Archive For The “Health” Category
A handful of these new Florida University modified tomatoes a day could help you easily reach your recommended daily vitamin A intake.
Researchers at the UF/IFAS College of Agricultural and Life Sciences introduced the CCS gene, found in peppers and involved in carotenoid biosynthesis, into tomatoes to increase beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A.
Carotenoids are plant pigments responsible for yellow, orange, and red colors.
The research was published in March 2026 in the Oxford University Press journal Plant Physiology, and, according to the lead researcher and UF/IFAS Professor in the Horticultural Sciences Department, Bala Rathinasabapathi, it was conducted to increase Vitamin A intake worldwide.
The genetic modification resulted in orange tomatoes with over 1,000 micrograms of Retinol Activity Equivalents (RAE), or Vitamin A, 300 percent more than the 150-250 amount found in unmodified tomatoes.
The team introduced the trait into several tomato varieties, including the heirloom Flamme Jaune. All modified tomatoes turned orange, had higher ascorbic acid (vitamin C) levels, lower sugar levels, and, according to the researcher, matched the taste of unmodified tomatoes.
The hybrids were also larger, and the plants produced higher yields than the original varieties.
“The modified fruit turned orange upon ripening, while unmodified tomatoes were bright red,” Rathinasabapathi explains. “This is because the red pigment of the tomato was converted into beta-carotene because of the gene we introduced.”
He says that, in general, tomatoes accumulate lycopene, which gives the fruit its red pigment, but not high levels of beta-carotene.
“We can confidently say our improved tomatoes are nutritionally more valuable than commercially available tomatoes and some of the food materials known for beta-carotene, such as carrots and kale,” he adds.
Tomatoes are the perfect choice for this innovation, he notes, since they are beloved and enjoyed in kitchens around the world.
“Daily consumption of 50 to 100 grams of these tomatoes can efficiently address vitamin A deficiency,” Rathinasabapathi explains. “And when we, the researchers, tasted them, fruit from modified plants was pleasant – slightly less sweet, slightly tarter, and more flavorful compared to fruit from unmodified controls.”
The university highlights that this research aims to combat the rising tide of vitamin A deficiency, a condition that hinders growth, weakens immunity and eyesight, and impacts 345 million people in 79 countries.
Elgin, MN – Honeybear Brands, a leading grower, marketer and developer of premium conventional and organic apples, pears and cherries, is urging retailers to remind shoppers to eat more fiber rich apples, in an effort to help them reduce their risk of certain cancers, including Colon Cancer.
And in addition to cancer protection, emerging research shows fiber can even protect our brains – slowing down symptoms of cognitive decline.
Colon cancer is the third most common cancer diagnosed in the U.S. and the risk is growing in younger adults – 1 in 5 diagnoses are now occurring in people under 55, and the American Cancer Society is urging regular screenings start at age 45 rather than 50.
But In the US, about 97% of men and 90% of women do not eat enough fiber. The American diet features processed food, and low-fiber, high-fat meals. A high-fiber diet can mitigate risk, providing a preventative measure against colon cancer. Apple peels are packed with fiber thanks to phytochemicals — such as flavonoids and polyphenols — which has been shown to fight certain cancers.
“We know shoppers are looking to make informed choices. They are aware of fiber’s contribution to good gut health, which supports overall health,” said Kristi Harris, Marketing Director, Honeybear Brands. “And with apples, it’s easy to sneak more fiber into our diets. Whether you take an apple with you as an on-the-go snack, slice it up instead of chips for lunch or add to a dish for dinner, apples deliver on taste and health in spades. Plus, they are very affordable.”
About Honeybear Brands
Honeybear Brands is a multi-generational grower, marketer, and innovator of premium conventional and organic apples, pears, and cherries. With operations rooted in the world’s finest growing regions, Honeybear combines sustainable farming practices with state-of-the-art packing facilities strategically located across the U.S. to deliver fresher, faster, and packed-to-order fruit. A robust year-round import program further ensures consistent supply and exceptional quality for retail partners and consumers alike.
Honeybear Brands is a wholly owned subsidiary of Wescott Agri Products.
According to market data agency Verified Market Reports, growth is driven primarily by the health trend, an increasing demand for organic and locally sourced fruits and vegetables, and a shift toward convenient, at-home, healthy eating.
