Bioactive compounds
Bioactive Compounds
Bioactive compounds (pronunciation: /ˈbaɪoʊˌæktɪv ˈkɒmpaʊndz/) are naturally occurring chemical compounds that are found in small amounts in plants and certain foods. They have actions in the body that can promote good health. They are found in fruits, vegetables, nuts, teas, wines, and spices.
Etymology
The term "bioactive" is derived from the Greek word "bios" meaning "life" and the English word "active". The term "compound" comes from the Latin "componere", meaning "to put together".
Types of Bioactive Compounds
Bioactive compounds can be classified into several types:
- Phenolic compounds: These are a large group of bioactive compounds that include flavonoids, phenolic acids, and tannins. They have antioxidant properties and can help prevent diseases such as cancer and heart disease.
- Alkaloids: These are nitrogen-containing compounds that have a wide range of biological activities. They are found in many plants and can have effects on the nervous system.
- Terpenoids: These are a large and diverse class of naturally occurring organic chemicals. They have a wide range of biological activities and are found in many plants.
- Saponins: These are a class of chemical compounds that are found in particular abundance in various plant species. They have a variety of biological activities.
Health Benefits
Bioactive compounds have been found to have several health benefits. They can act as antioxidants, reducing the risk of chronic diseases. They can also have anti-inflammatory, anti-cancer, and anti-diabetic properties. Some bioactive compounds can also improve gut health by acting as prebiotics.
Related Terms
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Bioactive compounds
- Wikipedia's article - Bioactive compounds
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