Role of functional foods in health promotion and disease prevention: An overview

Good health is the primary concern of every individual and many developing countries are striving to achieve better nutrition by increased use of functional foods.Key elements in functional foods provide various health benefits, reducing the risk of chronic disease like cancer.To counter the challenges due to the changing scenarios such as demographic and epidemiological transition, urbanization, climate change, food insecurity, financial crisis, etc., health promotion has emerged as an important tool; nevertheless the need for newer, innovative approaches cannot be understated.Functional foods contain specific components that can help prevent diseases and promote wellness.These foods are consumed therapeutically since they have physiologically active components that provide several health benefits over and above nutrition.Herbal products or plant products rich in phenolic compounds, flavonoids, terpenoids, coumarins, and other constituents have shown multiple health benefits.In this review, a comprehensive and multifaceted approach is adapted to address stress management through the lens of nutrition.By highlighting the intricate connections between stress, eating patterns, and specific nutrients, this review provides a nuanced understanding of how dietary choices can contribute to a more resilient and balanced lifestyle.It emphasizes mindful eating practices further underscoring the importance of a holistic approach to well-being, where the nourishing power of food is harnessed to support both physical and emotional resilience.Incorporation of functional foods into daily diets is beneficial for their nutritional, healing, and pharmacological benefits.Therefore, increased consumption of diet-derived antioxidants may be particularly helpful by contributing to a better quality of life and world peace.