Published 2024-05-31
Keywords
- Food toxins, Cardiovascular disease, Food additives, Public healths.
Abstract
The modern food supply is increasingly contaminated with various toxins, including pesticides, herbicides, heavy metals, food additives, endocrine disruptors, and mycotoxins. These substances, although sometimes present in trace amounts, can have significant implications for cardiovascular health. Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide, and traditional risk factors such as poor diet, physical inactivity, and smoking are well-known contributors. However, emerging evidence indicates that environmental toxins present in food also play a crucial role in the development and progression of CVD. This comprehensive review explores the types of toxins found in modern food, their sources, mechanisms of action, and the scientific evidence linking them to cardiovascular diseases. By understanding these relationships, we can appreciate the importance of mitigating exposure to these harmful substances and developing effective strategies to protect cardiovascular health. The review covers the following categories of toxins: pesticides and herbicides, heavy metals, food additives, endocrine disruptors, and mycotoxins, examining their impact on cardiovascular health and suggesting future research directions.