All articles tagged with #functional foods
Tokyo University of Science researchers found that combining common plant compounds (menthol, 1,8-cineole, capsaicin, and others) dramatically enhances anti-inflammatory effects in immune cells, amplifying activity hundreds of times by engaging multiple signaling pathways. This suggests everyday foods and potential functional products could better modulate chronic inflammation, though human studies are still needed.
New research from the University of Florida indicates that orange peel extracts can significantly improve heart health by inhibiting the production of harmful chemicals linked to cardiovascular disease. The study highlights the potential of repurposing orange peels, typically discarded as waste, into health-promoting ingredients for functional foods and dietary supplements.
A University of Florida study has found that compounds in orange peels can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease by inhibiting the production of harmful chemicals like TMAO. This discovery not only highlights the health benefits of orange peels but also offers a solution to food waste by repurposing them into functional foods or supplements.
While the saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" may not be entirely true, apples are considered a "functional" food due to their various bioactive substances that have health-promoting effects in the body. These bioactive substances, such as carotenoids and polyphenols, have been linked to preventing certain cancers and improving heart health. Japan was the first country to introduce the concept of functional foods, and today it has over 1,000 approved foods for specialized health uses. While eating an apple a day may not drastically reduce doctor visits, it can be a step towards a healthier diet and lifestyle.
While the saying "an apple a day keeps the doctor away" may not be entirely accurate, apples are considered a "functional" food due to their various bioactive substances that have health-promoting effects in the body. These substances, such as carotenoids and polyphenols, have been linked to reducing the risk of certain cancers and improving heart health. Japan was the first country to introduce the concept of functional foods, and today it has over 1,000 approved foods for specialized health uses. While eating an apple a day may not drastically reduce doctor visits or medication use, it can be a step towards a healthier diet and lifestyle.
Ultra-processed foods (UPFs) are now dietary staples in the UK and US, with 55% of UK adults’ daily calories coming from UPFs, mostly in the form of baked goods, confectionery, processed meats and soft drinks. UPFs are detrimental to our physical and mental health, as they are nutrient-poor and negatively impact brain health, with measurable effects on mood and cognition. The convenience of these foods means that they increasingly push more nutritious but more difficult-to-prepare foods out of our diets. A multi-faceted approach is needed to improve the food environment at every level, from the individual to the whole of society, from pre-conception to old age.