Phytates are also known as phytic acid, which is the stored form of phosphorus. These are anti-nutrients found in cereals, grains, millets, seeds, nuts, and unprocessed whole grains in their outer layer or bran. Phytates are primarily limited to the outer bran layer of whole grains, but in legumes, they are spread all over, inside-out. Phytate is the primary phosphorus storage form in legumes, cereals, nuts, and seeds. In fact, phytic acid is also found in fruits, roots, tubers, and berries, though in lower concentrations ( research paper ). In cereals, the endosperm is rich in protein and starch and devoid of phytate, which is concentrated in the germ. Research claims that monogastric animals like humans lack sufficient amounts of phytate-degrading enzymes. Therefore, phytate is termed anti-nutritional, as it makes the bioavailability of essential dietary minerals tough. Sadly, this often results in mineral deficiencies in vulnerable populations. Eating anti-nutrient-rich meals wil
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