The little time we spend on planning and preparing a healthy and balanced diet, fast food and the tempting choice of snacks of all kinds are to reduce the consumption of fruits and vegetables, among other products essential. This is an increase of cholesterol, obesity and lack of nutrients. The intention to avoid these harmful effects is causing the rise of so-called functional foods, those that provide beneficial substances to the body, such as minerals or vitamins, which have been enriched, apart from its own nutrients.

Emerged in Japan in the 80s: with increasing life expectancy of the population, increased health spending, so it is proposed to help health through food. These serve to prevent various diseases, vitamin deficiencies and mitigate cardiovascular problems and even birth defects.

Today we find these products in any supermarket and its consumption is becoming more widespread in the population, which began to be aware of the close relationship between diet and health. “In recent years, has found that foods that offer additional benefits to health have grown around 15% and is expected to soon reach 30%,” explains Ana Palencia, director of nutrition at Unilever Bestfoods Spain. They are particularly suitable for children, pregnant women and elderly, and those that present states of deficiency of certain nutrients.

In Europe, poorly regulated
While Japan, the country that created this new trend in food has developed legislation in this regard, in Europe there is still no clear regulations regarding these products. If set to change the labeling specify, along with the natural components of the product, the additive and its proportion. They may not advertise properties on the grounds of prevention, treatment or cure of diseases.

It is expected regular information on the beneficial effects in the body. To do this, there must be evidence that identified a relationship between the components added to the product and its positive impact on health. Besides, will not prejudice the consumer or mislead you about the type of product being marketed.

Milk, a wide range
When buying milk, it is usual to choose between full, semi and skimmed, however, there are many more possibilities. First, we find the enriched with calcium. It is recommended for older people with weakened bones, or women after menopause, because they have a higher risk of osteoporosis. Some with iron, essential to avoid anemia.

Those that have added folic acid will be appropriate for pregnant women, because they reduce the possibility of deformation of the fetus. Omega-3 fatty acids and oleic acid help reduce cholesterol and heart disease. Vitamins are also incorporated as usual.

Likewise, other contributing phosphorus, essential for muscle function, and zinc, with a prominent role in the immune system. Other varieties incorporating products such as royal jelly, which will help replenish energy after physical exertion, and aloe vera, which improves the immune system. Younger children can also enjoy the benefits of functional foods. For baby milk they produce induction and then with various vitamins and minerals.

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