The rise of Nutraceuticals – Towards a brighter future

A well-balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, as well as the proper macronutrient ratio, is essential for good health. However, we do not always get enough of these important nutrients. Inadequate nutrition can cause oxidative stress, which can lead to other health problems. Nutritional research is always evolving, with discoveries and cutting-edge technologies. Nutraceuticals are one example of a breakthrough that bridges the gap between nutrition and medicine. This article explains what nutraceuticals are, the role they play in overall body health, and how to incorporate them into your diet.

What are Nutraceuticals and their types:

Nutraceuticals are food-derived supplements that provide both nutritional and medicinal benefits. Dietary supplements, herbal products, genetically engineered foods, and vitamins are examples of these products. The concentration of bioactive compounds, derived from a natural source, is very high in them. The bioactive compounds also have physiological benefits and aid in the prevention and treatment of disease. Pre- and probiotics, fortified cereals, processed foods, and beverages are all examples of nutraceuticals.

A healthy diet benefits your health by providing the nutrients which your body requires to repair, grow, and function properly. Nutraceuticals can be used as a supplement if your diet lacks these essential nutrients and vitamins. Nutraceuticals are classified into three types based on their function, food source, and bioactive components. The majority of them fall into two broad categories: dietary supplements and functional foods.

  • Dietary supplements:

Dietary supplements are products that contain concentrated bioactive nutrients from a food source that have been processed into an appropriate dosage form. These supplements may include one or more of the following ingredients: amino acids, vitamins, herbs or other botanicals, minerals, important metabolites, and specific enzymes. Dietary supplements come in tablet, capsule, powder, and liquid form, as well as gummies, energy bars, and any other suitable form. Nutraceuticals, which fall under the category of dietary supplements, not only supplement the diet but also promote health and disease prevention. Vegan protein powder from Origin Nutrition also comes under dietary supplements and can be a vital asset for vegans looking for additional nutritional sources. 

  • Functional foods:

Any food or food ingredient that provides a health benefit other than basic nutrition is considered a functional food. This category includes whole foods as well as fortified, enriched, or enhanced foods that can improve health when consumed regularly as part of a varied diet. Functional food resembles food and is available in the form of pasta, cereal, whole grains, seeds, snacks, and more.

Benefits of Nutraceuticals:

Here are the benefits of Nutraceuticals :

  • Chronic Disease Prevention remove and
  • Improve your vision and your immune system.
  • Support for Better Gut Health
  • Treat Inflammation 
  • Improve Sports Medicine
  • Enhance Your Mental Health
  • Improve your overall health to live longer.
  • Boost energy, improve sleep, and regulate bodily functions
  • Improve your skincare routine
  • Enhance mental clarity
  • Reduce your cravings

Conclusion:

Nutraceuticals are potentially safer than pharmaceuticals and can improve health naturally. Certain nutraceuticals, however, can cause side effects such as allergic reactions when combined with other nutraceuticals or therapeutic drugs. Some nutraceuticals can also be toxic. Furthermore, many people do not disclose their use of nutraceuticals to their doctors, which can lead to adverse drug-supplement interactions. Nutraceuticals have a powerful effect on your body, so it’s critical to only consume the recommended amounts.