Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Nutraceuticals, healthy food or medicine
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Subtitle: a review
Original source:
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Swati Rawat
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Nutraceuticals, healthy food or medicine
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20229-24742
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Nutraceuticals, a fusion of "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical," serve as products derived from food sources that offer both nutritional and medicinal benefits. The concept has gained prominence due to the growing shift towards natural supplements as alternatives or complements to traditional pharmaceuticals, especially in light of the side effects often associated with modern drugs. This review article explores the definition, regulation, and potential applications of nutraceuticals across various health conditions, emphasizing their role in enhancing overall wellness and preventing chronic diseases.
Nutraceuticals: Definition and Origins
A nutraceutical is defined as a substance that provides physiological benefits or protection against chronic diseases. Although the specific definition can vary across countries without a widely accepted global standard, nutraceuticals encompass a range of products, including dietary supplements, functional foods, and herbal products. This concept is not new; it can be traced back to ancient practices where food was utilized for medicinal purposes. The term "nutraceutical" was coined in 1989 by Dr. Stephen De Felice, who characterized it as food or parts of food that offer health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of diseases.
Nutraceuticals in Disease Management
Nutraceuticals have emerged as valuable tools in the management and prevention of various health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and diabetes. For example, specific compounds, such as flavonoids, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants, have shown promise in addressing issues like heart disease and cancer by exhibiting anti-inflammatory and protective properties against oxidative stress. Research indicates that a diet rich in these bioactive compounds can significantly lower the risk of developing chronic conditions and improve overall health outcomes.
Regulation and Use in India
The regulatory framework surrounding nutraceuticals varies by country, with India still grappling with implementing comprehensive guidelines. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) is working on standards outlined in the Food Safety and Security Act of 2006, which aims to define what constitutes a nutraceutical product. As the nutraceutical market grows, there is an increasing demand for transparency and quality assurance, particularly as consumers seek safe and effective health solutions. Understanding the regulations will be crucial for both manufacturers and consumers navigating this expanding market.
Conclusion
The burgeoning interest in nutraceuticals reflects a broader shift towards preventive healthcare and the use of natural products to enhance well-being. As research continues to unfold, highlighting the efficacy and safety of various nutraceuticals, individuals may find effective strategies for managing health and preventing disease through dietary means. While regulations are evolving, increased consumer awareness and scientific validation of these products could solidify their role as essential components in health promotion and disease prevention strategies.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are nutraceuticals and their role in health?
Nutraceuticals are derived from food sources providing health benefits, aiding in disease prevention and treatment, and improving overall well-being.
How do nutraceuticals differ from dietary supplements?
Nutraceuticals include ingredients that provide medicinal benefits, while dietary supplements primarily enhance nutritional intake.
What are some common types of nutraceuticals?
Common nutraceuticals include ginseng, Echinacea, omega-3 fatty acids, and green tea, each offering various therapeutic properties.
How can nutraceuticals help in disease prevention?
Nutraceuticals contain antioxidant properties that can help prevent diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes.
What is the significance of phytochemical screening in nutraceuticals?
Phytochemical screening identifies, extracts, and characterizes bioactive compounds, ensuring quality control and confirming therapeutic efficacy for safety.
How do regulations impact the nutraceutical industry in India?
Regulations set standards for ingredient formulation and safety, critical for the growing nutraceutical market in India under the FSSAI.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Nutraceuticals, healthy food or medicine”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Disease:
Diseases are conditions that impair normal functioning of the body or mind. The use of nutraceuticals aims to address various diseases by supporting health, enhancing physiological functions, and preventing disease occurrence, thus underscoring the importance of diet in disease management.
2) Food:
Food encompasses any substance consumed by living organisms for nourishment, providing essential nutrients. Nutraceuticals, derived from food sources, blend dietary intake into health improvement and disease prevention, bridging nutrition and health promotion, thereby enhancing quality of life.
