Title : Nutraceuticals and functional foods for healthy ageing and brain health
Abstract:
The global nutraceuticals market is predicted to grow at a bigger rate now post pandemic 2020, with nutraceuticals gaining popularity globally due to the rising awareness of its’ numerous benefits either felt and/or clinically evidenced. The growing knowledge of these products in delaying or preventing various health disorders have increased their demands among consumers who are looking for alternative and complementary pathway to promote or maintain overall wellbeing. Recent consumer trends see consumers looking for on-the-go formats and products with multifunctional benefits. Some of the botanicals that have been clinically evidenced are, Perscicaria minor (Kesum), Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali), Labisia pumila (Kacip Fatimah). Kesum, a famous flavour ingredient in laksa (food) has nootropic, anti-inflammatory, immune enhancing and anti-wrinkling effects. It is high in antioxidants potentially the bedrock to its’ many health benefits. Tongkat Ali traditionally used and known as an aphrodisiac and energy tonic, has multifunctional attributes which are clinically proven ie. in addressing mental health, fatigue, hormonal imbalance, stress, immunity and physical strength. Kacip Fatimah, a herb popular for women’s well-being has demonstrated improvement in menopausal symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance. The three ingredients are poised to address healthy ageing, mental health, stress and overall wellbeing.
Audience Take Away:
These natural ingredients are traditionally used herbs/medicinal plants that have been validated by science and clinical research
- It will educate the public to make decisions on their health based on scientific facts and not sales gimmick
- This research can be used by other faculty to expand their research or teaching to qualify an ingredient based on their mechanism of action in the body
- This information is useful particularly as we address a globally ageing population to be independent and heathy as they age to not only increase life span but heath span.