North America leads in produce box demand, accounting for approximately 38 percent of total market revenue.
According to the report, in the US specifically, consumers seek consistent access to a diverse, high-quality range of national produce, which isn’t always easy depending on the state and region.
Violet Jordan, Sourcing and Fulfillment Manager at Chicago’s independent grocery store Forty Acre Fresh Market, has watched the business blossom from a subscription service into a bustling storefront.
Yet, the appetite for produce boxes remains as strong as ever.
She explained that the store opening prompted some customers to change their produce box subscriptions—from every week to every other week—so they could pick out products available at the brick-and-mortar location. To her, this reflects the audience’s commitment to healthy eating and a personal engagement with the local food system.
Forty Acre Fresh Market serves all of the Windy City, offering subscriptions that include local herbs and vegetables as well as a rotating selection of produce sourced nationwide.
“There aren’t many fruits grown in Chicago,” Jordan explained. “We’re sourcing from different growers, from here, the Midwest, Illinois—as long as it’s good quality, which is what our customers care about the most.”
But just as great-tasting produce, seasonality is also a crucial element driving subscriptions, she says.
“People want to cook in sync with the weather,” Jordan added. “Once we kind of hit fall and winter, I’m bringing in a lot more winter squashes or pumpkins. Once we get summer, I like to bring in some watermelon; a lot more fresh stuff.”
She explained that Forty Acre Fresh Market offers three types of produce boxes at different price points, which change weekly based on availability. However, the subscription model offers flexibility that greatly benefits the business, but demands a certain level of trust from the subscriber.
For example, after this year’s freezes in Florida, blueberries were scarce, so the team reached out to customers to ask about their preferred alternative—blackberries or strawberries.
“Sometimes our stock shifts with what we’re able to get in the price range—because we don’t want to get things that are super expensive and then have to pass that cost on to customers,” she explained.
Jordan noted that berries and greens are essential in the produce box, peaches are popular in summer, and watermelons are consistently well-received. She explained that a major benefit of the subscription is outsourcing decision-making to someone who understands seasonality and knows which categories and items to pick each time.
Overall, she believes the produce subscription box trend offers a unique experience, with continued demand driven by convenience and expert selection of seasonal produce.
Researchers at Texas A&M University have found that anthocyanins, the pigments responsible for the deep red color in dark sweet cherries, may help slow the spread of one of the most aggressive forms of breast cancer.
Published in the International Journal of Molecular Sciences in July 2025, the study examined the chemopreventive effects of dark sweet cherry extracts rich in anthocyanins, as well as their potential to complement chemotherapy with doxorubicin, on the spread and growth of triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC).
Using a mouse model, researchers divided test subjects into four groups: a control group, a preventive anthocyanin group, a chemotherapy-only group (using doxorubicin), and a combined treatment group. Anthocyanins were administered 1 week before implantation, and tumor growth was tracked over multiple days after tumors formed.
Results showed that treatments that included anthocyanins resulted in slower tumor growth, reduced cancer spread to multiple organs, and altered gene activity linked to metastasis and treatment resistance.
According to the research, mice given anthocyanin-rich cherry extracts before tumor development showed slower tumor growth with no noticeable side effects.
The tumor was suppressed earlier in mice taking both the dark sweet cherry extract and undergoing chemotherapy than in those only treated with chemotherapy. They also maintained their body weight, and some even gained some.
Mice treated with chemotherapy alone experienced slowed tumor growth, only later in the study, and at times lost weight.
Antocyanin treatments also reduced the spread of cancer to the lungs beyond what was observed with no treatment or chemotherapy alone, and lowered the likelihood of cancer spreading to other organs, although the number and size of tumors varied among individual animals.
Texas A&M University Research Scientist Giuliana Noratto Stevens says these findings are important because TNBC is considered one of the most aggressive cancers due to its rapid cell division, higher likelihood of spreading, and difficulty in treating.
Unlike other breast cancer types, TNBC lacks key molecular targets—such as hormone receptors and HER2 protein expression—making it more difficult to treat and more prone to spreading to organs such as the lungs and brain.
Further research is needed to better understand how these compounds behave in the body, including their absorption, safety, and effectiveness in clinical settings, Noratto emphasizes. However, she adds that the findings point to new avenues for exploring how fruit-derived compounds could contribute to cancer treatment strategies.
