A growing number of scientific studies confirm that diet plays a crucial role in terms of health. Interest in products that will not only become a component of a balanced dietary plan but also decrease the likelihood of ailments is increasing. Functional food belongs to such category of products. Can they genuinely fulfill these promises?
General information on functional food
Functional foods are a group of natural, enriched or slightly modified foods that have a positive impact on human health. They have been shown to reduce the risk of developing diseases and improve well-being. Some of them may also be effective in the prevention of civilization diseases, which currently pose the greatest health risks. This group of products was developed in response to the increased demand for nutritious foods that help maintain the best health, as well as increase psychophysical and even physical performance. The concept of functional foods is derived mainly from the traditions of the Far East, where it is believed that there is not a big difference between medicines and food, and that proper nutrition of the body can not only maintain health, but also cure diseases. Functional foods are intended to mimic traditional foods, and their positive effect on the body should be visible after consuming a typical portion. Functional foods belong to the group of nutraceuticals, in which dietary supplements can also be found, and together they form a collection of products that complement traditional nutrition and enrich it with substances with special health-promoting properties. Functional foods can have anti-cancer effects, compensate for nutrient deficiencies, support the healing process of diseases, improve physical and mental well-being, and slow down the aging process.
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