IJFANS International Journal of Food and Nutritional Sciences

ISSN PRINT 2319 1775 Online 2320-7876

Impact of Nutrition Education on Awareness of Antinutrients and Nutrient Absorption: An Interventional Study

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Ms. Jyoti Ramdas Shinde, Dr. Anushree Khaire
» doi: 10.48047/ijfans/v14/i5/34

Abstract

Nutritional deficiencies remain a critical global concern, particularly in populations dependent on plant-based diets where antinutrients such as phytates, oxalates, tannins, and lectins reduce mineral bioavailability. This interventional study aimed to assess awareness of antinutrients and their impact on nutrient absorption, as well as to evaluate the effectiveness of a targeted educational program. Sixty participants were randomly assigned to intervention and control groups (n=30 each). The intervention group received structured education on antinutrients and reduction methods, including soaking, germination, and fermentation. Post-intervention analysis revealed significant improvements in awareness (+56.7%, p<0.001) and adoption of antinutrient-reduction practices (+46.6%, p<0.01) compared to the control group. Hypothetical nutrient absorption showed marked gains, with iron (+81.4%), zinc (+47.3%), calcium (+38.4%), and magnesium (+29.0%) demonstrating substantial improvement. These findings underscore the importance of nutrition education in enhancing mineral bioavailability and addressing hidden hunger through culturally feasible dietary interventions.

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