The Science Behind Nutraceuticals
Introduction
The supplement market is overflowing with collagen powders, vitamin gummies, adaptogens, and “superfoods” claiming to boost skin glow, energy, and immunity. But how do you separate hype from science? Welcome to nutraceuticals: supplements derived from food sources that are precision-formulated, clinically tested, and used as functional interventions to support health and wellness. At NuHealth Mumbai, nutraceuticals are part of data-driven, personalised protocols designed for real health results, far beyond common over-the-counter supplements.
What Are Nutraceuticals?
Nutraceuticals are products derived from foods that provide medical or health benefits, including disease prevention and treatment. This term, blending “nutrition” and “pharmaceutical,” reflects their role as functional, therapeutically dosed interventions — not just vitamins. Key characteristics include:
- Therapeutic-grade, with clinically effective doses
- Third-party tested for purity and potency
- Bioavailable for optimal absorption
- Used only after comprehensive lab diagnostics, not by guesswork
Nutraceuticals vs. Over-the-Counter Supplements
| OTC Supplements | Clinical Nutraceuticals |
|---|---|
| Often low-dose with poor absorption | Therapeutic-grade potency |
| Mass-produced, generic formulations | Targeted, condition-specific |
| Contain fillers or additives | Lab-tested for purity |
| Not guided by lab data | Prescribed after diagnostic assessment |
| Marketed for profit | Used to deliver measurable results |
When Do We Use Nutraceuticals at NuHealth?
Prescribed only after evaluation, including blood work, hormonal panels, gut analysis, or body composition scans, nutraceuticals help with:
- Hormonal balance: Myo-inositol for PCOS, DIM + calcium-d-glucarate for estrogen detox, magnesium + B6 for PMS/mood
- Gut health: Digestive enzymes, targeted probiotics, glutamine, and zinc carnosine for gut lining repair
- Skin health: Astaxanthin, vitamin C, collagen peptides, zinc, and omega-3s for acne-prone or ageing skin, glutathione for pigmentation and detox
- Immune support: Liposomal vitamin C, quercetin, NAC, medicinal mushrooms (reishi, cordyceps)
- Energy, brain, and longevity: NAD+ precursors (NMN, NR), CoQ10, methylated B-complex vitamins
The Problem with Random Supplement Use
Many people take multivitamins or adaptogens but still feel tired. Common issues include:
- Incorrect nutrient forms (e.g., folic acid vs methylfolate)
- Insufficient dosages
- Negative nutrient interactions when combined without guidance
- Ingredients like biotin that can interfere with lab tests That’s why NuHealth uses lab-driven, personalised protocols, not guesswork.
How NuHealth Prescribes Nutraceuticals
NuHealth’s approach includes:
- In-depth diagnostics (blood, hormones, gut, minerals)
- Customised, doctor-led prescriptions
- Use of medical-grade nutraceutical products only
- Continuous tracking and retesting to ensure efficacy
Important Safety Notes
NuHealth does not recommend:
- Self-diagnosing based on social media
- Purchasing cheap supplements online
- Taking multiple pills without professional guidance
Your body deserves precise, safe, and effective supplementation — never a gamble.
Ready to Know What YOU Need?
NuHealth’s functional nutrition experts analyse your labs and lifestyle to build tailored nutraceutical plans to help you glow, digest, sleep, and think better.
FAQs
-
What are nutraceuticals?
ANS. Nutraceuticals are products derived from food sources with clinically supported health benefits beyond basic nutrition.
-
How are nutraceuticals different from regular supplements?
ANS. Nutraceuticals offer therapeutic doses, are lab-tested for purity, and are prescribed based on diagnostics, unlike typical OTC supplements.
-
When should I consider using nutraceuticals?
ANS. They are used after comprehensive lab tests reveal specific deficiencies or health needs to provide targeted support.
-
Can nutraceuticals improve gut health?
ANS. Yes — specific probiotics and digestive enzymes support the gut lining and microbiome balance.
- Are nutraceuticals safe?
ANS. When prescribed by healthcare professionals and used as directed, nutraceuticals are generally safe and effective. - Why shouldn’t I self-prescribe supplements?
ANS. Self-diagnosis risks incorrect dosing, harmful interactions, and masking symptoms; professional guidance ensures safety and results.
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