Functional Foods: Health Benefits Beyond Essential Nutrition

Eat traditional foods to get maximum health benefits. 11 Feb, 2023 Tavishi Dogra

Functional foods

Functional foods provide health benefits beyond the essential nutrition supplied by food. Source: Thehealthsite

processed foods

They can be minimally processed foods described as whole, fortified, enriched, or enhanced foods when consumed regularly as part of a varied diet. Source: Thehealthsite

In simple terms

They are foods that provide health benefits in addition to their macro and micronutrients. Source: Thehealthsite

For example

Milk fortified with Vitamin D helps with calcium absorption, which has vital functions in the body. Source: Thehealthsite

Similarly

Salts are fortified with iodine, essential for typical cognitive and developmental milestones and thyroid gland functioning. Source: Thehealthsite

Functional foods types

Functional foods are broadly separated into two categories, conventional and modified. Source: Thehealthsite

Traditional foods

Natural whole-food ingredients are inherently rich in essential elements or beneficial components, such as vitamins, minerals, probiotics, or fibre. Source: Thehealthsite

Broccoli and cruciferous vegetables

contain glucosinolates, vitamins C and K, manganese, folate, potassium, and fibre. Source: Thehealthsite

antioxidant defences

These vegetables are cardio-protective and may improve antioxidant defences. Source: Thehealthsite

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