Identification and action of phenolic compounds of Jatobá-do-cerrado (Hymenaea stignocarpa Mart.) on α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities and flour effect on glycemic response and nutritional quality of breads.

This study investigated the phenolic profile of jatobá-do-cerrado (Hymenaea stignocarpa Mart.) extracts submitted to in vitro digestion, the inhibition of α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities; and the effect of jatobá-do-cerrado flour addition on the nutritional quality, glycemic index (GI) and acceptability of breads. The phenolic composition was determined by UPLC-MS. Bread formulations were developed adding the jatobá-do-cerrado flour at 10, 20 and 30% (w/w) to replace wheat flour. Phenolic compounds of biological relevance such as caffeic acid, kaempferol, quercetin-3-rutinoside and quercetin-3-rhamnoside were present in jatobá-do-cerrado. The phenolic extracts after in vitro digestion significantly inhibited the α-amylase and α-glucosidase activities. Breads with 20% jatobá-do-cerrado flour addition promoted significant reduction (22%) in GI from 70 (control) to 54.3, while 30% addition presented GI of 57.4 and 10% addition a GI of 62.5. The replacement of refined wheat flour by jatobá-do-cerrado flour reduced glycemic response of breads in a non-dose dependent manner. The dietary fibers and the phenolic compounds of jatobá-do-cerrado exerted a synergetic modulation of glucose metabolism by inhibiting sugar metabolic enzymes and glucose absorption. Thus, jatobá-do-cerrado can be included in the diet of healthy individuals and chronic diseases patients, such as diabetics, as an alternative to improve glycemic control.

Cholesterol-Lowering and Liver-Protective Effects of Cooked and Germinated Mung Beans (Vigna radiata L.).

We investigated the hypocholesterolemic and liver-protective effects of cooked and germinated whole mung beans. Hamsters were fed for 28 days on diets rich in saturated fatty acids and cholesterol, differing only in protein source (20%): casein, cooked whole mung bean, and germinated mung bean. After 28 days, we found reduced plasma concentrations of total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol, increased faecal cholesterol excretion, and reduced levels of asparagine aminotransferase and alanine aminotransferase enzymes in the liver. Reduction in hepatic lipid deposition was observed between each of the mung bean groups relative to the casein group. In addition, the animals of the geminated mung bean group showed a lack of inflammatory infiltrate and better vascularisation of the hepatic tissue. Results from this study show significant hypocholesterolemic and liver-protective properties of the mung bean, which are further enhanced after germination.

Peptides from Chia Present Antibacterial Activity and Inhibit Cholesterol Synthesis.

In previous studies, it has not been reported that protein isolated from chia interferes favorably with antibacterial activity, and reduces cholesterol synthesis. The objective of this study was to determine whether commonly used commercial microbial proteases can be utilized to generate chia protein-based antibacterial and hypocholesterolemic hydrolysates/peptides, considering the effects of protein extraction method. Alcalase, Flavourzyme and sequential Alcalase-Flavourzyme were used to produce hydrolysates from chia protein (CF), protein-rich fraction (PRF) and chia protein concentrates (CPC1 and CPC2). These hydrolysates were evaluated for their antimicrobial activity against Gram-positive (G+) and Gram-negative (G-) microorganisms. The protein hydrolysates were purified by ultrafiltration through a membrane with 3 kDa nominal molecular weight, for evaluation of hypocholesterolemic activity. An inhibition zone was observed when the hydrolysate was tested against S. aureus, and minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) and minimal bactericidal concentration (MBC) values were obtained. Peptides from chia protein with molecular mass lower than 3 kDa reduced up to 80.7% of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMG-CoA reductase) enzymatic reaction velocity. It was also observed that, independent of the method used to obtain chia proteins, the fractions showed relevant bioactivity. Moreover, the intensity of the bioactivity varied with the method for obtaining the protein and with the enzyme used in the hydrolysis process. This is the first report to demonstrate that chia peptides are able to inhibit cholesterol homeostasis.

Transport of cowpea bean derived peptides and their modulator effects on mRNA expression of cholesterol-related genes in Caco-2 and HepG2 cells.

