Enzymes play a fundamental role in catalyzing biochemical reactions within living organisms. The mechanism of enzyme action involves a series of steps that facilitate the conversion of substrate molecules into products. This process can be elucidated through the lock-and-key model and the induced-fit model, providing insights into substrate binding, catalysis, and product release. 1. Substrate […]
Enzyme activity is highly regulated and influenced by various factors. Understanding these factors is essential for comprehending the dynamics of biochemical reactions. The key factors affecting enzyme activity include: 1. Temperature: a. Effect: Enzymes exhibit optimal activity within a specific temperature range. Higher temperatures generally increase reaction rates due to increased molecular motion, while […]
Definition of Enzymes Enzymes are biological catalysts that accelerate chemical reactions within living organisms by lowering the activation energy required for the reactions to occur. They are essential for the proper functioning of cells, as they facilitate metabolic processes, signal transduction, and various other biochemical reactions. Properties of Enzymes a. Catalytic Activity: Enzymes exhibit […]
Drug-food interactions refer to the effects that food and beverages can have on the absorption, distribution, metabolism, or excretion of medications. Understanding these interactions is crucial for ensuring the safety and effectiveness of drug therapy. Factors such as nutrient content, timing of food consumption, and individual variations can influence the impact of food on drug […]
Food supplements, also known as dietary supplements, are products intended to supplement the diet by providing essential nutrients that may be lacking or insufficient in regular food consumption. These supplements come in various forms, including vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbal extracts, and other bioactive compounds. Understanding the indications, benefits, and considerations associated with food supplements […]
Nutraceuticals represent a hybrid category of products that bridge the gap between nutrition and pharmaceuticals. Coined from “nutrition” and “pharmaceuticals,” nutraceuticals encompass foods, dietary supplements, and functional foods with purported health benefits. The concept emphasizes the preventive and therapeutic roles of certain food components beyond basic nutritional functions. Types of Nutraceuticals 1. Functional Foods: […]
Dietary supplements are products designed to supplement the diet, providing nutrients that may be deficient or not consumed in sufficient quantities through regular food intake. These supplements include vitamins, minerals, herbs, amino acids, enzymes, and various other substances. While they can contribute to overall health, it is essential to understand the types, benefits, potential risks, […]
Genetically Modified (GM) foods, also known as genetically engineered or biotech foods, refer to crops whose genetic material has been altered using genetic engineering techniques. The aim is to introduce specific traits that enhance crop performance, nutritional content, or resistance to pests and diseases. The development and consumption of GM foods have sparked considerable debate, […]
Pesticides play a crucial role in modern agriculture by controlling pests, diseases, and weeds that threaten crop yields. While pesticides contribute significantly to global food production, their use raises concerns due to potential environmental and health impacts. A comprehensive examination of the benefits, risks, and sustainable practices associated with pesticide use is essential for informed […]
Artificial ripening is a common practice employed in the food industry to accelerate the ripening process of fruits, making them ready for market faster than natural ripening. However, this practice raises concerns due to the potential health risks associated with the chemicals used and the impact on the nutritional content and sensory attributes of the […]
