Functional foods
An initiative of the Omega 3 Institute in collaboration with the SENC and CECU
Functional foods are those that, regardless of the nutrients provided, have been scientifically proven to positively affect one or more functions of the body. In Spain, around 200 types of functional foods are marketed.
Experts recommend following a healthy, varied and balanced diet as the best way to ensure good health and prevent disease. However, new lifestyles have caused certain healthy eating habits to be abandoned. The lack of time to cook and the current rhythm of life often lead to food imbalances and imbalances that are related to the appearance of a large number of pathologies.
To alleviate this situation, functional foods arise, which guarantee the intake of nutrients recommended by nutrition specialists. These foods also play a preventive role by reducing the risk factors that cause the appearance of diseases.
| Types of functional foods in Spain | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Functional food | Functional component | |||||
| Fortified milks | – Omega-3 acids (EPA and DHA) – Oleic acid – Folic acid – Calcium – Vitamins A and D – Phosphorus and zinc |
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| Initiation and follow-on infant milks | – Fatty acids – Vitamins and minerals |
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| Fortified yogurts | – Calcium – Vitamins A and D |
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| Fermented milks | – Omega-3 acids (EPA and DHA) and oleic acid – Specific probiotic bacteria (including active bifidus) |
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| Enriched juices | – Vitamins and minerals | |||||
| Fortified cereals | – Fiber and minerals | |||||
| Enriched bread | – Folic acid | |||||
| Enriched eggs | – Omega-3 acids | |||||
| Enriched margarines | – Phytosterols | |||||
| Iodized salt | – Iodine | |||||
Functional foods should be consumed within a healthy and balanced diet and in the same amounts in which the rest of the foods are usually consumed. They can be part of anyone’s diet.
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