Functional foods – Page 8

Anti-Hyperlipidemic and Anti-Atherogenic Effect of Citrus Peel Pectin Against Cholesterol and Cholic Acid Induced Hyperlipidemia in Sprague Dawley Rats

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Researchers tested whether pectin extracted from citrus peels could help treat high cholesterol and fat levels in the blood using rats. When rats were given different amounts of citrus peel pectin mixed into their food, their cholesterol and triglyceride levels decreased significantly while their good cholesterol (HDL) increased. The treatment also protected their heart, liver, and kidney tissues from damage. This suggests citrus peel pectin, usually thrown away by juice companies, could become a useful and natural remedy for managing high cholesterol.

Exploring the Potential of Haematococcus pluvialis as a Source of Bioactives for Food Applications: A Review

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Haematococcus pluvialis is a tiny green algae that produces astaxanthin, a powerful natural antioxidant that gives it a bright red color when stressed. Beyond astaxanthin, this microalga is rich in proteins, healthy fats, and vitamins, making it useful for creating functional foods and supplements. Researchers are developing better ways to grow this algae and extract its beneficial compounds using environmentally friendly methods, with potential applications in foods ranging from beverages to meat alternatives.

Dietary Intake of Phytochemicals, Gut Microbiota, and Appetite Control

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This research editorial highlights how plant-based foods rich in phytochemicals can improve gut health by promoting beneficial bacteria growth and supporting communication between the gut and brain. These dietary interventions show promise in helping control appetite, improve metabolism, and reduce the risk of diseases like obesity and type 2 diabetes. The studies suggest that personalized nutrition approaches based on individual microbiome profiles could offer more effective disease prevention and health maintenance strategies.

Incorporating Fresh Durum Wheat Semolina Pasta Fortified with Cardoncello (Pleurotus eryngii) Mushroom Powder as a Mediterranean Diet Staple

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Researchers created a new type of pasta by mixing regular wheat pasta with powdered Cardoncello mushrooms (Pleurotus eryngii). The mushroom-enriched pasta contains significantly more fiber and antioxidants than regular pasta while maintaining good taste and texture. The product can be labeled as ‘high in fiber’ and shows promise for supporting digestive health through prebiotic effects, making it a healthier option for Mediterranean diet followers.

In Vitro Prebiotic Potential of Opuntia humifusa Leaf Extract and Its Active Constituent

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Researchers studied a traditional Korean plant called Opuntia humifusa to determine if it could act as a prebiotic—a food component that promotes the growth of beneficial gut bacteria. They found that leaf extracts, particularly when prepared with 60% ethanol, effectively stimulated the growth of Lactobacillus bacteria. The active ingredient was identified as a compound called isorhamnetin glycoside, which could make this plant a natural ingredient for functional foods designed to support digestive and overall health.

Bioactive Potential of Tocosh Supplemented with Selenium-Enriched Saccharomyces Cerevisiae Biomass

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Researchers enhanced a traditional Peruvian fermented potato food called tocosh by adding selenium-enriched yeast. This combination reduced inflammation markers in immune cells without affecting its blood sugar impact or antioxidant properties. The resulting product shows promise as a functional food that could help people manage inflammatory conditions while improving nutritional content.

Impact of Packaging Variations on the Amino Acid Profile, Proximate Content, and Antinutritional Components of Tempeh from Jack Bean Sprouts

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This study examines how wrapping tempeh made from jack bean sprouts in different materials affects its nutritional value. Researchers tested three packaging types—plastic, banana leaves, and teak leaves—over various fermentation periods. Results show that teak leaf packaging at 48 hours of fermentation produces tempeh with the highest protein and amino acid content while reducing harmful compounds like hydrogen cyanide to safe levels.

Valorization and Environmental Impacts of Pecan Waste: A Critical Review

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Pecan shells, which make up about half of the pecan nut and are usually discarded, contain valuable compounds with health-promoting properties like antioxidants and anti-inflammatory agents. These shells can be transformed into useful products including ingredients for food supplements and medicines, activated carbon for cleaning water, materials for making eco-friendly plastics, and energy sources. By converting pecan waste into valuable products instead of throwing it away, communities can reduce environmental pollution, improve public health, and create economic opportunities while supporting sustainable farming practices.

Marine-Derived Enterococcus faecalis HY0110 as a Next-Generation Functional Food Probiotic: Comprehensive In Vitro and In Vivo Bioactivity Evaluation and Synergistic Fermentation of Periplaneta americana Extract Powder

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Scientists discovered a beneficial bacteria called Enterococcus faecalis HY0110 from bluefin tuna that could help protect gut health and fight harmful pathogens better than current probiotics. This marine bacteria produces important compounds like acetic acid that kill disease-causing bacteria, reduce inflammation in inflammatory bowel disease, and even slows cancer cell growth. When fermented with cockroach powder, it creates powerful health-boosting compounds that could make functional foods more effective for managing digestive diseases and supporting overall wellness.

Exploring Bioactive Compounds from Fruit and Vegetable By-Products with Potential for Food and Nutraceutical Applications

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This review explores how food waste from fruit and vegetable processing can be transformed into valuable health supplements and functional foods. By-products like peels, seeds, and leaves contain powerful compounds with antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Modern extraction techniques can efficiently recover these compounds in environmentally friendly ways, making it possible to create nutritious supplements while reducing food waste and supporting sustainable food production.

Research Topic: Functional foods