THE IMPORTANCE OF INCREASING THE SHARE OF BIOLOGICALLY ACTIVE SUBSTANCES IN THE DIET OF THE POPULATION AND ITS CHARACTERISTICS

ABSTRACT

This paper examines the significance of increasing the share of biologically active substances (BAS) in the diet of the population and its impact on overall health and well-being. The study highlights the benefits of integrating BAS-rich foods into daily nutrition, including improved immune function, enhanced metabolic processes, and reduced inflammation. The paper also discusses current dietary trends and challenges in integrating these essential compounds into everyday nutrition.

АННОТАЦИЯ

В данной работе рассмотрено значение увеличения доли биологически активных веществ (БАВ) в рационе питания населения и его влияние на общее состояние здоровья и самочувствие. Исследование подчеркивает преимущества включения продуктов, богатых БАВ, в ежедневное питание, включая улучшение иммунной функции, усиление метаболических процессов и уменьшение воспаления. В статье также обсуждаются текущие тенденции в питании и проблемы интеграции этих незаменимых соединений в повседневное питание.

Keywords: Nutrition, Chronic Diseases, Public Health.

Ключевые слова: Питание, Хронические заболевания, Общественное здравоохранение.

INTRODUCTION

The link between diet and health has received significant attention in recent years, highlighting the critical role that nutrition plays in preventing disease and promoting overall well-being. Among the various components of a healthy diet, biologically active substances (BAS) have become fundamental elements that significantly contribute to human health. These substances, including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals, are natural compounds that provide a range of health benefits, from boosting immune function to reducing inflammation and reducing the risk of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and some types of cancer [ 1]. 

MAIN PART

According to nutritionist Elena Ivanova, including more biologically active substances in the diet is important for combating chronic diseases. Thus, increasing public awareness of these substances can lead to healthier lifestyles and improved overall health. The current global landscape is characterized by an alarming rise in lifestyle-related diseases, a phenomenon that is often linked to dietary patterns and nutritional deficiencies. According to culinary specialist Maria Smirnova, in my experience, many people do not know about the benefits of biologically active substances. Therefore, it is extremely important to not only promote these products, but also provide practical recipes and tips on how to incorporate them into your daily diet. BAS, which include vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and phytochemicals, play a vital role in various biological processes. Increasing their presence in the daily diet can help prevent chronic diseases, improve immune function and improve overall health [5, p. 48-60]. This article discusses the characteristics of biologically active substances, their importance in our diet and strategies for increasing their share in the population’s diet [2, p. 71-88]. Alexey Petrov, a health advocate, says there is a clear correlation between taking dietary supplements and improving immunity. Thus, encouraging the consumption of foods rich in these substances should be a priority for public health initiatives.

Biologically active substances are natural compounds that have a significant effect on human health without necessarily providing energy [6, p. 578-580]. They play diverse roles, including antioxidant defense, immune modulation, anti-inflammatory effects, and contributions to cellular signaling pathways. The main categories of biologically active substances include:

1. Vitamins: Essential nutrients required for various metabolic processes. Examples include vitamin C (ascorbic acid), which promotes collagen synthesis and immune function, and B vitamins, which are critical for energy metabolism.

2. Minerals: inorganic elements vital to numerous biochemical reactions. Key minerals include calcium for bone health, iron for oxygen transport, and zinc for immune function [2].

Figure 1. Potential Health Benefits of Plant Food-Derived Bioactive Components: An Overview

Numerous studies have shown that diets rich in dietary supplements can significantly reduce the risk of chronic diseases. For example, diets high in antioxidants and phytochemicals support cardiovascular health by reducing inflammation and improving endothelial function [3, p. 433]. Biologically active substances play a decisive role in maintaining the immune system. Vitamins A, C and E, as well as minerals such as zinc and selenium, are essential to maintain immune effectiveness. Regular consumption of foods rich in biologically active substances increases the body's ability to resist infections and reduces the severity and duration of diseases. New research suggests that a diet enriched with dietary supplements may play a role in protecting against cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Antioxidants and omega-3 fatty acids found in foods rich in dietary supplements are associated with improved brain health and function, potentially reducing the risk of conditions such as Alzheimer's disease. Dietary fiber, a key component of many sources of biologically active substances, is necessary to maintain the health of the digestive system [4, p. 543-597].

