Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals, a term combining "nutrition" and "pharmaceuticals", are food-derived products that are purported to provide health and medical benefits beyond basic nutrition. These products range from isolated nutrients, dietary supplements, and diets to genetically engineered foods, herbal products, and processed foods such as cereals, soups, and beverages. The concept is rooted in the idea that certain foods and components of foods can have a beneficial effect on health, prevent chronic diseases, or support the body’s natural functions.

Definition and Classification

The term "nutraceutical" was coined in 1989 by Dr. Stephen DeFelice, founder and chairman of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine. Nutraceuticals are categorized into two main groups: dietary supplements and functional foods. Dietary supplements are products taken orally that contain a "dietary ingredient" intended to supplement the diet. These ingredients may include vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, and substances such as enzymes, organ tissues, glandulars, and metabolites. Functional foods are similar in appearance to conventional foods and are consumed as part of a regular diet, but have been enhanced or designed to have specific beneficial effects on health.

Regulation

The regulation of nutraceuticals varies significantly from country to country. In the United States, the Dietary Supplement Health and Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994 allows manufacturers to sell nutraceuticals as dietary supplements without the need for FDA approval, provided they make no claims about treating or preventing diseases. In contrast, the European Union and Canada have stricter regulations, requiring evidence of safety and efficacy before marketing.

Health Benefits and Risks

Nutraceuticals are claimed to have various health benefits, including prevention and treatment of diseases, improvement of health parameters, and enhancement of body functions. For example, omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish oils, are widely recognized for their potential in reducing the risk of heart disease. Probiotics, live microorganisms found in yogurts and dietary supplements, are said to promote a healthy digestive tract and immune system.

However, the efficacy and safety of many nutraceuticals remain controversial among medical professionals. The lack of rigorous clinical trials and standardization in the production of nutraceuticals raises concerns about their actual health benefits, potential side effects, and interactions with other drugs.

Future Perspectives

The nutraceutical industry is rapidly growing, driven by increasing consumer interest in health and wellness. Advances in biotechnology and genomics are opening new avenues for the development of functional foods and dietary supplements with specific health benefits. However, this growth underscores the need for more stringent regulations and standardized research methodologies to ensure the safety and efficacy of nutraceutical products.

See Also

• Dietary supplement
• Functional food
• Health claims on food labels
• Phytochemicals
• Prebiotics (nutrition)
• Probiotics