Exploring legume protein derivatives for enhanced essential element bioaccessibility

Abstract

Essential element dyshomeostasis is a tenacious nutritional risk factor underlying the pathophysiology of numerous diseases in humans. A fundamental cause is the inadequacy of elemental bioaccessibility from dietary sources, especially plant-based foods. Out of the essential dietary elements, iron (Fe) and zinc (Zn) are among the broader class of micronutrients whose deficiencies affect approximately one-third of people worldwide. Oral supplementation is the first line of therapy being both accessible and affordable. However, conventional elemental salt supplements often create an imbalance between low bioaccessibility and toxic overload within the body, leading to adverse side effects and u..