LYNDEN, Wash. — A simple addition to the plate may help support both metabolic and brain health as we age. New research published in the British Journal of Nutrition found that adding red raspberries to a meal improved post-meal blood sugar responses and enhanced cognitive performance within hours.
Red raspberries are naturally rich in polyphenols, plant compounds known to influence metabolic and inflammatory processes relevant to brain health. To better understand this connection, researchers tested whether adding 25 g of freeze-dried red raspberry powder to a high-carbohydrate, moderate-fat meal could influence post-meal metabolic responses and cognitive performance in adults ages 55 to 70 who are overweight or obese.
After eating the raspberry-containing meal, participants experienced a smaller rise in blood sugar and a lower insulin response compared with the control meal. Blood samples collected after the meal also showed reduced neuroinflammatory responses in laboratory testing, suggesting a potential protective effect on the brain following meals.
Participants also performed better on a standardized battery of cognitive tests within hours of eating the raspberry meal. Researchers observed improvements in learning and memory tasks, including fewer errors and more efficient problem-solving strategies.
Importantly, these benefits were observed after just one meal that included freeze-dried red raspberry powder, highlighting the potential for immediate post-meal effects.
“As we age, maintaining healthy blood sugar and cognitive function becomes increasingly important,” said Britt Burton-Freeman, PhD, MS, Director of the Center for Nutrition Research, Illinois Institute of Technology. “These results show that adding red raspberries into your daily diet may have some metabolic and cognitive benefits that are important to all of us as we age.”
Frozen Washington red raspberries make it easy to enjoy these benefits year-round. Harvested at peak ripeness and frozen within hours to help preserve flavor and nutrients, they can be quickly added to smoothies, oatmeal, sauces and everyday meals. Shoppers can find frozen Washington red raspberries in the freezer aisle by looking for “Product of the USA” on the label.
While longer-term studies are needed, the findings add to growing research showing how everyday dietary choices can help support metabolic and brain health.
ABOUT THE WASHINGTON RED RASPBERRY COMMISSION
The Washington Red Raspberry Commission (WRRC) represents the growers and processors who produce 90% of the American-grown frozen red raspberries. Grown specifically for freezing, Washington red raspberries are picked at peak ripeness and frozen within hours to preserve their bold flavor, vibrant color and natural nutrition. These berries are the product of generations of farming expertise and sustainable practices, crafted for quality, air-chilled for food safety and available year-round. WRRC promotes the taste, health benefits and versatility of frozen Washington red raspberries while sharing the story of the American farmers behind every berry. Learn more at redrazz.org.
ORLANDO, FL — For the one in three (98 million) Americans living with prediabetes, a surprising fresh fruit pairing may hold promise for heart health.
A new study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association suggests that adding one avocado and a cup of mango to your daily routine may help support key markers of cardiovascular health. Adults with prediabetes who enjoyed this combination daily for eight weeks saw improvements in blood vessel function and diastolic blood pressure – two important indicators of cardiovascular wellness.
Conducted by researchers at Illinois Institute of Technology (Illinois Tech), the study asked adults with prediabetes to follow an Avocado-Mango (AM) diet – adding one medium Hass avocado and a cup of fresh mango to their daily meals and snacks for eight weeks. A calorie-matched control group followed a similar diet, with avocado and mango replaced by calorically comparable carbohydrate-based foods. Those on the AM diet saw meaningful improvements in blood vessel function, which supports healthy circulation, and diastolic blood pressure, a key factor in long-term heart health, compared to the control group.
Blood vessel function improved significantly in participants on the AM diet. They experienced a significant increase in flow-mediated dilation (FMD) – a key measure of endothelial function (blood vessel health) – to 6.7%, compared with a decline to 4.6% in the control. This suggests a meaningful improvement.
Diastolic blood pressure also significantly improved, particularly among men. In the control group, men saw an average central blood pressure increase of 5 points (mmHg), while those on the AM diet experienced a reduction of about 1.9 points – a difference that can be clinically significant if sustained. These benefits occurred without changes in calorie intake or body weight, suggesting that nutrient-dense fruits like avocado and mango may support cardiovascular health without major lifestyle changes.
