Tag: Preventive health

According to a 2022 review, nutraceuticals are products that provide health and medical benefits, including the prevention and treatment of various diseases. In essence, the aim of nutraceuticals is to bridge the gap between basic nutrition and medicinal effects, using natural sources to improve overall health and prevent chronic conditions.

Born in Shanghai in 1923, Dr. John Scharffenberg became known for his six-decade career promoting a preventive, lifestyle-based approach to health and longevity. As a Harvard-trained physician and professor of nutrition at Loma Linda University, his work focused on the significant impact of diet, exercise, and daily habits on extending lifespan.

According to a 2017 study cited by the Health Supplements Information Service, a significant portion of adults have low levels of key nutrients like Vitamin D, prompting many to turn to supplements. This growing trend reflects a deeper shift towards proactive health management and personalized nutrition in modern lifestyles.

According to a 2023 survey, 74% of US adults take dietary supplements, with a majority considering it essential for their health. This widespread adoption raises the question: why have supplements become so popular? The answer lies in a confluence of societal shifts, technological advancements, and evolving consumer attitudes towards personal well-being.

The global functional food market is projected to reach approximately $979.61 billion by 2034, reflecting a significant and growing interest from health-conscious consumers. This rapid expansion is driven by a societal shift toward proactive, preventive health management and a greater awareness of the link between diet and well-being.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 2 billion people worldwide suffer from micronutrient deficiencies, which are responsible for a significant global health burden. These nutritional gaps can lead to a host of health problems, from fatigue and weakness to more serious long-term illnesses.

The well-known English proverb, "An apple a day keeps the doctor away," first appeared in a slightly different form in 1866 in the Welsh magazine *Notes and Queries*. While the saying is not to be taken literally, modern science has confirmed that this popular fruit does, in fact, offer a wide array of health-promoting benefits that contribute to overall wellness.

According to the World Health Organization, a healthy diet is a key protector against noncommunicable diseases, including diabetes, heart disease, and cancer. The positive consequences of maintaining a healthy diet extend far beyond short-term gains, creating a foundation for a healthier, more vibrant life.

While essential for many biological functions, trace elements are only required in very small amounts by the body. If you have too many trace elements, a condition called toxicity can result, causing serious and sometimes irreversible health issues.

According to the World Health Organization, functional foods, also known as nutraceuticals, are ingredients that offer health benefits beyond their basic nutritional value. These foods have long been a part of human diets, with a modern understanding driven by advances in nutritional science and a growing interest in preventive health.