What are Functional Foods?
Functional foods are foods that offer benefits beyond basic nutrition. They are designed to promote health and well-being by providing additional nutrients or bioactive compounds. These foods may help in reducing the risk of chronic diseases, enhance physiological functions, or improve overall health.
Examples of functional foods include fortified products, such as orange juice enriched with calcium, probiotics found in yogurt, and omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish. These foods are often studied for their potential health benefits, which may include improved digestion, enhanced immune response, and better heart health.
The concept of functional foods is rooted in the idea that food can play a direct role in maintaining and improving health. This has led to the development of a wide range of novel food products aimed at specific health outcomes. Nutritionists often advocate for consuming a diet rich in functional foods to support overall health and wellness.
It is important to note that while functional foods can offer health benefits, they are not a substitute for a balanced diet and should be consumed as part of a holistic approach to health. Incorporating a variety of functional foods into your daily meals can help you achieve optimal health and well-being.