Probiotics are defined as the “live microorganisms like bacteria and yeast that, when administered in adequate amounts, confer a health benefit on the host”. Probiotics are generally studied to be safe to consume, but they may cause bacteria-host interactions and unwanted side effects in rare cases.
All the Probiotics come from two Groups; Lactobacillus & Bifidobacterium. Lactobacillus is the most common probiotics that are found in yogurt & other fermented foods that help with diarrhea that may help people who can't digest lactose. Bifidobacterium is found in some dairy products that help ease the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome and some other conditions.
Some conditions that Probiotics help are;
- Preventing and treating yeast infections
- Preventing and treating urinary tract infections
- Lactose intolerance
- Skin conditions such as eczema
- Treating certain stomach and respiratory infections
- Treating allergies and asthma
- Decreasing inflammation, such as from rheumatoid arthritis
Functional foods are ingredients that offer health aid that extend beyond their nutritional value. Some types contain additives or other additional ingredients designed to improve health.
Functional foods are those foods which are consumed along with normal diet and that contain biologically active components which offer the potential of enhanced health or reduced risk of disease. All foods are functional to some extent because all foods provide texture, taste, aroma, and nutritive value. These ingredients offer health benefits that extend beyond their nutritional value.
Functional foods may include:
- Conventional foods such as grains, fruits, vegetables, and nuts.
- Modified foods such as yogurt, cereals, and orange juice.
Nutraceuticals define any product derived from food sources with extra health benefits in addition to the basic nutritional value found in foods. They can also be treated as non-specific biological therapies used to promote general well-being, control symptoms, and prevent malignant processes.
A Nutraceutical product may be defined as a substance, which has physiological benefits or provides protection against chronic disease. Nutraceuticals which are also called as medical foods that can be worn to enhance health, delay the aging process, prevent chronic diseases, increase life expectancy, support the structure or function of the body, etc.
