Medicinal Plant Research 2025, Vol.15, No.1, 20-31 http://hortherbpublisher.com/index.php/mpr 26 Additionally, consumption of certain functional foods has been linked to improved parameters of metabolic syndrome. For instance, "superfoods" such as blueberries, cranberries, garlic, and ginger have shown evidence for human benefit in intervention trials conducted under controlled conditions, although the evidence is weak and inconclusive (Driessche et al., 2018). These foods, however, would be likely to prevent metabolic syndrome through reduced waist circumference, blood pressure, and HDL cholesterol, triacylglycerol, or glucose levels. 6 Potential of Functional Foods in Cancer Prevention 6.1 Antioxidants and anticancer mechanisms Functional foods with antioxidant properties form a significant pathway to inhibit cancer by clearing away the reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reducing oxidative stress, a proven determinant of cancer. The polyphenols, carotenoids, and vitamins found in fruits, vegetables, and spices have been observed to control multiple cellular processes that result in cancer development. For instance, bioactive molecules present in functional foods can influence gene expression, cell cycle regulation, and apoptosis and hence inhibit the proliferation and metastasis of cancer cells (Nosrati et al., 2017; Fagbohun et al., 2023; Marino et al., 2023). Also, such antioxidants will enhance the body's internal defense system by scavenging free radicals and repairing damaged DNA. They also modulate signaling cascades such as NF-κB, MAPK, and PI3K, which are essential in the mediation of inflammation and carcinogenesis. Synergistic interactions of such compounds, just like in whole foods, are more effective than individual phytochemicals and hence the importance of consuming a variety diet with a lot of functional foods to enhance cancer prevention (Liu, 2003; Nosrati et al., 2017; Teibo et al., 2021). 6.2 Clinical studies on preventive effects There have been a number of clinical trials that have supported the efficacy of functional foods against cancer. For example, nutrition interventions involving high dietary intake of fruits, vegetables, and spices have been correlated with reduced risk for various cancers including colorectal, breast, and liver cancers. Clinical trials are the best example that bioactive compounds of these foods can inhibit cancer occurrence through apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, and immune system modulation (Kammath et al., 2020; Teibo et al., 2021; Marino et al., 2023). In particular, specific spices such as turmeric, garlic, and ginger have been studied extremely well for anticancer effects. Clinical trials have provided evidence of tumor growth inhibition by these spices and also enhancement of the effectiveness of standard chemotherapy for cancer, thereby reducing side effects and quality of life in cancer patients. But while the findings above are promising, there are more studies needed to better understand the mechanisms and to optimize the utilization of functional foods in cancer prevention (Kammath et al., 2020; Fagbohun et al., 2023). 6.3 Applications in different types of cancer Functional foods have also been shown to prevent various cancers with varied mechanisms of action. For instance, in cervical cancer, the bioactive food constituents may induce apoptosis and block the microtubular network, hence stopping cancer cell proliferation. Similarly, in breast cancer, the constituents may control signaling cascades and block specific genes that are involved in tumor growth and metastasis (Teibo et al., 2021; Zhou, 2024). Functional foods have been found to cause autophagy and generate reactive oxygen species (ROS), which lead to the death of cancer cells in liver cancer. The multifaceted mechanism through which functional foods exert anticancer effects indicates their role in the future as complementary therapy in treating cancer. With the inclusion of a combination of functional foods in the diet, individuals can utilize the bioactive compounds to reduce the risk of cancer and improve general health (Liu, 2003; Golovinskaia and Wang, 2021; Teibo et al., 2021). 7 Health-Promoting Effects of Functional Foods 7.1 Gut health and microbiome regulation Functional foods are also critical in the maintenance of gut health and regulation of the microbiome. Some of the most critical ingredients include prebiotics, probiotics, and dietary fibers that aid in maintaining the balance and
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