Preface Free

We are pleased to present Evidence-based Nutraceuticals and Functional Foods, a book that serves as both a textbook and a reference for those interested in the fields of nutraceuticals and functional foods. This book explores the dynamic fields of nutraceuticals and functional foods and their influence on human health. The aim is to connect traditional knowledge with modern scientific research by providing a balanced view of the role that functional foods play in promoting health, reducing the risk of aging-associated diseases and disorders and enhancing overall wellness. The chapters cover important groups of bioactive dietary components including dietary antioxidants, bioactive peptides, health beneficial polysaccharides and bioactive organosulfur compounds. Additionally, this book addresses crucial nutritional and biological topics relevant to the research and development of nutraceuticals and functional foods, such as the gut microbiota and delivery systems. Furthermore, several chapters introduce essential scientific principles and methodologies critical for advancing research in this area. Each chapter also discusses the safety and side effects of nutraceuticals and functional foods concerning specific groups of bioactive components. Our goal is to equip readers with both foundational insights as well as advanced methodologies in the study of nutraceuticals and functional foods.

The motivation for this book arises from a significant gap in the field. Despite the growing interest in nutraceuticals and functional foods, there is a notable lack of comprehensive evidence-based textbooks that systematically explore these bioactive compounds, their mechanisms of action and their associated health benefits, in addition to the essential considerations and steps for their research and development. This book may serve as a resource that integrates the theoretical foundations of functional foods with practical applications grounded in scientific evidence for educators and researchers. Each chapter, authored by respective experts, is crafted to provide the latest information on addressing critical health challenges such as inflammation, oxidative stress, and metabolic disorders.

The text is organized into 16 chapters, starting with an overview of the uses and mechanisms of bioactive compounds, followed by detailed discussions on specific functional ingredients like flavonoids, terpenoids, and non-digestible polysaccharides. We also explore specific topics such as enzyme inhibitors for weight management, advanced methodologies (high-throughput assays) for nutraceutical research and innovative delivery systems that enhance bioavailability and efficacy. This comprehensive approach ensures that readers gain a clear understanding of key components and recent advancements in functional food research. To facilitate teaching and learning, we have included questions at the end of each chapter.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all contributors who have shared their expertise and knowledge, making this work possible. Special thanks to Dr Joanne Toy Yi Hui, who played a pivotal role in putting together this book in a timely manner. We also sincerely thank our institutions, the National University of Singapore and the University of Maryland College Park, for their support and encouragement throughout this endeavor. Additionally, we would like to extend our heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated students and research team members who have contributed their time, energy, and insights to this textbook. Their hard work and enthusiasm were instrumental in shaping the depth and scope of each chapter. Furthermore, we also wish to express our appreciation to the reviewers and editors for their invaluable contributions in enhancing and refining each chapter. We hope that this book can serve as an essential resource for students, researchers, and industry professionals hoping to explore the compelling world of nutraceuticals and functional foods. As the fields of nutraceuticals and functional foods develop rapidly, we are prepared to revise this book periodically to keep the contents updated. We welcome readers to give constructive feedback for consideration in the second edition. Thank you!

Dejian Huang and Liangli (Lucy) Yu