Nutraceuticals and Nutraceutical Supplementation Criteria in Cancer: A Literature Survey

Abstract

Nutraceuticals are natural and bioactive products with food value to keep energy balance in the body and promise substantial therapeutic value in several diseases. Major nutraceuticals are now part of nutrition supplements at nonprescription counters and their self-prescription is increased at large scale. The current literature suggests the nutraceutical use in most of cancer prevention and management. The biochemical mechanism of nutraceuticals is poorly reported and most of the literature indicates the success of nutaceuticals in experimental animals. Broadly nutraceuticals are antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals and dietary fibers. Most of the nutraceuticals are derived from plants and animal origin and act as biochemical metabolites either by direct intermediary metabolism or regulating immunity.