336 300 Functional foods and how to incorporate them into the diet

Science and technology give us good news to improve our quality of life by controlling the food . In this case a food group , called functional , having the distinction of being useful for the health care of the population. Numerous scientific evidence of the positive action of this type of food ( usually milk-or cereal) on our health, optimizing the functioning of the body and helping to reduce the risk of disease.

What compounds are functional foods?

Prebiotics (fructans natural) go directly to nourish your gut and flora, in turn, improve calcium absorption and slow the growth of pathogenic bacteria. They are present in bananas, vegetables, potatoes, garlic, onions, leeks, wheat, barley, oats and asparagus.
Probiotics: are called good microorganisms, such as lactobacilli (Lactobacillus casei) and bifidobacteria (found in yogurts and fermented milks), act directly on the harmful bacteria. They act as antibiotics and also stimulate the intestinal immune system.
Phytosterols and stanols: are natural components present in the same food , and can also be included industrially. Its properties are antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, antifungal and also displace cholesterol from the intestine. It is found in soybeans, almonds, walnuts, wheat, maize and vegetable oils.
Omega 3 and 6 acids are fatty acids that help protect the cardiovascular system . They are present in fish.
Combining prebiotics and probiotics, created the food group that They enhance the effects mentioned above, activate the immune system, fight cholesterol, produce substances that act against bacteria and help prevent certain cancers.

While these items can be found in natural and healthy foods , the amounts thereof in the AF ( functional foods ) provide an additional health benefit.

To is generally associated food with their role in nutrition. The most important characteristic of the AF is also contain nutrients, bioactive compounds that have health promoting. Bioactive components are neither new nor synthetic. They are natural structures contained in the food we consumed already normally. What has changed is that now their modes of action are known, which allowed the creation of foods containing more special in greater numbers. few caveats
  

The functional foods are not to be considered remedies. These are just some foods that correct deficiencies or defects food . Collaborate in the control of some diseases and have beneficial effects when consumed regularly. Should be included in daily life as other healthy habits, such as not smoking, lowering sodium intake and exercising regularly. The set of all these healthy habits helps improve our quality of life, so it is very important to pay attention. 

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