Unit 19. Functional Foods

Learning Objectives

By the end of this lesson, students will be able to:
- Explain what functional foods are
- Identify examples of functional foods
- Understand the health benefits of functional foods
- Use Relative clauses and noun phrases correctly

Theory

Functional foods are foods that provide health benefits beyond basic nutrition. They contain biologically active components that may improve health or reduce the risk of disease.

Examples of functional foods include:
- Yoghurt with probiotics (beneficial bacteria)
- Oat products with beta-glucan (helps lower cholesterol)
- Fatty fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids
- Fortified foods with added vitamins and minerals
- Green tea with antioxidants

The demand for functional foods is growing because consumers want to improve their health through diet. Food companies are developing new products that combine good taste with health benefits.

However, functional foods are not medicines. They should be part of a balanced diet and healthy lifestyle. Scientific evidence is important to support the health claims of functional foods.

Key Terms

functional foods, probiotics, beta-glucan, omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, fortified foods, health benefits, balanced diet, biologically active components

Exercise

1. Answer the questions:
1. What are functional foods?
2. Give three examples of functional foods.
3. Why is the demand for functional foods growing?
4. Are functional foods the same as medicines?

2. Match the food with its functional component:
1. Yoghurt a. Omega-3
2. Oat products b. Probiotics
3. Fatty fish c. Beta-glucan
4. Green tea d. Antioxidants

Mini Quiz

1. Functional foods provide benefits beyond ________.
a) taste
b) basic nutrition
c) price

2. Probiotics are found in ________.
a) bread
b) yoghurt
c) sugar

3. Functional foods should be part of a ________ diet.
a) only special
b) balanced
c) low-calorie only