Definition
The term "Nutraceutical" is derived from "Nutrition" and "Pharmaceutical" and refers to food or food-derived substances that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
They are used for disease prevention, health maintenance, and therapy.
Characteristics of Nutraceuticals
Derived from natural sources (plants, animals, microorganisms)
Provide medicinal or therapeutic benefits
Help in preventing or managing diseases
Can be consumed as dietary supplements or functional foods
Categories of Nutraceuticals
Dietary Supplements: Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics, prebiotics.
Functional Foods: Foods with added health benefits, such as fortified cereals and probiotic yogurt.
Medicinal Foods: Foods formulated for specific diseases (e.g., medical nutrition therapy for diabetes).
Farmaceuticals: Genetically modified food products that provide therapeutic benefits.
Sources of Nutraceuticals
Plant-based: Fruits, vegetables, herbs, and spices.
Animal-based: Fish oil, dairy products, collagen.
Microbial-based: Probiotics, fermented foods (e.g., yogurt, kimchi).