3) Cancer:
Cancer is a severe disease characterized by uncontrolled cell growth. Nutraceuticals, due to their bioactive compounds, have shown potential in cancer prevention and treatment, offering an alternative approach that may complement conventional therapies and mitigate side effects.
4) Medicine:
Medicines encompass substances used for therapeutic purposes. The evolution of nutraceuticals as a category emphasizes their potential role as complementary or alternative medicines in treating health conditions sustainably.
5) Activity:
Activity, particularly in a biological context, refers to the function or efficacy of substances within the body. Nutraceuticals exhibit biological activities that can influence health outcomes positively, enhancing physiological responses and promoting wellness.
6) Drug:
Drugs are substances used in the diagnosis, treatment, or prevention of disease. Nutraceuticals, as a subset of natural compounds, are gaining traction for their preventive roles against chronic diseases, steadily becoming essential in healthcare discussions.
7) Diet:
Diet refers to the types and amounts of food consumed for health maintenance. Nutraceuticals highlight the importance of a nutritious diet in disease prevention and management, promoting a holistic approach to health by incorporating beneficial food components.
8) Phytochemical:
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds derived from plants that contribute to disease prevention. They are integral to nutraceuticals, offering therapeutic effects such as antioxidant activity that enhances health and combats chronic diseases.
9) Substance:
Substances refer to distinct forms of matter. The term encompasses various nutraceutical components, highlighting their diverse origins and potential health benefits in nutrition and disease prevention.
10) Rich (Rch):
Rich refers to having a high concentration of beneficial components. Nutraceuticals that are rich in bioactive compounds contribute significantly to health by supporting physiological functions and reducing disease risk.
11) Flavonoid:
Flavonoids are a diverse group of phytochemicals with significant health benefits, contributing to the prevention of diseases, primarily due to their antioxidant properties. They are a crucial aspect of the nutraceutical landscape.
12) Life:
Life encompasses the biological aspects and experiences of living organisms. Nutraceuticals are relevant in extending not just lifespan but also healthspan, enabling individuals to live healthier, more vibrant lives through proper nutritional intake.
13) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the degree to which a substance can harm living organisms. While pharmaceutical drugs may have high toxicity levels, many nutraceuticals are viewed as safer alternatives with minimal side effects, presenting a lower risk of toxicity.
14) India:
India, with its rich tradition of herbal medicine, is a significant player in the nutraceutical market. The increasing demand for nutraceuticals in India reflects a growing awareness of health and wellness among its populace.
15) Mental health:
Mental health pertains to psychological well-being. Nutraceuticals are emerging as beneficial for mental health, offering potential support in various mental health disorders through their bioactive components and role in overall cognitive function.
16) Inflammation:
Inflammation is the body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness and swelling. Many nutraceuticals possess anti-inflammatory properties that can mitigate inflammation and contribute to health, thereby aiding in disease prevention.
17) Science (Scientific):
Science encompasses systematic knowledge gained through experimentation and observation. The study of nutraceuticals requires scientific inquiry to validate their efficacy, safety, and therapeutic roles.
18) Turmeric:
Turmeric, derived from Curcuma longa, is known for its active compound curcumin, which offers various health benefits, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. This makes turmeric a popular nutraceutical for health promotion.
19) Allergy:
Allergy refers to the immune system's abnormal reaction to normally harmless substances. Several nutraceuticals are explored for their potential benefits in managing allergic conditions, enhancing overall immune function and health.
20) Indian:
Indian references the cultural and medicinal practices prevalent in India, particularly the use of traditional herbal remedies. This plays an essential role in the growth of the nutraceuticals market within the country.
21) Blood:
Blood is vital for transporting nutrients and oxygen throughout the body. Certain nutraceuticals assist in improving blood health, contributing to the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and enhancing overall well-being.
22) Transformation (Transform, Transforming):
Transformation signifies a change or conversion process. Nutraceuticals can facilitate the transformation of dietary habits and health outcomes, promoting effective approaches to disease prevention through nutrition.
