Page 83 - FoodFocusThailand No.231 June 2025

STRATEGIC R&D

from oxidative damage, regulate blood pressure , system development and the regulation of immunomodulators.
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and alleviate cellular inflammation. This process Gut dysbiosis, or microbial imbalance, can damage intestinal
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involves the suppression of nitric oxide production epithelium and increase the risk of certain diseases .
through the inhibition of inducible nitric oxide Thus, consuming probiotic-rich foods — such as yogurt, kefir,
synthase (iNOS) and neuronal nitric oxide synthase fermented milk, tea, or probiotic supplements — can restore
(nNOS) . microbiome balance by promoting beneficial bacteria. This
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contributes to improved fat, sugar, and bile acid metabolism,
Thai Herbs: Blood-Pressure-Regulating enhanced immune development, and stronger immune
Treasures from Local Plants with ACE- responses. Healthy microbes also compete with harmful
Inhibiting Properties pathogens for space and nutrients in the gut, helping to protect
Hypertension is a major indicator of cardiovascular the body from infection .
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disease and is closely linked to the activity of In an era where non-communicable diseases (NCDs) have
Angiotensin I-converting enzyme (ACE). become a major public health concern, mindful, informed, and
This enzyme facilitates the conversion of balanced eating is no longer just about flavor or trends. Nutrition
angiotensin I to angiotensin II, which causes has become a strategic health approach with lasting effects on
vasoconstriction of peripheral arteries. This in turn quality of life. Numerous studies confirm that natural compounds,
increases vascular resistance and elevates blood such as antioxidants in green tea, ACE inhibitors in herbs,
pressure . Therefore, consuming foods with ACE- peptides in proteins, and probiotics, play a critical role in reducing
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inhibiting properties can suppress the production of NCD risks. By adopting these dietary practices, we can
angiotensin II, prevent vasoconstriction, and help meaningfully invest in our long-term health through the principle
lower blood pressure . Moreover, researchers have of “food as medicine.”
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identified several Thai herbs – such as Thao Muak
Khao (Urceola minutiflora), Maprang root (Bouea
macrophylla Griffith), Bunnag flower (Mesua ferrea),
Jookarohini (Dischidia major (Vahl) Merr.), ginger,
and Pikul flower (Mimusops elengi) – as well More Information Service Info C011
as plant-derived bioactive compounds like
isoquercetin, quercetin glycosides, apigenin,
cyanidin, kaempferol, and luteolin , as effective
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ACE inhibitors.
Protein Power: Biopeptides for Immune
and Cardiovascular Health
Beyond muscle repair and maintenance, proteins
— particularly bioactive peptides, or short chains of
amino acids — play a key role in the Renin-
Angiotensin-Aldosterone System (RAAS), which
regulates blood pressure and reduces oxidative
stress . Consequently, these peptides can help lower
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inflammation, hypertension, free radicals, and the
risk of diabetes, hyperlipidemia, and cancer, while
simultaneously boosting immune function .
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Biopeptides can modulate inflammatory responses
by regulating transcription factors such as NF-κB,
thereby reducing the production of pro-inflammatory
cytokines like TNF-α and IL-6. Additionally, some
peptides bind to receptors on immune cell surfaces,
blocking inflammatory signaling pathways, promoting
anti-inflammatory cytokines like IL-10, enhancing
immune efficiency, and reducing systemic
inflammation .
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Probiotics: Beneficial Microorganisms for
Digestive and Immune Resilience
All consumed food must pass through the
gastrointestinal system, which houses the body’s
largest and most immune-active organs. This system
plays a vital role in maintaining immune homeostasis;
the gut microbiome directly influences immune

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