GLOSSARY

Nutraceutical Nutraceutical is a term for food-derived compounds or products intended to provide health benefits, but it has no single research or legal definition across all countries. The name alone establishes neither efficacy nor permission to treat disease.

Being bioactive means having a biological effect; that effect is not necessarily beneficial, essential or proven to improve sport performance. Dose, chemical form, absorption and individual characteristics influence the result. A laboratory mechanism alone does not establish improved human endurance or disease prevention.

To assess a functional claim, ask which outcome was studied, in whom, at what dose and with which product. Findings for a purified compound or a high dose do not automatically apply to every food containing a small amount. A specific scientific claim differs from marketing terms such as 'boosting' or 'for athletes'.

The amount consumed is not necessarily the amount absorbed or used by the body. Chemical form, meal composition, food structure, and gastrointestinal condition influence bioavailability. Presence in a composition table therefore does not guarantee an identical biological response.

For example, a polyphenol extract may carry this label. Evaluate the extract identity, active-compound amount and specific human outcome rather than treating the word nutraceutical as evidence.

Food is more than the sum of listed components. Cellular arrangement, fibre, fat, and protein influence nutrient release and digestion. Whole and ground forms of a seed, for example, may behave differently during digestion despite sharing the same starting material.

Food composition tables report measured or average components for a defined food. Product type, crop variety, cooking, and fortification can create differences. For a packaged product, its own label is usually more directly relevant than a value for a merely similar food.

Sports planning generally starts with varied foods and adequate intake. A supplement may help in a defined situation, such as an identified intake gap or assessed need, but cannot replace sufficient food and energy. An ingredient name alone does not establish effectiveness or necessity.

References: NIH ODS · AIS