Metabolic disorders are often recessively inherited but dominant traits are also prevalent. These disorders are often due to mutations or changes in the normal metabolic cycles, hence causing severe deficiency or accumulation of harmful metabolites, giving rise to signs and symptoms. These long-term diseases generally do not have definitive treatment except for enzyme replacement and avoidance of particular compounds in one’s diet. However, bioactive compounds like luteolin, a flavonoid mainly present in L. japonica Thunb. (Caprifoliaceae) and Dendranthema morifolium have potential antihyperuricemic effect by inhibiting excessive production of uric acid. Glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) from the marine worm Urechis unicinctus can reverse the damage on β cells of islets of Langerhans and restore their function, thus improving glucose tolerance. This chapter will look into more of these biologically active phytochemicals and micronutrients from various sources like plants, animals, gut probiotics, and even marine species for their role in the management of metabolic disorders.
