Question

What are the Non-nutritive components of diet? Explain.

Explain the non-nutritive components of diet.

Answer 1

Non-nutritive components are chemical compounds with no specific nutritional function. They may interfere with absorption or be beneficial.

• Anti-nutritional factors: Phytates bind iron and zinc; tannins interfere with iron and protein absorption; trypsin inhibitors reduce protein digestibility; oxalates interfere with calcium absorption; goitrogens interfere with iodine uptake.
• Beneficial non-nutritive factors: Phytochemicals act as antioxidants and reduce cancer risk; anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties; flavonoids/isoflavones lower risk of osteoporosis, heart disease and breast cancer; artificial sweeteners add no calories; preservatives increase shelf life; spices add flavour and have medicinal uses; coffee has a stimulating effect due to caffeine.

Answer 2

Non-nutritive components are chemical compounds with no specific nutritional function. They may interfere with absorption or be beneficial.

• Anti-nutritional factors: Phytates bind iron and zinc; tannins interfere with iron and protein absorption; trypsin inhibitors reduce protein digestibility; oxalates interfere with calcium absorption; goitrogens interfere with iodine uptake.
• Beneficial non-nutritive factors: Phytochemicals act as antioxidants and reduce cancer risk; anthocyanins have anti-inflammatory and anti-tumour properties; flavonoids/isoflavones lower risk of osteoporosis, heart disease and breast cancer; artificial sweeteners add no calories; preservatives increase shelf life; spices add flavour and have medicinal uses; coffee has a stimulating effect due to caffeine.