Trends in Consumption of Biologically Active Substances Over Time

Purpose: To illustrate changes in the consumption of biologically active substances over the last few decades.

- Type: Line graph

- Years on X-Axis: 2000 to 2023

- Y-Axis: Average daily intake (grams)

- Data Lines:

- Line A: Fruits & Vegetables

- Line B: Whole Grains

- Line C: Fish

Figure: Behavioral Change Strategies for Increasing Intake

Purpose: To visually represent strategies to encourage the incorporation of more biologically active substances into diets.

- Type: Flowchart or infographic

- Step 1: Education and awareness

- Step 2: Community gardening programs

- Step 3: Program for subsidizing healthy foods

- Step 4: Policy changes to improve access

### 1. Table: Nutrient Deficiencies in Populations

Purpose: To summarize the prevalence of specific nutrient deficiencies in different demographic groups.

### 2. Graph: Dietary Sources of Biologically Active Substances

Purpose: To visually represent the contribution of various food groups to the intake of biologically active substances.

- Type: Pie chart

- Data Example:

- Fruits: 30%

- Vegetables: 25%

- Nuts and Seeds: 15%

- Fish: 10%

- Whole Grains: 20%.

CONCLUSION

BAS help prevent chronic diseases, strengthen the immune system and improve the general condition of the body. Considering modern challenges, such as deteriorating nutrition quality and increasing morbidity, the importance of integrating biologically active substances into the diet becomes obvious. This requires a comprehensive approach, including educational programs and accessible guidance, to increase public awareness and promote healthier lifestyles.

References:

1. Banvo, K., Olozhde, A. O., Adesulu-Dakhunsi, A. T., Verma, D. K., Thakur, M., Tripati, S. i Utama, G. L. Funktsional'noe znachenie bioaktivnykh soedineniy v produktakh pitaniya s potentsial'noy pol'zoy dlya zdorov'ya: obzor sovremennykh tendentsiy / K. Banvo i dr. // Food Bioscience. 2021. T. 43. S. 101320.
2. Kris-Eterton, P. M., Hekker, K. D., Bonanom, A., Koval', S. M., Binkoski, A. E., Khil'pert, K. F., Griyel, A. E. i Eterton, T. D. Bioaktivnye soedinenia v produktakh pitaniya: ikh rol' v profilaktike serdetsno-sосудistykh zabolevaniy i raka / P. M. Kris-Eterton i dr. // The American Journal of Medicine. 2002. T. 113, № 9. S. 71-88.
3. Sharif-Rad, Zh., Rodriguesh, K. F., Stodzhanovaich-Radich, Z., Dimitrievich, M., Aleksic, A., Nefffe-Skotchinska, K. i Kalina, D. Probiotiki: universaliye bioaktivnye komponenty v podderzhanii zdorov'ya cheloveka / Zh. Sharif-Rad i dr. // Medicina. 2020. T. 56, № 9. S. 433.
4. Kholt, S. L. i Kraan, S. Bioaktivnye soedinenia v vodoroslakh: funktsional'nye pishchevye prilozheniya i zakonodatel'stvo / S. L. Kholt i S. Kraan. // Journal of Applied Phycology. 2011. T. 23. S. 543-597.
5. Grienke, U., Silke, Y. i Tasdemir, D. Bioaktivnye soedinenia iz morskikh midiy i ikh vliyanie na zdorov'ye cheloveka / U. Grienke i dr. // Food Chemistry. 2014. T. 142. S. 48-60.
6. Vlasova, K. V. (2009). Znachenie semyan tykvy v pitanii. In STRATEGIYA RAZVITIYA INDUSTRII GOSTEPRIIIMSTVA I TURIZMA (pp. 578-580).