MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Clinical Implementation of Sustainable Functional Foods and Nutraceuticals in Metabolic Health: A Feasibility Study

Summary

Researchers tested a combination of special foods and supplements made from Mediterranean plants like tomatoes, pomegranates, and hazelnuts to see if they could help people with metabolic health problems. Over 4 weeks, older adults who consumed these foods daily showed improvements in muscle, bone quality, and liver health. The products tasted good and people stuck with them easily, suggesting this approach could be a practical way to improve health through diet.

Background

Diet quality significantly influences metabolic health, obesity, and non-communicable disease risk. Functional foods and nutraceuticals rich in bioactive compounds may enhance health outcomes beyond basic nutrition, particularly when combined with Mediterranean-style dietary patterns.

Objective

This feasibility study evaluated the integration of functional foods and nutraceuticals into a Mediterranean-based dietary intervention in adults with metabolic risk factors, focusing on feasibility, tolerability, and preliminary clinical effects.

Results

Functional foods and nutraceuticals were well-tolerated with high adherence (>80%). Bioactive compounds were detectable in serum post-consumption, confirming bioavailability. Improvements were observed in mid-arm circumference, triceps skinfold thickness, total body water percentage, bone quality markers, and liver steatosis reduction.

Conclusion

Integrating functional foods and nutraceuticals into a Mediterranean-style dietary intervention is feasible, safe, and acceptable in older adults with metabolic risk factors. These results support the potential clinical benefit of combined dietary strategies and provide rationale for a larger randomized controlled trial.
  • Published in:Nutrients,
  • Study Type:Clinical Trial - Feasibility Study,
  • Source: 41470804
Scroll to Top