Nutraceutical Therapy

Nutraceuticals Therapy

Therapy using food-derived substances (vitamins, minerals, herbs, probiotics, etc.) with extra health benefits beyond basic nutrition, acting as a bridge between nutrition and pharmaceuticals to support well-being, manage symptoms, boost immunity, and potentially prevent or treat chronic diseases like heart issues, diabetes, or inflammation. It involves using concentrated bioactive compounds to promote natural healing, improve recovery, and reduce side effects from other treatments, working as a complementary tool in healthcare.

  What Nutraceuticals Are

• A blend of "nutrition" and "pharmaceuticals," these are biologically active compounds from food sources.

• Examples include omega-3s, probiotics, curcumin (turmeric), ginseng, green tea, and specific vitamins (D, B).

What Nutraceutical Therapy Does

• Promotes General Health: Enhances overall well-being, delays aging, and supports the body's structure and function.

• Disease Prevention: Helps lower risks for chronic diseases like hypertension, obesity, and diabetes by targeting metabolic pathways.

• Supports Existing Treatments: Reduces side effects from chemotherapy or radiotherapy and boosts immune resilience.

• Manages Conditions: Offers anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, antimicrobial, and immune-boosting effects.

• Targets Specific Systems: Can modulate the gut microbiome, improve cognitive function, and support cardiovascular health. 

Key Applications

• Immune Support: Vitamins, minerals, and phytocompounds can activate immune cells and fight infections.

• Inflammation: Curcumin and boswellic acid combinations can calm chronic inflammation.

• Metabolic Health: Fiber and polyphenols can help manage blood sugar and weight.

• Cognitive Health: Omega-3s and B vitamins can improve mood and brain function, potentially reducing neurodegenerative risk. 

Reference: National Institute of Health (NIH)

News Medical

Frontiers in Nutrition