Swara Bhayde BFT-20003

Development of a nutraceutical product/functional food-case study

Nourish and Numb Nibbles to help people suffering from anorexia

1. Introduction
1.1. Eating disorder
Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder characterised by a
persistent restriction of food intake, leading to significant weight loss and other
health complications. Individuals with anorexia nervosa often have an intense
fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of their body weight or shape,
which can make it challenging to address the issue of weight gain through food.

However, gaining weight is an essential component of treating anorexia

nervosa and restoring physical health. To achieve weight gain, individuals with
anorexia nervosa must consume more calories than they expend through
physical activity. This typically involves increasing their caloric intake
gradually over time and incorporating a variety of nutrient-dense foods into
their diet, such as lean proteins, healthy fats, complex carbohydrates, and
fiber-rich fruits and vegetables.
 Swara Bhayde BFT-20003

It's important to note that gaining weight is a gradual process and may
take some time to achieve. It's also essential to approach weight gain in a
healthy and sustainable way to avoid any negative health consequences that can
arise from rapid weight gain or unhealthy eating habits. With the right support
and guidance, individuals with anorexia nervosa can overcome their fear of
gaining weight and establish a healthy relationship with food to support their
physical and mental well-being.

1.2. Functional food

Nourish and Numb Nibbles are a functional food product that aims to
support individuals struggling with anorexia nervosa, a serious eating disorder
characterised by a persistent restriction of food intake, leading to weight loss
and other health complications. These nibbles are designed to help individuals
with anorexia gain weight and provide essential nutrients to nourish their body
while also addressing some of the psychological barriers that often accompany
the disorder.

Overall, Nourish and Numb Nibbles are designed to be a functional food

product that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of anorexia
nervosa. By providing nourishing ingredients that promote weight gain and
supporting mental health through the use of numbing spices, these nibbles can
be a valuable addition to a comprehensive treatment plan for individuals with
anorexia.

2. Nutrition and Effect on anorexia

The product is high in healthy fats and proteins, as well as fibre-rich fruits
and vegetables. Healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats
can help promote weight gain and improve overall health by reducing
inflammation, improving heart health, and aiding in the absorption of essential
vitamins and minerals. Protein is also essential for building and repairing tissues
in the body, maintaining muscle mass, and supporting a healthy immune system.
Additionally, fibre-rich fruits and vegetables can help regulate digestion and
promote feelings of fullness, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals
with anorexia who struggle with appetite control.
 Swara Bhayde BFT-20003

In addition to the nourishing ingredients, Nourish and Numb Nibbles also

contain small amounts of numbing spices like ginger and cayenne pepper.
Cayenne pepper is used as functional foods and dietary supplements because it
contains capsaicin, a compound that has been shown to have numbing and
pain-relieving properties. Capsaicin works by binding to pain receptors in the
body and decreasing the amount of substance P, a neurotransmitter that
transmits pain signals to the brain. These spices can help to reduce anxiety and
discomfort around eating, which is often a significant barrier for individuals
with anorexia. Numbing spices work by stimulating the nerves that control taste,
which can help to desensitise the palate and make eating more comfortable.

A functional food product designed to support individuals with anorexia

nervosa. These nibbles are high in healthy fats and proteins, as well as fiber-rich
fruits and vegetables, to help promote weight gain and nourish the body. They
also contain small amounts of numbing spices like ginger and cayenne pepper,
which can help to reduce anxiety around eating.

3. Method
Here is a recipe for homemade Nourish and Numb Nibbles:
Ingredients:
● Rolled oats
● Almond butter
● Honey
● Chopped dried fruits (such as raisins, apricots, or cranberries)
● Chopped nuts (such as almonds or walnuts)
● Seeds (such as sunflower or pumpkin seeds)
● Ground ginger
● Cayenne pepper
● Salt

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).

● Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
● In a mixing bowl, combine the rolled oats, almond butter, honey,
dried fruits, nuts, seeds, ginger, cayenne pepper, and salt. Mix well
until all ingredients are fully combined.
● Take small scoops of the mixture and form them into small,
bite-sized balls.
 Swara Bhayde BFT-20003

● Place the balls onto the prepared baking sheet, making sure to leave
some space in between each one.
● Bake the nibbles for 10-12 minutes, or until they are lightly
browned and firm to the touch.
● Remove the nibbles from the oven and let them cool on the baking
sheet for 5-10 minutes.
● Transfer the nibbles to a container or airtight bag and store them in
the refrigerator for up to 1 week.

You can customise the recipe by adding other ingredients, such as shredded
coconut or chocolate chips, to suit your taste. Remember that these nibbles are
designed to be high in healthy fats, proteins, and fibre-rich fruits and vegetables,
so be sure to choose ingredients that align with these nutritional goals.

4. Conclusion
In summary, functional food products are designed to support individuals
with anorexia nervosa by providing a nutrient-dense, high-protein, and
fibre-rich snack option that can help promote weight gain and nourish the body.
Nourish and Numb Nibbles can be a helpful snack option for individuals with
anorexia nervosa, but they should be used in conjunction with a comprehensive
treatment plan that addresses both the physical and psychological aspects of the
disorder.