studies used to evaluate aspartame's anecdotal medical complaints, including headaches, seizures and allergic reactions.