Phytic acid: unpredictable properties and dietary sources of occurrence
Wojciech Wiśniewski
2026-03-24
2 min. read
Phytic acid: unpredictable properties and dietary sources of occurrence
33
views
While whole-grain products are widely recognized as valuable sources of nutrients, they also contain a compound with a controversial reputation—phytic acid, classified as an antinutrient with complex effects on the bioavailability of trace minerals.
Fatty acids
Phytanoic acid has six phosphate groups in its chemical structure. It is present not only in cereal grains, but also in the seeds of legumes. Full-grain flours or thick casks contain it more than purified products. Humans, unlike ruminants, are unable to digest it. Unfortunately, the high content of phytanoid acid is not beneficial to human health.
The action of phytic acid
Phytinic acid has the ability to form insoluble compounds (phytanic compounds) with elements such as magnesium, zinc, iron, calcium, manganese. Unfortunately, these compounds are unable to release and absorb these nutrients. Consequently, they become unusable in our diet. Additionally, phytonic acid can affect the action of digestive enzymes by blocking their function. Unfortunately, the fact that phytanic acid contains a lot of fatty acids makes it more efficient to produce fructose than fertilizer.