Nutraceuticals

Nutraceuticals are foods and supplements that do more than just nourish your body, they help keep you healthy and may even prevent disease! The word combines "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical" because these products work like a mix of food and medicine.

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They come from natural sources like fruits, vegetables, herbs, and dairy, but they pack an extra punch. For example, the probiotics in yogurt help digestion, omega-3s from fish oil support brain health, and antioxidants in blueberries fight aging. Unlike regular medicine, nutraceuticals don’t just treat illness, they help your body stay strong and healthy in the first place.

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From vitamin-packed smoothies to herbal supplements, these powerful products give your body the extra boost it needs to feel its best. Think of them as nature’s way of helping you live a longer, healthier life.

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Types of Nutraceuticals

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• Dietary Supplements: Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, probiotics, and herbal extracts (e.g., vitamin D, omega-3 capsules).
• Functional Foods: Everyday foods enhanced with health benefits (e.g., fortified cereals, probiotic yogurt).
• Medical Foods: Specially formulated for managing medical conditions, often under doctor supervision (e.g., high-protein shakes for malnutrition).
• Farmaceuticals: Bioengineered crops or plants designed to deliver health benefits (e.g., genetically modified rice with added nutrients).

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Key Characteristics of Nutraceuticals

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• Naturally Sourced: Derived from plants, animals, or microbial sources.
• Health-Enhancing: Provides benefits beyond basic nutrition, such as improving digestion, boosting immunity, or supporting cognitive function.
• Disease Prevention & Management: Some nutraceuticals may help prevent or manage conditions like hypertension, osteoporosis, or inflammation.
• Available in Various Forms: Can be found as dietary supplements (capsules, powders, tablets), functional foods (fortified cereals, probiotic yogurt), or beverages (herbal teas, energy drinks).

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