23) Pomegranate:
Pomegranates are nutrient-dense fruits recognized for their health benefits, including antioxidant properties. They are prominent in the nutraceutical field for their potential role in preventing chronic diseases.
24) Developing:
Developing refers to the process of growth or advancement. The nutraceuticals industry is rapidly developing, with increasing research and consumer interest in health-promoting products.
25) Quality:
Quality denotes the standard of something. In the context of nutraceuticals, quality control is vital to ensure safety, efficacy, and the absence of contaminants, thus establishing trust in these health products.
26) Species:
Species refers to a group of organisms with common characteristics. The diversity of plant species provides a wide range of phytochemicals valuable for nutraceutical development and health benefits.
27) Garlic:
Garlic, a common culinary ingredient, is recognized for its medicinal properties. As a nutraceutical, garlic is valued for its potential health benefits, including antibacterial and cardiovascular support.
28) Nature:
Nature encompasses the physical world and its biologic diversity. The increasing exploration of natural substances in developing nutraceuticals reflects a holistic approach toward enhancing health and preventing diseases.
29) Water:
Water is essential for life, serving various functions in bodily processes. Nutraceuticals also focus on hydration and maintaining fluid balance as part of overall health and dietary recommendations.
30) Genu:
Genu, in reference to the genus, highlights the need for technical biological classification. This is relevant for identifying plants utilized in creating nutraceuticals with therapeutic properties.
31) Curcuma longa:
Curcuma longa, widely known as turmeric, is a key plant in nutraceuticals, valued for its active compound curcumin, which exhibits potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, supporting health and wellness.
32) Food supply:
Food supply refers to the availability and accessibility of food sources. Sustainable food supplies are crucial for incorporating nutraceuticals into diets, ensuring a continual source of health-promoting constituents.
33) Momordica charantia:
Momordica charantia, also known as bitter melon, is recognized for its nutritional and medicinal properties. Research supports its potential role as a nutraceutical to help manage diabetes and other health issues.
34) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological pertains to the study of drugs and their effects. Nutraceuticals often display pharmacological properties, revealing healing potentials that can complement traditional medical practices.
35) Fortification:
Fortification is the process of adding essential nutrients to foods. This practice enhances the nutritional value of food and is common in nutraceuticals aimed at preventing nutrient deficiencies.
36) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotic refers to substances that combat bacterial infections. While pharmaceuticals are commonly known, nutraceuticals are increasingly recognized for their adjunctive antimicrobial properties, contributing to health.
37) Chemotherapy:
Chemotherapy involves the use of drugs to treat cancer. Nutraceuticals are increasingly studied for their potential to support patients during chemotherapy, mitigating side effects and improving quality of life.
38) Radiotherapy:
Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to target cancerous cells. Nutraceuticals may play a supportive role during radiotherapy, helping to enhance overall health and wellness in patients undergoing such treatments.
39) Purification:
Purification refers to the process of extracting and refining substances. In nutraceuticals, purification ensures the concentration of bioactive compounds, enhancing therapeutic efficacy and safety.
40) Perception:
Perception relates to the way individuals view or understand something. Public perception of nutraceuticals influences market trends and the adoption of health-promoting products.
41) Toxicology:
Toxicology examines the effects of toxins on living organisms. Understanding toxicology is crucial in the nutraceutical industry to ensure safety and mitigate risks associated with herbal and dietary supplements.
42) Irritation:
Irritation refers to the body's adverse reaction to certain stimuli, often leading to inflammation. Some nutraceuticals are aimed at alleviating irritation, enhancing comfort and health.
43) Depression:
Depression is a mental health disorder that affects mood and functionality. Nutraceuticals are being explored for their potential benefits in managing depressive symptoms alongside traditional therapies.
44) Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context refers to the understanding and information regarding health, nutrition, and the effectiveness of nutraceuticals. Awareness and education contribute to informed consumer choices.
45) Relative:
Relative denotes the comparison or classification of organisms or attributes. This term is used in nutraceuticals to describe the connection between various plants and their health properties.
