Research Topic: Nutraceutical

Seaweed Protein Hydrolyzates: A Valuable Source of Short- and Medium-Chain Peptides with Multifunctional Properties

Scientists found that an invasive seaweed species can be converted into health-promoting peptides (small protein fragments) that may help control blood pressure and blood sugar levels. The study identified hundreds of these peptides and tested their effectiveness against enzymes involved in hypertension and diabetes. The peptides showed promise as natural ingredients for functional foods designed to prevent metabolic diseases while also addressing the environmental problem of harmful seaweed blooms.

Read More »

Comparative study on structural characterization, physicochemical properties, and in vitro probiotic activities of resistant starch from different varieties of Euryale ferox

Euryale ferox, a nutritious aquatic plant, contains two varieties with significantly different health benefits. North Euryale ferox has much higher levels of resistant starch (a special type of starch that resists digestion) compared to South Euryale ferox, making it potentially more beneficial for gut health and diabetes management. The resistant starch in this plant acts as a prebiotic, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria while inhibiting harmful bacteria, supporting overall digestive and metabolic health.

Read More »

Therapeutic and Nutraceutical Potential of Sargassum Species: A Narrative Review

Sargassum is a type of ocean seaweed that has been used in traditional medicine for centuries and contains compounds that may help fight inflammation, oxidative stress, viruses, and bacteria. Scientists have discovered that different Sargassum species produce nearly 200 different bioactive compounds with potential health benefits ranging from reducing arthritis symptoms to supporting immune function. While Sargassum can accumulate harmful heavy metals like arsenic from seawater, researchers have developed effective cleaning methods to remove these contaminants while preserving the beneficial compounds. This makes Sargassum a promising sustainable source of natural medicines and health supplements.

Read More »

Advancing Pistacia terebinthus L. (Anacardiaceae) Research: Food Preservation, Functional Foods, and Nutraceutical Potential

The turpentine tree (Pistacia terebinthus L.) is a Mediterranean plant traditionally used in food and medicine that is now being studied for modern food applications. Its fruits, seeds, leaves, and resin contain powerful compounds that fight bacteria, reduce oxidative stress, and promote health. Scientists are developing new techniques like microencapsulation and fermentation to preserve its beneficial properties in functional foods, yogurt, and other products. This underutilized plant could become an important natural ingredient for food preservation and health supplements.

Read More »

Mushroom By-Products as a Source of Growth Stimulation and Biochemical Composition Added-Value of Pleurotus ostreatus, Cyclocybe cylindracea, and Lentinula edodes

Researchers discovered that leftover mushroom materials from commercial cultivation can be recycled to boost the growth of edible mushroom mycelium. When mushroom waste extracts were added to growing media, they enhanced mycelial growth by up to 89.5% and increased beneficial compounds like chitin and proteins. This finding suggests a promising way to reduce mushroom farming waste while simultaneously improving the nutritional quality of cultivated mushrooms.

Read More »

Unveiling the full spectrum of maitake mushrooms: A comprehensive review of their medicinal, therapeutic, nutraceutical, and cosmetic potential

Maitake mushrooms, long used in Asian traditional medicine, contain powerful compounds that may help fight cancer, support immune function, manage blood sugar, and protect skin health. Research shows they can inhibit bacterial and viral infections, reduce tumor growth in various cancer types, and improve overall metabolic health. These mushrooms can be incorporated into food-based supplements and skincare products. While promising results have been seen in laboratory and animal studies, more human clinical trials are needed to fully understand their benefits and safety.

Read More »

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

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.

Read More »

Valorisation of fish scales and bones: a sustainable source of bioactive proteins and collagen for nutraceuticals

Fish scales and bones, usually thrown away as waste, contain valuable collagen and proteins that can improve skin, joints, and overall health. New extraction methods can recover these beneficial compounds efficiently while being environmentally friendly. Studies show that taking fish collagen supplements daily can improve skin appearance, reduce joint pain, and lower blood pressure, making them a sustainable and natural health solution.

Read More »

Himalayan Mushrooms as a Natural Source of Ergosterol and Vitamin D2: A Review of Nutraceutical and Functional Food Perspectives

Mushrooms from the Himalayan region are naturally rich in ergosterol, a compound that converts to vitamin D2 when exposed to sunlight or UV light. This review explores how mushrooms can serve as sustainable, plant-based sources of vitamin D to address deficiencies in populations with limited sun exposure. By understanding how environmental factors and UV treatment affect ergosterol levels, scientists can develop enriched mushroom-based foods and supplements with enhanced nutritional benefits.

Read More »

Chemical Composition, Bioactive Compounds, and Antioxidant Activity of Two Wild Edible Mushrooms Armillaria mellea and Macrolepiota procera from Two Countries (Morocco and Portugal)

This study compared two edible wild mushrooms (honey fungus and parasol mushroom) from Morocco and Portugal to understand their health benefits. Both mushrooms were found to be rich in compounds with antioxidant properties that help protect cells from damage. The research shows that where mushrooms grow—whether in Morocco or Portugal—affects their chemical makeup and healing potential, with Moroccan honey fungus showing particularly strong antioxidant power.

Read More »
Scroll to Top