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Supplements and Functional Foods
Common Functional Foods
Mechanism of Action Effects Side Effects
Vinegar (Apple Cider Vinegar)
Fermenting yeast
exposed to sugar
(such as apple juice)
generates alcohol.
Vinegar may slow
gastric emptying,
increase satiety and
have effects upon the
microbiome.
Small studies suggest
vinegar may mildly
reduce body weight,
increase insulin
sensitivity, and reduce
postprandial glucose
levels. A systematic
review concluded
that inadequate high
quality research exists
to confirm health
benefits f rom apple
vinegar.
May promote
erosion of tooth
enamel, potentiate
gastroparesis, cause
esophagitis, bloating
and indigestion, and
potentially lower
potassium blood
levels.
Curcumin
Curcumin is a
polyphenol component
of turmeric, which is a
spice (curry powder).
Among patients with
metabolic syndrome,
a meta-analysis
suggests curcumin
may mildly reduce
body weight and waist
circumference.
Among the rare side
effects reported
include nausea,
gastrointestinal/
abdominal pain, and
headache.
Ginger
Ginger is a member
of the Zingiberaceae
family, and a spice rich
in volatile oils.
A meta-analysis
suggests ginger
intake may reduce
body weight and waist
to hip ratio.
The rare side effects
include bad taste,
heartburn, abdominal
discomfort, weight
gain, headache, dry
mouth, and nausea.
Dairy products
Dairy are milk-derived
foods, containing
sugars (lactose), fats,
proteins, and calcium.
A meta-analysis
suggests increased
dairy consumption
with an energy-
restricted diet may
result in lower body
weight and fat mass.
Dairy products
may cause nausea,
bloating, and diarrhea,
especially among
patients with lactose
intolerance, as well as
potential worsening
of acne.
(cont'd)
