How much do you know about specialised nutrition? Fret not, in this article, we will discuss further and to also share some insights from Mintel database.
Specialised nutrition refers to tailored nutritional products formulated to meet specific health requirements depending on age, physiological condition or lifestyle factors. This field is not widely discussed as it goes beyond general nutrition but it is extremely important for certain group of people.
Key Areas of Specialised Nutrition
Functional Foods
Functional foods are fortified with bioactive compounds to address health concerns beyond basic nutrition. Some of the examples include:
- Pre, pro and postbiotics for gut health
- Omega-3 fatty acids for cardiovascular health
Sports Nutrition
Sports nutrition are not just designed for athletes, but it is also applicable to fitness enthusiasts or gym goers. It is widely used to support sports performance, recovery and muscle endurance. Examples may include:
- Protein supplements for muscle repair
- Electrolytes to maintain hydration
Nutritional Support
There are a certain group of people who may strongly need specialised nutrition to fulfil their daily dietary requirements such as:
- Weight management and obesity
- Pregnancy and lactation
- Pediatrics
Allergy and Intolerance Management
Specialised nutrition plays a crucial role in managing allergies and intolerances by tailoring dietary approaches while ensuring adequate nutrition for each individual. Some of the examples include:
- Dairy-free for people with lactose intolerance
- Gluten-free products for people with celiac disease
Dietary Supplements
Multivitamin supplements may not be adequate for all individuals because there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Therefore, nutrient-rich formulations are essential for people with specific deficiencies such as:
- Iron supplements for people with anaemia
- Calcium supplements for people with low bone mass (risk factor for osteoporosis)
Innovative Launches
Below are some sharing from Mintel GNPD database:
In summary, specialised nutrition can offer a wide range of health benefits by providing tailored solutions which can contribute to a higher quality of life.
