Nutraceuticals: What’s the difference between them and supplements?

Those seeking to treat chronic pain know how important it is to seek complementary therapies, such as physical exercise and physiotherapy. In addition, a treatment that brings benefits to the patient is that which involves nutraceuticals. But do you know what the difference is between them and supplements?

The term nutraceutical is used to name a specific nutrient present in a food, however, it is not the food in its natural state. But it is also not a common medicine; in fact, it can be found in health food stores.

So, if you want to know more about nutraceuticals and if there is a difference between them and dietary supplements, check out this post!

What are nutraceuticals?

Nutraceuticals are food products or nutritional supplements that have beneficial properties for health, in addition to providing essential nutrients for the body. Thus, they help to supplement something that is deficient in our body, be it a vitamin, mineral or even amino acids.

Nowadays, they are gaining popularity as a natural option for promoting health and well-being, and they can be found in various forms, such as tablets, capsules, powders and drinks.

Therefore, this bioactive compound has a greater quantity of what is extracted from a plant, fruit, or nature itself. However, it is important to highlight that nutraceuticals do not replace a balanced, healthy diet and should not be used as the only form of treatment for diseases.

What is the difference between supplements and nutraceuticals?

Supplements are products that aim to supplement the diet, providing nutrients that may be lacking in the diet. Therefore, they are composed of vitamins, minerals, proteins, carbohydrates, among other nutrients.

Nutraceuticals, on the other hand, are food products that have beneficial properties for health, in addition to providing essential nutrients for the body. They are composed of active ingredients, such as vitamins, minerals, amino acids, fatty acids and antioxidants, which can help in the prevention and treatment of diseases.

The main difference between supplements and nutraceuticals is that nutraceuticals have beneficial properties beyond simple nutritional supplementation. In other words, while supplements are intended to address nutritional deficiencies, nutraceuticals are aimed at promoting health and preventing diseases.

In short, nutraceuticals are obtained from food, such as lycopene obtained from tomatoes. A dietary supplement is a mixture of isolated substances that incorporate micronutrients that are deficient into the body.

However, it is important to remember that both can be used together to supplement the diet and maintain the health of the body.

Do I need a prescription to take nutraceuticals?

It is not necessary to have a prescription to take nutraceuticals, as they are considered dietary supplements and can be purchased without a prescription in stores specializing in natural products, pharmacies and supermarkets.

However, it is always important to consult a doctor or nutritionist before starting to take any dietary supplement, including nutraceuticals, to assess the need and appropriate dosage for your body.

Consumption should be guided by a doctor or nutritionist, as it contains high concentrations of the compound compared to the source food, which can have consequences for your health.

What are the best-known nutraceuticals?

To better understand what nutraceuticals are and their properties, check out three examples below:

Omega-3
This fatty acid is found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines and tuna, and is also consumed in the form of nutraceuticals. Omega-3 is famous for its anti-inflammatory effects and reduces the risk of heart disease, improves brain health, combats depression and anxiety, and maintains eye health.

Curcumin
Curcumin is a compound found in turmeric, a spice widely used in Indian cuisine. This nutraceutical is a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory, and has been studied in several studies for its effects in preventing diseases such as cancer, diabetes and Alzheimer’s, in addition to helping in the treatment of inflammatory diseases such as arthritis.

Probiotics
Probiotics are beneficial bacteria for the body, which are found in fermented foods such as yogurt, kefir and sauerkraut, and also in nutraceuticals. They help improve intestinal health, strengthen the immune system, regulate blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and even improve mood and mental health.

What are the possible side effects?

The possible side effects of nutraceuticals vary depending on the type of product and the person consuming it. In general, they are safe when used correctly and in recommended doses. However, it is possible that some people experience