Category: Functional foods

Representing up to 15% of the date fruit's weight, the date seed is made of a complex mix of beneficial compounds. Long considered a waste product, its rich composition is now recognized for significant nutritional potential across various industries.

Archaeologists have found evidence of humans consuming macroalgae (seaweed) for thousands of years, but the focus has shifted to their microscopic cousins. The answer to "can humans eat microalgae?" is a resounding yes, and species like spirulina and chlorella are already widely available as dietary supplements and food ingredients.

Studies show that eating dark chocolate with a high cocoa content may lower the risk of heart disease. So, is there a benefit to eating dark chocolate? Yes, provided you choose a high-quality product and consume it in moderation.

While most people know bougainvillea as a vibrant ornamental plant, traditional medicine in some cultures has long utilized its colorful bracts and flowers for therapeutic purposes. These applications include brewing the flowers into a tea believed to possess medicinal properties, such as antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. This article explores these traditional uses and the potential benefits of eating bougainvillea flowers, but not without a crucial safety warning.

According to research from the National Institutes of Health, yacon root contains remarkable amounts of prebiotic fructans and rare antioxidant phenolics. This South American tuber is gaining global recognition not only for its sweet, crisp taste but also for its profound health benefits, primarily driven by its unique prebiotic content. For centuries, the yacon root has been a staple in Andean cultures, used for both nutritional and folk medicine purposes.

According to research published by the National Institutes of Health, sweetened beverages still account for a significant portion of daily energy intake for many people. In contrast, Alive drinks are marketed as a healthier alternative, but are Alive drinks healthy? This article examines the ingredients and potential benefits to help you make an informed decision.

While the oil pressed from seeds contains valuable fatty acids, the compounds known as lignans are actually concentrated in the seed's fibrous hull, not the oil itself. Therefore, the best sources of lignan oil are specifically fortified flaxseed products or the ground seeds themselves, which offer a potent and natural way to consume these beneficial phytonutrients.

According to a 2021 meta-analysis of seven randomized controlled trials, sesame consumption significantly reduced serum levels of the inflammatory marker interleukin-6. These and other studies indicate that lignans, a group of plant compounds, possess promising anti-inflammatory properties that may help manage chronic inflammation.

Teosinte, the wild ancestor of modern corn, was first domesticated in Mexico over 9,000 years ago. The question is teosinte good for you is complex, as its nutritional value and edibility depend on the specific species and how it is prepared.

Recent research has highlighted oleanolic acid, a pentacyclic triterpenoid, for its wide range of therapeutic properties, including anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Oleanolic acid is found naturally in many plants and is often concentrated in the skin or peel of fruits. Incorporating foods that are high in oleanolic acid into your diet may offer a variety of health benefits. This guide will explore the primary dietary sources of this beneficial compound.