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Functional foods are gaining popularity for their ability to bridge the gap between nutrition and medicine. This article explores what functional foods are, their benefits, and examples of how they can be incorporated into a balanced diet.
Functional foods are defined as foods that offer additional health benefits beyond their nutritional value. These benefits may arise from added ingredients (like omega-3 fatty acids in eggs) or naturally occurring compounds (like probiotics in yoghurt).
Heart Health
Digestive Support
Immune Boost
Bone Health
Improved Energy Levels
Functional foods can be divided into two main categories:
Functional foods can be easily included in daily meals:
While functional foods are a natural way to boost health, supplements can provide concentrated doses of nutrients. However, whole foods offer a synergistic mix of nutrients, fibre, and bioactive compounds, making them a preferred option when possible.
Functional foods are a cornerstone of a healthy, balanced diet. By incorporating them into your meals, you can support your heart, bones, gut, and overall health naturally. Whether through natural choices like berries or fortified options like vitamin D-enriched milk, functional foods offer a delicious way to optimise your nutrition.
