Nutrition plays a vital role in maintaining our health and preventing chronic diseases. Nutraceutical supplements, which are derived from food sources and have potential health benefits, may help prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer. However, it is important to note that they should not be considered a substitute for a healthy diet and lifestyle. There is some evidence that nutraceutical supplements may be beneficial in certain cases, but their effectiveness varies depending on the individual’s health condition, genetics, and other factors.
“Nutrition is one of the most important factors influencing our overall health and well-being, with a strong correlation between our dietary habits and the development of chronic diseases. Chronic diseases, such as heart disease, diabetes and cancer, are major health problems worldwide, and lifestyle factors such as diet, exercise and smoking are major contributors,” said Harsh, founder of Happy Ratio.
An important aspect of nutrition is the balance of macronutrients and micronutrients in our diet. Macronutrients refer to carbohydrates, proteins and fats, which are required in large amounts to provide energy and support growth and development. Micronutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, are needed in smaller amounts, but are essential for many bodily functions, including immune function, metabolism and bone health.
“Consuming a balanced and varied diet that includes whole foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats can help provide the necessary nutrients for optimal health and help prevent chronic disease. In addition, certain nutrients have been linked to a reduced risk of chronic disease. For example, omega-3 fatty acids found in oily fish, nuts and seeds have been shown to reduce inflammation, lower the risk of heart disease and improve brain health,” Harsh adds.
While it is ideal to get nutrients from food, it is often impractical to consume the amount and variety recommended for healthy individuals. This is where nutraceutical supplements can be used to supplement someone’s dietary intake by filling in the gaps left by their daily habits.
“Nutraceuticals offer a promising way to prevent the onset of chronic disease and manage its complications. These medicinal foods provide nutritional and therapeutic benefits that can improve overall well-being, modulate immunity and treat specific diseases. Nutraceuticals can be a valuable addition to pharmaceuticals, offset negative side effects or improve the management of chronic conditions,” said Dr. Vivek Srivastava, Senior Vice President, Innovation, Business Strategy & Scientific Affairs, Zeon Lifesciences.
Nutraceutical supplements, derived from natural food sources, are believed to be particularly effective in preventing chronic disease by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, thanks to the essential vitamins, minerals and antioxidants they contain. “Common supplements such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, probiotics and green tea extract have been shown to reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis and certain cancers,” adds Dr. Srivastava.
However, taking nutraceutical supplements for chronic disease prevention should not be a substitute for a healthy lifestyle. “Eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption are essential to maintaining good health. Before taking any nutraceutical supplement, it is critical to consult with a health care professional to ensure it is safe, appropriate for individual health needs, and will not interfere with other medications or supplements,” Dr. Srivastava believes.
Harsh echoes the same sentiment: “Consumers should exercise caution when selecting nutraceutical supplements and look for products that have been evaluated in double-blind, placebo-controlled studies with reproducible results. They also have to make sure that the source of the supplements is reputable with strict quality controls.
In short, a balanced and varied diet with sufficient macronutrients and micronutrients is essential for optimal health and the prevention of chronic diseases. Nutraceutical supplements should be used to supplement dietary intake, but they should be selected and used with due care. The basis for preventing any kind of chronic disease is a good diet. Nutraceuticals can only fill the gaps in your dietary habits.
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