What are functional foods?
Do you want to live longer, have a higher quality of life and reduce risk of disease? Are you part of the “food as thy medicine”movement? If so, you fit the profile of consumers who want to learn more about functional foods. Today’s wellness-minded consumer has a keen focus on refining dietary choices. There are more healthy choices than ever and more cutting edge-research—not all of it consistent. Functional foods are an essential part of the mix. To benefit from this food category, you need to differentiate between real evidence and health claims based on shaky science or murky labeling. According to the International Food Information Council Foundation, functional foods provide benefits beyond basic nutrition and may play a role in reducing the risk of certain diseases and other health conditions. Examples include fruits and vegetables, whole grains, forti- fied foods and beverages and some dietary supplements. Oatmeal, with soluble fibre that can help lower cholesterol levels, is a familiar example.