“This research reinforces the power of food-first strategies to help reduce cardiovascular disease risk, particularly in vulnerable populations like those with prediabetes,” said Britt Burton-Freeman, PhD, Principal Investigator and Professor at Illinois Tech. “It’s an encouraging message: small, nutrient-dense additions—like incorporating avocado and mango into meals and snacks—may support heart health without the need for strict rules or major dietary overhauls.”
The Avocado-Mango group also saw increases in fiber, vitamin C, and heart-healthy monounsaturated fat – nutrients tied to cardiovascular wellness – without changes in calorie intake or body weight. Select kidney function markers, such as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), also improved. While no significant differences were found in cholesterol, blood sugar, or inflammation, the findings highlight the value of adding nutrient-rich fruits to the diet, especially for those at risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
Together, mango and avocado offer a unique combination of nutrients that may help support heart health:
Mango has fiber (2g/serving, 7% DV) and is an excellent source of antioxidant vitamin C (50% DV), which may support blood sugar control, weight management, and overall cardiovascular wellness. Avocado is a good source of fiber (3g/serving*, 11% DV), important for managing cholesterol levels, blood sugar and body weight. In addition, avocado contributes heart-healthy fats (6g unsaturated fats), which can lower the risk of heart disease by helping to reduce LDL cholesterol, and potassium (250mg, 6% DV), important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.
The complementary nutrient profiles of these two fruits offer a simple, satisfying way to nourish the body and support cardiovascular wellness.
Looking for ways to enjoy this nutrient-dense combination in everyday meals? Try adding avocado and fresh mango to salads, smoothies, or grain bowls for a flavorful, heart-healthy twist, with easy recipes like Mango Avocado Tuna Ceviche or an Avocado and Mango Topper.
A new scientific review published by researchers in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition at the Illinois Institute of Technology highlights the role of pecans in heart-healthy diets. The data reinforces the nut’s importance within current nutrition and wellness trends.
The research, funded by the American Pecan Promotion Board and published in the journal Nutrients, analyzed 52 studies released between 2000 and 2025, including human clinical trials on cardiometabolic effects and other health outcomes associated with the nuts’ consumption. The data also identified key areas for future research, including the role of fruit in satiety and its impact on weight loss.
According to the analysis, various studies on humans indicate that regular consumption of pecans in snack portions is associated with better key performance indicators of cardiovascular health, particularly in the lipid profile.
Among the observed benefits are reductions in total cholesterol, LDL (“bad”) cholesterol, triglycerides, and non-HDL cholesterol. These effects are related to the nut’s content of unsaturated fats, fiber, and bioactive compounds.
Furthermore, the nut is a rich source of polyphenols—natural antioxidants—that might help reduce lipid oxidation, a process linked to oxidative stress and the development of cardiovascular diseases.
The review also cites emerging evidence of pecans’ positive effect on post-meal lipid metabolism, reinforcing their cardioprotective potential.
Blood sugar, satiety, and body weight
Regarding the effects on glycemic control, the results are mixed. While some studies suggest improved insulin response and blood sugar control when the nut replaces refined carbohydrates, the researchers note that more studies are required to establish definitive conclusions.
However, several studies indicate that pecan consumption can increase satiety, which opens opportunities for its use in appetite management strategies.
Regarding body weight, available evidence indicates that the consumption of the fruit is not associated with weight gain, and observed changes remain within normal variability.
Improvement in diet quality
Another relevant finding of the review is that people who include pecans in their diet tend to score higher on the Healthy Eating Index, which reflects better overall nutrition.
Data from the NHANES study—representative of the US population—show that pecans are easily integrated into balanced eating patterns, especially when substituting less healthy snack options.
“What stands out in the research is the consistent relationship between pecan consumption and improved markers of heart health and diet quality. The findings on satiety and weight control also provide valuable information in a context where interest in appetite regulation and GLP-1 therapies is growing,” said Britt Burton-Freeman, director of the Illinois Institute of Technology.
Beyond the scientific results, the authors emphasized that pecans are a practical and accessible option for incorporating plant-based nutrients into the daily diet.
The world is facing a persistent health crisis. Chronic non-communicable diseases – such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer – are the leading causes of death and disability globally.
