Functional Foods in Enhancing Immune Response

Functional foods have become increasingly recognized for their ability to deliver health benefits beyond basic nutrition, emerging as a critical strategy in enhancing immune response, preventing disease, and promoting overall well-being. With global challenges such as emerging diseases, aging populations, and rising healthcare demands, the role of these bioactive-enriched foods in supporting immunity has never been more significant. Functional Foods in Enhancing Immune Response offers a comprehensive exploration of the interplay between functional foods and immune health. Through ten detailed chapters, the book provides insights into the nutritional, biochemical, and physiological roles of functional foods in optimizing immune function and addressing specific health challenges. Chapter 1 introduces the concept of functional foods, detailing their evolution, definitions, and regulatory frameworks. Chapter 2 highlights the link between nutrition and immunity, focusing on the effects of essential nutrients like vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants on immune function. Chapters 3 and 4 delve into the roles of hydrocolloids, lipids, and the gut-immune axis, emphasizing how bioactive ingredients like probiotics and prebiotics enhance gut health and fortify immune defenses. The book transitions to specific health concerns in subsequent chapters. Chapter 5 examines functional foods in mitigating coronary heart disease risks, while Chapter 6 explores their role in cancer prevention through anti-inflammatory and detoxifying properties. Chapters 7 and 8 focus on antiviral defense and skin health, showcasing how bioactive compounds bolster resilience against infections and inflammatory conditions. Aging-related immune decline is addressed in Chapter 9, with an emphasis on calcium-rich and antioxidant-enriched foods to enhance bone strength and immune function in older adults. Chapter 10 concludes with emerging plant-based functional foods and their transformative potential as immune enhancers. This book serves as an essential resource for healthcare professionals, researchers, and nutritionists, offering practical insights into the role of functional foods in promoting health and addressing key global health challenges.