Antinutrient
Antinutrient
Antinutrient (pronunciation: /ˌæntiˈnjuːtrɪənt/) is a natural or synthetic compound that interferes with the absorption of nutrients. Antinutrients can be found in many foods, including legumes, whole grains, and some fruits and vegetables.
Etymology
The term "antinutrient" is derived from the prefix "anti-" meaning against, and "nutrient" meaning a substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life.
Function
Antinutrients can have both negative and positive health effects. While they can reduce the body's ability to absorb essential nutrients from food, they also have been found to have health benefits such as anti-inflammatory and anticancer properties.
Types of Antinutrients
Some common types of antinutrients include:
- Phytic acid: Found in many plant seeds, it can bind with minerals and prevent them from being absorbed by the body.
- Tannins: These are a type of polyphenol found in a variety of foods, including tea and some fruits. They can inhibit the absorption of iron and other minerals.
- Lectins: Found in many foods, especially in legumes and whole grains, they can interfere with the absorption of nutrients in the gut by binding to the lining of the gut wall.
Related Terms
- Nutrient: A substance that provides nourishment essential for growth and the maintenance of life.
- Phytic acid: A unique natural substance found in plant seeds that has been found to have both health benefits and drawbacks.
- Tannins: A type of polyphenol found in a variety of foods, known for its antioxidant properties.
- Lectins: A type of protein found in a wide variety of foods, but most commonly in legumes and whole grains.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Antinutrient
- Wikipedia's article - Antinutrient
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