Nutraceutical is a term used to describe a product that combines the benefits of nutrition and medicine. It is spelled /n(j)uːtrəˈs(j)uːtɪk(ə)l/ using IPA phonetic transcription. The first syllable "nu" rhymes with "blue," and the second syllable "tri" rhymes with "tree." The "s" sound in the middle of the word is pronounced as a "z" sound. The last syllable is pronounced as "tik-ul." This word is becoming more popular as people look for natural remedies to improve their health.
A nutraceutical is a term used to describe a product derived from food sources with potential therapeutic benefits. It refers to a food or a part of a food that provides medical or health benefits, including the prevention and treatment of diseases. Nutraceuticals combine the aspects of nutrition and pharmaceuticals, hence the name.
These products are often sold in a concentrated form, such as capsules, tablets, or powders, and are considered to be dietary supplements. Examples of nutraceuticals include vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, probiotics, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and natural health products.
The key distinction between nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals lies in their mode of action. Nutraceuticals work in a more gentle and natural manner, providing the body with vital nutrients to enhance its overall health and well-being. They are known for their preventive properties, as they aim to strengthen and optimize bodily functions rather than simply treating diseases.
Nutraceuticals have gained popularity due to growing consumer interest in improving health and preventing illness without relying solely on pharmaceutical drugs. It is important to note that while nutraceuticals have documented health benefits, their effectiveness and safety may vary. It is advisable to consult healthcare professionals before starting any nutraceutical regimen, especially for those with existing medical conditions or taking prescription medications.
The word "nutraceutical" is a combination of two words, "nutrition" and "pharmaceutical". It was coined in 1989 by Dr. Stephen DeFelice, the founder and chairman of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, who wanted a word to describe a product that combines the benefits of nutrition and pharmaceuticals. The term was created to encompass substances derived from food sources (such as vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other dietary supplements) that provide additional health benefits beyond basic nutrition. The prefix "nutra-" signifies nutrition, while "-ceutical" was derived from the word "pharmaceutical", indicating its pharmaceutical-like properties or benefits.