Nanotechnology: A novel tool to enhance the bioavailability of micronutrients

Food Sci Nutr. 2021 May 4;9(6):3354-3361. doi: 10.1002/fsn3.2311. eCollection 2021 Jun.

Abstract

Nanotechnology has revolutionized the field of food systems, diagnostics, therapeutics, pharmaceuticals, the agriculture sector, and nutraceuticals. Nanoparticles are playing important role in giving the solution to enhance bioavailability of oral delivery of bioactive compounds. This review revealed that nanoparticles can improve the bioavailability of micronutrients, for example, vitamin B12, vitamin A, folic acid, and iron. However, toxicity associated with nanoparticle-based delivery systems is still a major concern after ingestion of nano-based supplements. The mode of the mechanism of nanomaterial along with bioactive components in different physiological conditions of the human body is also a major gap in the field of nanoceuticals. In the future, more evidence-based clinical investigations are needed to confirm the exact approach to physiological changes in the human body.

Keywords: bioavailability; micronutrient; nanotechnology; novel tool.

Publication types

  • Review