Functional foods

Question 1

what is a functional food

Answer 1

A food that provides a health benefit

Question 2

6 categories of functional foods

Answer 2

1. phytoestrogens
2. probiotics
3. plant sterols
4. whole grains
5. omega-3 fatty acids
6. antioxidants

Question 3

1. phytoestrogens
   (only know 2 benefits)

Answer 3

they have similar chemical composition to the human form of oestrogen

Soy products are the main providers of phytoestrogens
e.g. tofu, soy sauce, soy milk

They may reduce the incidence of heart disease and some cancers
They may reduce the risk of bone fractures
they may reduce the symptoms of menopause

Question 4

2. probiotics
   (only know 2)

Answer 4

they are live microbial food ingredients that promote the growth of good bacteria in the colon

they are most commonly found in yoghurt

they may help prevent diarrhoea
they may reduce the risk of allergies and eczema
they enhance nutrient absorption in the bowel
they may protect bowel against cancer

Question 5

3. plant sterols

Answer 5

they are components of plants

they are found in small amounts in vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, vegetable oils, plants and cereals
food is sometimes fortified with these

they may lower blood cholesterol by blocking its absorption, therefore reducing the risk of heart disease

Question 6

4. whole grains
   (only know 2)

Answer 6

a whole grain is when the entire grains seed is used.

they can be consumed in many forms.
e.g. different varieties of grain breads

they may provide protection against a wide range of diseases including heart disease
they may reduce the risk of intestinal cancers
the folic acid found in whole grain helps prevent neural tube defects in babies

Question 7

5. omega-3 fatty acids

Answer 7

this is in fish and fod are fortified with it

they may reduce the risk of heart disease
they may reduce the risk of some cancers, arthritis and neurological disorders like depression

Question 8

6. antioxidants
   (only know 2)

Answer 8

they are present in vitamins and minerals and stabilise oxidisation in foods.

they are found in many fruits and vegetables
e.g. carrots and blueberries

they may reduce the risk of cancers, CVD and osteoperosis
they may contribute to healthy vision
they may maintain to brain function
they may contribute to a strong immune system