Your Guide to Nutraceuticals What Are Nutraceuticals? Examples of Nutraceuticals How Do Nutraceuticals Work? Difference Between Nutraceuticals and Pharmaceuticals Difference Between Functional Food and Nutraceuticals Benefits of Nutraceuticals Trends in the Nutraceutical Industry Uses and Applications of Nutraceuticals for People Uses and Applications of Nutraceuticals for Pets Trust Acme-Hardesty for Your Nutraceutical Ingredients “Nutraceutical” is the combination of two words –– “nutrient” and “pharmaceutical.” A nutrient is a nourishing component found in food and a pharmaceutical is a medical drug. Nutraceuticals are used for prevention, as nutrition can have a significant impact on a person’s health. Nutraceuticals represent an exciting opportunity in the improvement of health. Manufacturing industries understand the possibilities of this opportunity to supply quality ingredients, and we hope to see the use of nutraceuticals recommended widely. In this guide, we detail what nutraceuticals are used for, the difference between pharmaceuticals, nutraceuticals and functional food, the health benefits of nutraceuticals and current trends in the nutraceutical industry. As with any health guides, it is recommended for individuals to always consult with their health care provider before starting any diet, supplement or exercise programs. What Are Nutraceuticals? The term “nutraceutical” dates back to 1989, when physician Stephen DeFelice, founder and chairman of the Foundation for Innovation in Medicine, coined the term to describe products derived from food sources that offer extra health benefits along with the basic nutritional value of foods. So what exactly are nutraceutical supplements? In short, for a product to be considered a nutraceutical, it must: Be derived from a food source Offer additional health benefits beyond general, basic nutrition The medical and health industry of today has embraced the term as the inspiration for several products and options for treating illnesses. Nutraceuticals have become a billion-dollar industry in the U.S., Europe and Japan. So what has everyone so interested in this product? Nutraceuticals can control symptoms, may reduce the risk of chronic disease, may aid in the treatment of disease and promote general well-being. Many nutraceuticals are widely recognized for joint and spine problems, such as chondroitin sulfate, fish oils, glucosamine sulfate and an herb known as Boswellia. A nutraceutical product may offer a single nutrient or multiple ingredients together. They may also come in the form of herbal products or be genetically engineered as designer food. Processed foods with added nutrients can also contain nutraceuticals. Examples of Nutraceuticals Nutraceuticals include: Carotenoids, such as lycopene Dietary enzymes, such as papain and bromelain Hydrolyzed proteins Mineral supplements Phytonutrients, such as resveratrol Prebiotic and probiotic supplements Dietary fiber supplements Vitamin supplements Herbal products, such as: Echinacea Ginger Garlic Ginseng Onion Licorice root Turmeric Many consumers may already have these products in their homes without even realizing they are nutraceuticals. While dietary supplements are used to supplement a diet, nutraceuticals go beyond supplementing to reduce the risk of disease and aid treatment. With the increasing interest in preventive healthcare in the western world, it’s no wonder this industry is growing so rapidly. Contact Us! How Do Nutraceuticals Work? Nutraceuticals may provide consumers with added nutrition. If a consumer’s diet isn’t supplying them with all the nutrients and vitamins their body needs, then nutraceuticals can help. Nutraceuticals can be especially important if a consumer is managing an injury or illness or if they are putting extra physical strain on their body, as these situations can increase the number of nutrients our bodies need. Metabolism is a process that breaks down the nutrients in our food to produce energy. Nutrients like proteins, carbohydrates and fats provide energy, while nutrients like vitamins, electrolytes, minerals and water help our bodies maintain healthy metabolisms. Having enough nutrients allows the organs and systems in our bodies to function properly and may aid in healing wounds or injuries thoroughly and quickly. Not having the right amount of nutrients can mean our bodies will take longer to heal or injuries may even worsen. A healthy diet is one of the best ways to ensure we maintain good health and should contain all the nutrients our bodies need to keep functioning well. If your diet isn’t providing enough nutrients for your body, then consider supplementing with nutraceuticals. Nearly half of Americans take at least one prescription drug, and many grow tired of relying on pharmaceuticals or long to incorporate a more holistic approach when it comes to their health. That’s where nutraceuticals come in. Difference Between Nutraceuticals and Pharmaceuticals What is the difference between a nutraceutical and a pharmaceutical? A pharmaceutical is a human-made imitation of a natural substance the body needs to fight disease, stay healthy and provide the body with needed ingredients, while nutraceuticals are standardized nutrients. While the two product types may work together, there are significant differences between them. Regulation The EU has been introducing legislation over the past few years that will replace many national laws with the intent of harmonizing natural health legislation. Regulations are made with the goal of: Effectively protecting consumers Enabling the free movement of goods in the EU Regulation is a major difference between nutraceuticals and pharmaceuticals. While you almost always need a prescription from a healthcare provider to obtain pharmaceuticals, you don’t typically need a prescription for nutraceuticals. For many pharmaceuticals, consumers must follow their medical doctor’s guidance in regards to usage. In contrast, most nutraceuticals don’t require medical supervision, however, it is always recommended to consult a physician for specifics on individual contraindications when adding or ending any nutraceutical or pharmaceutical. Nutraceuticals aren’t regulated or clinically proven and extensively studied like pharmaceuticals. With nutraceuticals, people can be proactive with their health and address health issues in attempts to reduce risk factors. Because nutraceuticals are not regulated by the FDA final package labeling suggesting any health claims must include the following messaging contained within a black box: “This statement has not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.” There is frequently a generally accepted expectation of a nutraceutical within scientific evidence supporting a claim as persuasive but
