Molecular nutrition in Mexico

The case of dietary portfolios

Abstract

Advances in science and technology have contributed to the foods bioactive compounds promote benefits at molecular, cellular and tissue level and reflected in the body welfare. In Mexico, one of the main contributions of molecular nutrition through nutrigenomics approach has been the development of specific dietary portfolios for diseases. Dietary portfolios are based on the use of functional foods or foods high in certain components to normalize biochemical parameters (glucose, cholesterol) associated with the development of chronic degenerative diseases. The portfolios are developed based on scientific evidence that proves the effect of each of the nutrients on health and has worked in relation to four specific foods that are nopal, chia seed, oats and soybeans. The knowledge generated in research of dietary portfolios allow the establishment of individualized diets and the production and intake of functional foods.