nutriie

Nutriie is a term used in theoretical nutrition to describe a proposed class of small, bioactive molecules that researchers speculate support cellular maintenance and energy metabolism. It is not an officially defined chemical family or a single essential nutrient; rather, a conceptual category intended to capture compounds that may influence mitochondrial function, redox balance, and genomic stability when present at adequate levels.

In some theoretical frameworks, nutriie encompasses diverse molecules—ranging from certain vitaminoid derivatives to polyphenol metabolites—thought to exert coordinated effects on metabolic pathways. Proponents suggest that nutriie acts in concert with established nutrients, potentially enhancing ATP production, fatty acid oxidation, and antioxidant defenses, while being distinguished from classic vitamins by broader tissue-specific effects. Critics note the lack of consensus on essentiality or minimal intake in humans.

Current evidence for nutriie is indirect. Most data come from in vitro experiments or animal studies, with limited or inconsistent human data. Consequently, nutriie remains a speculative concept rather than an established nutritional category and is not used in clinical guidelines.

See also: Nutrient; Essential nutrient; Micronutrient; Phytonutrient.