[The role of phytates in human nutrition].

Claims that consumption of phytate-rich grains, by definition, worsens mineral status needs to be clarified as new evidence emerges about the role of phytic acids (FA) from whole grains in improving population health outcomes. In this regard, it seems appropriate to draw the attention of practitioners to the need to correct patient's diet in order to prevent non-communicable diseases. The aim of this review was to generalize and analyze the modern data on the role of phytates in human nutrition. Material and methods. A search for domestic and foreign literature in the bibliographic databases of articles on medical sciences was carried out using the PubMed, MEDLINE and eLibrary search engines. Results. Deficit of minerals and trace elements in the diet, especially deficiency of iron, calcium, selenium, zinc, iodine, is an urgent public health problem in many countries. Calcium, magnesium, zinc, selenium, and iron deficiencies are associated with impaired immune function and an increased risk of both acute and chronic diseases. Vegan and vegetarian behavior styles with the restriction and exclusion of animal sources of bioavailable minerals and trace elements are gaining more and more popularity in our country. FA is the main storage form of phosphorus in nuts, grains, legumes, and seeds, which satisfies the biosynthesis needs of growing tissues during germination. FA is known as a dietary inhibitor that chelates minerals and trace elements, limiting their bioavailability and reducing their absorption. Pre-treatment methods to reduce phytate levels and increase the nutritional value of diets are fermentation, soaking, and sprouting. Reducing phytate content in plant foods by processing leads to a measurable improvement in mineral status, however, the chelating and antioxidant properties of phytates may be beneficial and their potential in the prevention of cancer, cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus and kidney stone formation is currently being studied. Conclusion. Essential components of a healthy diet are whole whole grains, legumes, vegetables, seeds and nuts, despite the fact that most of them are relatively high in FA. Despite some antinutrient properties, FAs have preventive effects on public health.

[Role of tomatoes and products thereof in human healthy diet].

Tomatoes are an essential part of the diet. Epidemiological studies have established a link between the consumption of tomatoes, which contain carotenoids, and a reduction in the risk of diseases such as cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Ripe tomato fruits are dark red in color due to the carotenoid lycopene, which is synthesized during fruit ripening. The aim of this review was to summarize and analyze modern data on the role of tomatoes and their processed products in healthy human nutrition. Results. The beneficial effects of this vegetable on bone health, cognitive function, and the cardiovascular system have been studied. However, large intervention studies are needed to confirm a real causal relationship between tomato consumption and the risk of these diseases. Given the presence of various useful bioactive components in tomatoes, the results of most studies provide a reason to include more tomatoes and their processed products in the diet. However, both excessive and regular consumption of this vegetable can cause some side effects in the human body. Conclusion. Recent studies highlight the relationship between tomato consumption and a reduced risk of various diseases such as obesity, hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Tomatoes, thanks to the bioactive substances they contain, with an adequate level of consumption, can become effective component of a healthy diet.

[S-methylmethionin (vitamin U): experimental studies and clinical perspective].

Vitamin-like compound S-methyl-L-methionine (SMM, historically called vitamin U) is a metabolic agent, affects metabolic processes, which causes a wide variety of effects. The data of the studies demonstrating gastroprotective effect, hypolipidemic and antioxidant effect, participation in regulation of adipocyte function, homocysteine exchange are presented. SMM is involved in all methylation reactions in which another activated form of methionine, S-adenosylmethionine, normally participates. The results of the observed studies indicate a possible expansion of the clinical use of S-methylmethionine.