“Fruits, Vegetables, and Human Health: Key Nutrients and Their Role in Chronic Diseases” written by The Foundation for Fresh Produce’s Chief Medical Officer, Jelena Gligorijevic, MD, is a critical, evidence-based framework for how to begin tackling these problems. The solution is simple and one almost all of us already know: fruits and vegetables.
“This review strengthens the clinical and public health case for produce by confirming that a high daily intake of fruits and vegetables is a cornerstone strategy for both preventing and managing chronic noncommunicable diseases.” said Lauren M. Scott, President of The Foundation for Fresh Produce. “It moves far beyond ‘eat your veggies because they’re good for you’ and provides a robust scientific rationale for why fruits and vegetables are an essential part of dietary approaches and healthful lives all over the world.”
Heart disease is the leading cause of death. About one in three adult Americans has one or more types of cardiovascular diseases, and one in every three deaths is attributed to cardiovascular disease.
Heart disease is also the leading cause of death in the European Union, prompting the E.U. to launch a new Cardiovascular Disease Action Plan. The plan underscores prevention, nutrition, and early intervention as critical levers for reducing non communicable diseases.
This medical review reinforces the evidence that increased fruit and vegetable consumption plays a vital role in preventing and managing major cardiovascular risk factors both in the U.S., the E.U. and globally.
In addition to examining the effects of fruits and vegetables on heart disease, the review systematically explains how nutrients in fruits and vegetables directly combat the root causes of other major chronic illnesses, such as:
• Vitamins, antioxidants and phytochemicals reduce the inflammation that underlie many chronic diseases.
• High potassium and low sodium help manage hypertension.
• Low energy density and high fiber promote satiety and combat obesity.
• Fiber and phytochemicals exert a protective effect against diabetes, cancer, and digestive disorders.
• Anti-inflammatory compounds, antioxidants, and essential nutrients enhance neurotransmitter function, lower inflammation, and foster a healthy gut, all of which may contribute to better mood regulation and stress resilience.
“The review is more than an academic summary; it is a call to action for the global medical, governmental, and public health communities,” said Gligorijevic. “Increasing fruit and vegetable consumption is not just a lifestyle suggestion. It is an essential, powerful, and accessible strategy to improve quality of life and combat the global rise of chronic disease.”
Why it Matters for Global Health
The Foundation urges health professionals and public servants to familiarize themselves with this review. While the produce industry supplies the fruits and vegetables we need, clinicians, dietitians, policymakers, and government agencies must champion their consumption.
The findings are clear: fruits and vegetables provide the essential vitamins, minerals, bioactive phytochemicals, and fiber we need to prevent and treat major common diseases. By focusing on these benefits, the medical community can empower patients, people of all ages and policymakers to shape food environments and public education that move us beyond treatment to a sustainable model of prevention.
For more research and information on resources that support consumption of fruits and vegetables, visit www.fruitsandveggies.org.
About The Foundation for Fresh Produce
The Foundation for Fresh Produce is growing a healthier world by changing the trajectory of human health. We believe fruits and vegetables are the answer and we must remove barriers that prevent people from eating them.
The Foundation boosts the appeal of fruits and vegetables as an integral part of people’s diets, improves access, nurtures passionate fruit and vegetable professionals, and scales partner programs that strengthen our collective global impact. To join in changing the trajectory of human health, visit www.freshproduce.com/foundation to learn more and donate. For consumer inspiration and professional nutrition education, go to www.fruitsandveggies.org.
The world is facing a persistent health crisis. Chronic non-communicable diseases – such as heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and cancer – are the leading causes of death and disability globally. “Fruits, Vegetables, and Human Health: Key Nutrients and Their Role in Chronic Diseases” written by The Foundation for Fresh Produce’s Chief Medical Officer, Jelena Gligorijevic, MD, is a critical, evidence-based framework for how to begin tackling these problems. The solution is simple and one almost all of us already know: fruits and vegetables.
“This review strengthens the clinical and public health case for produce by confirming that a high daily intake of fruits and vegetables is a cornerstone strategy for both preventing and managing chronic noncommunicable diseases.” said Lauren M. Scott, President of The Foundation for Fresh Produce. “It moves far beyond ‘eat your veggies because they’re good for you’ and provides a robust scientific rationale for why fruits and vegetables are an essential part of dietary approaches and healthful lives all over the world.”
