Antinutrient

Topic

Antinutrients, or anti-nutritional factors, are natural or synthetic compounds that interfere with the absorption of essential nutrients. Commonly found in plant-based foods and beverages, they can bind to vitamins and minerals to prevent their uptake or inhibit digestive enzymes. Common examples include phytates, tannins, lectins, and oxalates, which can often be reduced through traditional food preparation methods like soaking, sprouting, or cooking.