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Functional foods are dietary components that offer health advantages extending beyond basic nutritional value.

Definition of Functional Foods

Functional foods, also known as nutraceuticals, are highly nutritious foods associated with numerous health benefits, such as disease protection, nutrient deficiency prevention, and promoting growth and development. These foods may be naturally nutrient-rich or fortified with additional ingredients like vitamins, minerals, probiotics, or fiber. The concept of functional foods originated in Japan in the 1980s, aiming to improve public health by approving foods with proven health benefits.

Types of Functional Foods

Functional foods are categorized into conventional and modified types.

Conventional Functional Foods

These are natural, whole foods rich in essential nutrients such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats. This includes fruits like berries, vegetables like zucchini, nuts, seeds, legumes, and seafood among others.

Modified Functional Foods

These are foods fortified with additional nutrients to enhance their health benefits. This includes fortified juices, dairy, eggs, and cereal. 

Benefits of Functional Foods

Prevent Nutrient Deficiencies

Functional foods are rich in essential nutrients, helping prevent deficiencies. Fortified foods have significantly reduced nutrient deficiencies globally. For instance, iron-fortified wheat flour has cut iron deficiency anemia rates in Jordan nearly in half.

Protect Against Disease

Many functional foods are rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and fiber, which help prevent chronic conditions like heart disease, cancer, and diabetes. Fiber also promotes better blood sugar control and protects against digestive disorders.

Promote Growth and Development

Nutrient-rich functional foods support proper growth in infants and children. Foods fortified with specific nutrients, like folic acid, are crucial for fetal health, reducing the risk of neural tube defects.

Uses of Functional Foods

A balanced diet should include a variety of functional foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes, to ensure adequate vitamin and mineral intake. Fortified foods can also help fill nutritional gaps and enhance overall health.

Functional foods offer powerful health benefits, including preventing nutrient deficiencies, protecting against diseases, and supporting growth and development. Including a variety of these foods in your diet can promote better health and fill any nutritional gaps.