Functional Foods

Hello Dear Snowfit Readers,

Today we will talk about “functional foods”, one of the hidden heroes that colour our table and support our health. We often hear about them, but we don’t know much about what they are and how they help us.

What is Functional Food? Functional foods are special foods or ingredients that go beyond just meeting basic nutritional needs and provide additional benefits on human physiology and metabolic functions. The purpose of these foods is to show effectiveness in disease prevention and to help achieve a healthier life.

Basically, functional foods contain special nutrients to optimise body functions. Antioxidants, probiotics, vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids are the main components of these foods. The health benefits of functional foods include important effects such as strengthening the immune system, supporting digestive health, and slowing the aging process.

There is a wide range of functional foods. Fermented products containing probiotics can improve intestinal health by supporting the digestive system. Foods such as fish, chia seeds and walnuts containing omega-3 fatty acids can support heart health. Regular and conscious consumption of these foods can positively affect overall health.

Historically, the positive effects of functional foods on health reflect a tradition that has come from the past to the present, as Hippocrates stated in his quote “Let food be your medicine, let your medicine be your food.” Functional foods have a strong history not only in terms of flavour but also in terms of health.

The health journey with functional foods often includes substances with bioactive properties derived from or added to completely natural foods. For example, the mention of tomatoes with lycopene, salmon with omega-3 fatty acids and soy with phytoestrogens reveals the third dimension of these foods that responds to functional expectations in addition to the nutritional and enjoyable properties of food.

Today, functional foods are growing rapidly in the world market with the effect of globalisation and scientific advances. The popularity of functional foods is also increasing in Turkey and national companies offer various products in this field.

What are the Benefits for Health? Functional foods contribute to various health benefits as well as providing the nutrients our body needs. For example, foods containing probiotics support the digestive system and strengthen the immune system. Antioxidants reduce cellular damage and slow down the aging process by fighting free radicals.

Which Foods Can Be Functional? There are many types of functional foods. Foods containing probiotics such as yoghurt and kefir, omega-3 fatty acid sources such as salmon and walnuts, antioxidant-rich vegetables such as spinach and broccoli are examples of this category. Consuming these foods regularly contributes to our overall health. We have compiled a few examples of functional foods for you.

Dates

• It is a nutritional source containing soluble fibre. The fibre regulates the digestive system, supports intestinal health, and provides a feeling of satiety.
• Thanks to the fibre it contains, the effect of sugar in the bloodstream is more balanced, which helps energy levels to be more stable.
• It is a natural source of tryptophan. Tryptophan is an amino acid found in dates and has the effect of calming the nervous system.

Oats

• It supports cardiac health with beta-glucan content.
• It regulates the digestive system with its rich fibre content.

Fish Oil

• It contains omega-3 fatty acids, contributes to brain functions.
• Supports heart health.

Blueberry

• It strengthens the immune system as it is rich in antioxidants.
• It contains components that support eye health.

Yoghurt and Probiotic Drinks

• It contains probiotic bacteria that regulate the digestive system.
• Strengthens the immune system.

Ginger

• It has anti-inflammatory properties, reduces inflammation.
• Helps the digestive system.

Broccoli

• It contains glucoraphanin, provides potential benefits in the fight against cancer.
• It is rich in antioxidants.

Walnut

• It contains omega-3 fatty acids, supports brain health.
• Helps protect heart health.

Cocoa

• Contains flavanols, lowers blood pressure.
• It has antioxidant properties.

Turmeric

• It has antioxidant properties.
• Supports joint health.

Green Tea

• It contains caffeine and is rich in antioxidants.
• It accelerates metabolism and helps weight control.

How Can We Add Functional Foods to Our Daily Life?

Transitioning to a healthy lifestyle brings with it making room for functional foods. However, do not see these changes as a frightening task. Start with small steps. For example, add antioxidant-rich fruits to your smoothie or start by adding walnuts, a source of omega-3, to your salad. Remember, small changes can make a big difference.

Do your body a favour with more varied and efficient meals by adding functional foods to your diet.

Snowfit team wishes you healthy and happy days, stay with Snowfit!