Welcome to the Dictionary of Concepts of the Chair of Nutraceutics!
One of the main objectives of the Chair is to enhance knowledge. Therefore, this resource offers a guide to the different important terms and concepts within the field of nutraceuticals.
Explore this collection of definitions that include the main ideas in the world of nutraceuticals and bioactive compounds. Discover also how these compounds can influence your health and well-being, their applications and their benefits.
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Nutraceutical
Dietary supplement, presented in a non-food material of a concentrated bioactive natural substance, usually present in food and which, when taken in a higher dosage than that present in these foods, can help prevent or cure diseases.
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Functional Food
Food that contains a component, nutrient or non-nutrient, with a selective effect on one or more functions of the organism, with an additional effect beyond its nutritional value and whose positive effects justify that its functional nature can be claimed or even that it is healthy.
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Antioxidants
They are compounds that help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, unstable substances that can contribute to aging and disease.
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Polyphenols
They are compounds with phenolic rings in their structure that are present in foods such as fruits, vegetables, tea and black wine, and have been associated with benefits for cardiovascular health and the prevention of chronic diseases.
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Phytonutrients
They are chemical compounds of plant origin that have antioxidant and/or anti-inflammatory properties, and can benefit human health.
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Phytosterols
They are plant compounds that have a similar structure to cholesterol and can help reduce LDL cholesterol levels in the blood when consumed in adequate amounts.
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Resveratrol
It is a polyphenol found in grape peel and other foods, and has been associated with benefits for cardiovascular health and longevity.
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Probiotic
They are live microorganisms that, when consumed in adequate amounts, can confer health benefits in balancing the intestinal microbiota.
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Prebiotics
They are non-digestible food fibers that selectively feed beneficial bacteria in the intestine, thus promoting intestinal health.