Tag: Zoochemicals

Fact: A defining characteristic of an essential nutrient is that its absence leads to deficiency diseases, a trait not found with phytochemicals or zoochemicals. This fundamental difference is why these health-promoting compounds are not officially categorized as nutrients in the traditional sense, though they are vital for optimal health.

According to research, consuming diets rich in plant and animal-based foods provides health benefits beyond standard nutrients, thanks to natural compounds known as phytochemicals and zoochemicals. These non-essential substances, found in fresh foods rather than processed ones, play a vital role in disease prevention and overall well-being.

According to a 2022 review published in *Frontiers in Nutrition*, the functional food category offers health benefits beyond basic nutrition, a role largely attributed to the presence of bioactive compounds like phytochemicals and zoochemicals. While it is widely accepted, many wonder if this is an absolute rule. The claim that functional foods generally contain phytochemicals and zoochemicals is indeed true, reflecting the diverse origins of these health-promoting components.

By definition, an essential nutrient is a compound that the body cannot produce on its own or in sufficient quantities for proper functioning. This fundamental distinction means many compounds, despite having health benefits, are not considered to be essential nutrients, as the body can synthesize them internally.

Zoochemicals are natural, physiologically active compounds found in animal-sourced foods, providing health benefits beyond traditional vitamins and minerals. While phytochemicals from plants receive widespread attention, zoochemicals represent a parallel field of nutritional science that is essential for a balanced diet.

According to nutritional science, foods contain far more than just traditional nutrients like proteins and vitamins. The complex landscape of diet also includes a vast array of non nutrients—substances with no caloric value but significant biological activity—that play crucial, protective roles in human health.

While traditional dietary guidance focuses on essential nutrients like vitamins and minerals, a rising field of study has identified over 5,000 bioactive compounds with potential health benefits. So, **what are examples of bioactive products**? These powerful substances, found in plants, animals, and microbes, influence physiological processes to promote optimal health and reduce disease risk.