What are bioactive substances?

A bioactive substance is a chemical found in small amounts in plants and some foods. The benefit of the active ingredient is that it can promote good health.

What are bioactive substances? Bioactive compounds are extranutrients that are normally present in small amounts in foods. They are being reviewed by intensive researchers to assess their impact on health. The results of numerous epidemiological studies showing the protective effects of plant-based diets on cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer are the driving force behind studies on the usefulness of these drugs. bioactive substances for health.
In medical dictionaries, a bioactive substance is defined as a substance that causes a reaction in living tissue. A biologically active compound that has a direct effect on living organisms. These effects can be positive or negative depending on the substance, dose, or bioavailability. These compounds have wide-ranging effects, starting with the maintenance of good health even having a reversible effect, or being dangerous even causing death. The dose consumed of bioactive compounds often determines whether effects are positive or detrimental.

Many bioactive compounds have been detected in the foods we consume such as: grains, legumes, nuts, olive oil, vegetables, fruits, tea and red wine and compounds Phenolic substances present in these foods have antioxidant properties. Several studies have demonstrated a protective effect against thrombosis and tumorigenesis.
Various phytoestrogens found in soybeans, flaxseed oil, whole grains, fruits and vegetables have antioxidant properties and favorable effects on other CVD risk factors and in culture models cancerous cells and animals.

Hydroxytyrosol is one of many phenols found in olives. This is a strong antioxidant. Resveratrol, found in nuts and red wine, has antioxidant, antithrombotic, anti-inflammatory, and carcinogenic inhibitory properties. Lycopene, a potent antioxidant carotenoid found in tomatoes and other fruits, is thought to have a protective effect against prostate and other cancers and inhibit tumor cell growth. in animals.
Organosulfur compounds in garlic and onions, isothiocyanates in cruciferous vegetables and monoterpenes in citrus fruits, cherries, and herbs have anticancer effects in experimental models as well as cardioprotective effects circuit .

Many bioactive compounds appear to have beneficial effects on health. However, more scientific research is needed before we have enough evidence to begin making science-based dietary recommendations. Even so, building a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, oils and nuts is always appreciated for maintaining good health.
Therefore, to have good health and limit the risk of common diseases, we need to give ourselves a proper diet and exercise. If necessary, you can consult a doctor for the most practical advice.

Source: cancer.gov - sciencedirect.com - pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov - researchgate.net