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Nutrients and phytochemicals: from bioavailability to bioefficacy beyond antioxidants
Birgit Holst1, Gary Williamson
1BioAnalytical Science Department, Nestlé Research Center, Nestec Ltd., Vers-chez-les-Blanc, CH-1000 Lausanne 26, Switzerland. birgit.holst@waters.nestle.com
Current Opinion in Biotechnology
|April 15, 2008
Summary
Bioavailable doses of dietary compounds, not ingested amounts, determine effects, influenced by individual factors like genetics and age. Phytonutrients act as
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Gerontology
- Biochemistry
Background:
- Dietary compound efficacy depends on bioavailable dose, varying with individual factors like genetics and medication.
- Phytonutrients, including flavonoids, phenolic acids, and glucosinolates, are crucial for maintaining adult and later-life health, termed 'lifespan essentials'.
- Chronic, age-related diseases involve oxidant/antioxidant imbalance, with emerging research on indirect bioactive effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the significance of bioavailable dosage over ingested amounts for dietary compounds.
- To emphasize the role of phytonutrients as 'lifespan essentials' for maintaining health in later life.
- To discuss the evolving understanding of dietary bioactives' mechanisms in age-related diseases.
Main Methods:
- Literature review on bioavailability and individual variability in response to dietary compounds.
- Analysis of the role of aging and predisposition on nutrient and phytonutrient requirements.
- Synthesis of current research on mechanisms of chronic disease, including oxidant/antioxidant balance and indirect bioactive effects.
Main Results:
- Bioavailability is a critical determinant of dietary compound effects, modulated by individual genetic and medication profiles.
- Phytonutrients are essential for maintaining physiological functions and healthspan, particularly in aging populations.
- Indirect mechanisms and adaptive responses to dietary bioactives are increasingly recognized alongside direct antioxidant actions.
Conclusions:
- Personalized nutrition strategies should consider bioavailable doses and individual predispositions for optimal health outcomes.
- Phytonutrients play a vital role in promoting healthy aging and mitigating age-related diseases.
- Future research should further elucidate the complex in vivo interactions of dietary bioactives and their impact on healthspan.
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