Evaluation of bioaccessibility of some essential elements from wheatgrass (Triticum aestivum L.) by in vitro digestion method

Bioaccessibility of some essential elements namely K, Mn, Zn, Fe and Na from wheatgrass, consumed as dietary supplement, was measured by in vitro gastric and gastro-intestinal digestion methods. Neutron activation analysis was used to determine bioaccessible concentration of these elements. Bioaccessibility of these elements in commercial wheatgrass tablets and wheat grains was also determined. From both the methods, it was found that bioaccessibility of the elements studied was the highest from fresh wheatgrass and the lowest for wheat seeds. The range of values determined by gastric digestion for wheatgrass, wheatgrass tablets and wheat seeds were 37–57%, 17–43% and 9–38% respectively. Corresponding bioaccessibility values determined by gastro-intestinal digestion method were 39–60%, 34–55% and 15–23% respectively. These studies suggested that fresh wheatgrass grown in the laboratory is an effective source of minerals.