In the U.S., February is American Heart Month, making the release of this new review especially timely as heart disease is the leading cause of death. About one in three adult Americans has one or more types of cardiovascular diseases, and one in every three deaths is attributed to cardiovascular disease.
Heart disease is also the leading cause of death in the European Union, prompting the E.U. to launch a new Cardiovascular Disease Action Plan. The plan underscores prevention, nutrition, and early intervention as critical levers for reducing non‑communicable diseases.
This medical review reinforces the evidence that increased fruit and vegetable consumption plays a vital role in preventing and managing major cardiovascular risk factors both in the U.S., the E.U. and globally.
In addition to examining the effects of fruits and vegetables on heart disease, the review systematically explains how nutrients in fruits and vegetables directly combat the root causes of other major chronic illnesses, such as:
- Vitamins, antioxidants and phytochemicals reduce the inflammation that underlie many chronic diseases.
- High potassium and low sodium help manage hypertension.
- Low energy density and high fiber promote satiety and combat obesity.
- Fiber and phytochemicals exert a protective effect against diabetes, cancer, and digestive disorders.
- Anti-inflammatory compounds, antioxidants, and essential nutrients enhance neurotransmitter function, lower inflammation, and foster a healthy gut, all of which may contribute to better mood regulation and stress resilience.
“The review is more than an academic summary; it is a call to action for the global medical, governmental, and public health communities,” said Dr Jelena Gligorijevic, MD, Chief Medical Officer, The Foundation for Fresh Produce. “Increasing fruit and vegetable consumption is not just a lifestyle suggestion. It is an essential, powerful, and accessible strategy to improve quality of life and combat the global rise of chronic disease.”
Why it Matters for Global Health
The Foundation urges health professionals and public servants to familiarize themselves with this review. While the produce industry supplies the fruits and vegetables we need, clinicians, dietitians, policymakers, and government agencies must champion their consumption.
The findings are clear: fruits and vegetables provide the essential vitamins, minerals, bioactive phytochemicals, and fiber we need to prevent and treat major common diseases. By focusing on these benefits, the medical community can empower patients, people of all ages and policymakers to shape food environments and public education that move us beyond treatment to a sustainable model of prevention.
For more research and information on resources that support consumption of fruits and vegetables, visit www.fruitsandveggies.org.
About The Foundation for Fresh Produce
The Foundation for Fresh Produce is growing a healthier world by changing the trajectory of human health. We believe fruits and vegetables are the answer and we must remove barriers that prevent people from eating them.
The Foundation boosts the appeal of fruits and vegetables as an integral part of people’s diets, improves access, nurtures passionate fruit and vegetable professionals, and scales partner programs that strengthen our collective global impact. To join in changing the trajectory of human health, visit www.freshproduce.com/foundation to learn more and donate. For consumer inspiration and professional nutrition education, go to www.fruitsandveggies.org.
Orange juice, a daily drink in Brazilian households, not only plays a key role in the country’s citrus economy but also offers significant health benefits.
Beyond its well-known nutritional contribution, research suggests that OJ might positively affect the gut microbiota, playing a key role in preventing metabolic diseases.
The study, conducted by researchers at the Food Research Center (FORC) at the University of São Paulo (USP), analyzed the impact of orange juice on the composition of intestinal bacteria. The investigation was supported by the local citrus industry organization, Fundecitrus.
The research focused on the effect of orange juice from the Pera and Moro varieties in individuals with obesity and insulin resistance. The results showed positive changes in participants’ intestinal microbiota, indicating a beneficial effect on gut bacterial composition.
According to FORC researcher Aline Alves de Santana, obesity is associated with various factors, including an imbalance in the gut microbiota. This variance can promote systemic inflammation and metabolic dysfunction.
“Diet plays a fundamental role in microbiota modulation, and diets rich in fresh foods, such as fruits and vegetables, are beneficial for intestinal health,” she explained.
Furthermore, the research team observed favorable changes in the digestion and metabolism of bioactive compounds present in oranges. These ingredients are linked to reduced inflammatory processes in the body, which could improve metabolic status and overall health.
The findings reinforce the relevance of orange juice not only as a popular beverage and driver of the citrus sector but also as a functional food with the potential to positively impact intestinal and metabolic health.