It is the year 2001. I'll pass over the fact that by now we should be flying around in individual space cars in the manner of George Jetson. It seems a lot of people would like to think so, but the answer is no, nutrition experts say. It's a trend that causes mixed feelings for nutrition experts.
Functional foods cover a broad range.
There are enriched foods, such as cereals and breads enhanced with necessary vitamins and minerals. The fact that so many discoveries are being made about foods and their functions is very exciting, said Kathie Covard, a registered dietitian at Saint Joseph Regional Medical Center in South Bend. For example, we are learning that tomatoes have lycopene, which may reduce risk for cancer and heart disease, and that other vegetables and fruits have beneficial phytochemicals, she said. On the other hand, she worries that the trend will be for people to rely more on supplements and processed foods and less on a healthy, balanced diet. What's more, Covard said, some of these products are quite expensive, and some herbs can cause dangerous interactions with prescription drugs.