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The purpose of the paper is to explore the current knowledge on the nutritional evaluation, cholesterol-lowering effect and antitumor activity of kimchi and its ingredients(Korean cabbage, garlic, red pepper powder, ginger and onion). Kimchi contains high contents of nutrients such as vitamins(ascorbic acid, β-carotene and vitamin B complex), minerals(calcium, potassium, iron and phosphorous), essential amino acids and dietary fiber. Kimch also contains high levels of lactic acid bacteria, allicin, capsaicin, organic acid, phenol compounds, flavonoid and sulfur compounds. The dietary fiber and lactic acid bacteria isolated from kimchi are effective in improving intestinal microflora of human. Isoluble dietary fiber shows anticancer activity, but soluble dietary fiber shows hypocholesterolemic effect. Lactic acid bacteria isolated from kimchi acts as a hypocholesterolemic or anticancer agent. A major ingredient of kimchi is mainly cruciferous and allium family vegetables, which were also reported to prevent cancer and atherosclerosis. It is suggested that kimchi is important not only as one of the traditional fermented Korean food but also as therapeutic agent for carcinogenesis and hypercholesterolemic state.
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