46) Cinnamon:
Cinnamon is a spice known for its flavor and medicinal properties. It exhibits antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects, making it a popular choice in the nutraceutical category for health benefits.
47) Swelling:
Swelling is a common symptom of inflammation indicating bodily response to injury. Certain nutraceuticals demonstrate properties that reduce swelling, contributing to health and recovery.
48) Learning:
Learning refers to the acquisition of knowledge or skills. In nutrition, understanding the benefits of nutraceuticals is essential for effective health management and prevention.
49) Craving (Crave, Craved):
Craving, similar to cravings, refers to a strong desire for certain foods. Nutraceutical products can potentially influence and reduce cravings, assisting in healthier dietary choices.
50) Mineral:
Mineral denotes inorganic substances essential for health. Nutraceuticals often focus on delivering necessary minerals through dietary supplements, helping prevent deficiencies and promoting overall health.
51) Animal:
Animal relates to living organisms that are not plants. In the context of nutraceuticals, the use of animal-derived products contributes to nutritional diversity and regulatory considerations.
52) Bitter:
Bitter refers to a taste profile characterized by sharpness. Many nutraceuticals derived from bitter plants are thought to have health benefits, including digestion support and therapeutic potential.
53) Table:
Table refers to a systematic arrangement of data or information. In nutraceutical research, tables are used to systematically present findings, effects, and data concerning various compounds and their health roles.
54) Rules:
Rules pertain to guidelines or policies governing practices. The nutraceutical industry operates under specific rules to ensure safety, efficacy, and quality control of health products.
55) Field:
Field refers to a specific area of study or practice. The nutraceutical field is expanding, driven by demand and scientific research focusing on health and wellness enhancement through natural products.
56) Death:
Death signifies the cessation of life. Nutraceuticals aim to mitigate health issues that can lead to premature death by promoting wellness and preventing chronic diseases.
57) Catching (Catch, Catched):
Catch in a biological context may refer to the process of capturing or understanding aspects of health. Nutraceuticals may help 'catch' and prevent diseases through optimal nutrition.
58) Lemon:
Lemon, a citrus fruit rich in vitamin C, is known for its health benefits. Its antioxidant properties make it a sought-after ingredient in nutraceutical formulations aimed at enhancing immunity.
59) Cina:
China has a long history of utilizing herbal remedies, significantly contributing to nutraceutical practices. Traditional Chinese medicine plays an integral role in the global nutraceutical industry.
60) Soya:
Soya, or soybean, is recognized for its high protein content and beneficial phytochemicals. As a nutraceutical, soya provides health benefits, including potential heart health and cancer prevention effects.
61) Hemp:
Hemp is a variety of the cannabis plant valued for its fibers and seeds rich in essential nutrients. Hemp is increasingly considered for its health-promoting properties in the nutraceutical market.
62) Ship:
Ship may refer to the transportation of goods. In the nutraceutical context, this signifies the trade and distribution of health products globally, affecting accessibility and consumer choices.
63) Mast:
Mast refers to a collection of fruits or seeds of certain trees. In nutrition, mast can have implications for dietary sources and food systems, particularly in wildlife.
64) Wine:
Wine, particularly red wine, contains polyphenols like resveratrol known for their antioxidant properties. It is often discussed in the context of nutraceuticals for its potential heart health benefits.
65) Fish:
Fish is a nutrient-rich food known for its high omega-3 fatty acid content. Nutraceuticals derived from fish oils are recognized for their potential benefits in cardiovascular and brain health.
66) Pain:
Pain is an unpleasant sensory experience indicating injury or illness. Nutraceuticals are explored for their potential role in pain management and inflammation reduction, offering alternative approaches to pain relief.
67) Salt (Salty):
Salt is essential for bodily functions, but excessive intake can lead to health issues. Nutraceutical strategies include balancing salt intake for promoting cardiovascular health and overall well-being.
68) Oil:
Oils, particularly plant-based oils, are rich sources of essential fatty acids and phytochemicals. Nutraceuticals derived from oils support health through their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.