31^st European Nutrition and Dietetics Conference

Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals are products derived from food sources that provide extra health benefits beyond basic nutritional value. The term "nutraceutical" is a combination of "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical," highlighting the dual role of these substances in promoting health and potentially preventing or treating diseases. Nutraceuticals can take various forms, including dietary supplements, functional foods and herbal products. Here's a brief overview of key aspects of nutraceuticals

Functional Foods:- Nutraceuticals often include functional foods, which are foods with added bioactive compounds that offer health benefits beyond basic nutrition. Examples include fortified cereals, probiotic yogurt, and omega-3 enriched eggs.

Dietary Supplements:- Nutraceuticals also encompass dietary supplements, such as vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, amino acids, and other bioactive compounds, taken in concentrated forms to support health.

Health Benefits:- Nutraceuticals are believed to provide a range of health benefits, including antioxidant properties, anti-inflammatory effects, immune system support, cardiovascular health, and cognitive function improvement.

Bioactive Compounds:- The active ingredients in nutraceuticals are often bioactive compounds, such as polyphenols, flavonoids, phytochemicals, and other naturally occurring substances in plants. These compounds are thought to have positive effects on health.