This work studied the cell transport of peptidase-generated peptides from cowpea bean proteins and their effects on mRNA expression of cholesterol-related genes in intestinal and liver cells. The ≤3 kDa hydrolysate was obtained and incubated with Caco-2 intestinal cells using Transwell® plates. HepG2 liver cells were incubated with synthetic analogues of peptides (MELNAVSVVHS and MELNAVSVVSH) identified by "de novo" peptide sequencing in the Caco-2 monolayer permeates. The mRNA expression of NPC1L1, ABCA1 and ABCG1 was measured in Caco-2 cells, in the presence or absence of ≤3 kDa hydrolysate and the expression of HMGCR, SREBP2, LXRα, AMPK1, was determined in the HepG2 cells in the presence or absence of synthetic peptides. Exposure of Caco-2 cells to cowpea ≤3 kDa hydrolysate (2.5 and 5 mg/mL) increased ABCG1 expression at 6 h and 12 h. SREBP2, HMGCR and LDLR mRNA levels were reduced in HepG2 cells after 24 h of treatment with MELNAVSVVHS peptide (50 µM and 100 µM). These results suggest that MELNAVSVVHS peptide is able to cross intestinal barrier and to modulate genes involved in cholesterol homeostasis.

Impact of the two different iron fortified cookies on treatment of anemia in preschool children in Brazil.

INTRODUCTION: Nutritional intervention in pre-school children using cookies prepared with wheat flour enriched with iron and folic acid (CWFFeFA) and cookies prepared with cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) flour fortified with iron and zinc and wheat flour enriched with iron and folic acid (CCFFeZn + WFFeFA). OBJECTIVE: To assess the impact of the ingestion of CWFFeFA and CCFFeZn + WFFeFA by pre-school children, using the cowpea variety BRS-Xiquexique, to control iron-deficiency anaemia. METHODS: Nutritional intervention was conducted in municipal day care centres selected at random (n = 262) involving pre-school children aged 2 to 5 years living in Teresina, state of Piauí, Brazil. To assess the socioeconomic data, BMI-for-age, haemoglobin levels before and after intervention, and dietary intake, the children were divided into group 1 (G1), which received CWFFeFA (30 g), and group 2 (G2), which received CCFFeZn + WFFeFA (30 g). Food acceptance was evaluated daily. RESULTS: The prevalence of anaemia in G1 and G2 before the nutritional intervention was 12.2% (n = 18) and 11.5% (n = 30), respectively. After intervention, the prevalence decreased to 1.4% in G1 (n = 2) and to 4.2% in G2 (n = 11). Food acceptance by pre-school children in G1 and G2 was 97.4% and 94.3%, respectively. CONCLUSION: The use of both types of cookie formulations decreased the prevalence of anaemia among pre-school children, and CCFFeZn + WFFeFA yielded the greatest decrease.

Impact of the two different iron fortified cookies on treatment of anemia in preschool children in Brazil / Impacto de dos galletas diferentes enriquecidas con hierro en el tratamiento de la anemia en niños en edad preescolar en Brasil

Introduction: Nutritional intervention in pre-school children using cookies prepared with wheat flour enriched with iron and folic acid (CWFFeFA) and cookies prepared with cowpea (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) fl our fortified with iron and zinc and wheat flour enriched with iron and folic acid (CCFFeZn + WFFeFA). Objective: To assess the impact of the ingestion of CWFFeFA and CCFFeZn + WFFeFA by pre-school children, using the cowpea variety BRS-Xiquexique, to control iron-deficiency anaemia. Methods: Nutritional intervention was conducted in municipal day care centres selected at random (n = 262) involving pre-school children aged 2 to 5 years living in Teresina, state of Piauí, Brazil. To assess the socioeconomic data, BMI-for-age, haemoglobin levels before and after intervention, and dietary intake, the children were divided into group 1 (G1), which received CWFFeFA (30 g), and group 2 (G2), which received CCFFeZn + WFFeFA (30 g). Food acceptance was evaluated daily. Results: The prevalence of anaemia in G1 and G2 before the nutritional intervention was 12.2% (n = 18) and 11.5% (n = 30), respectively. After intervention, the prevalence decreased to 1.4% in G1 (n = 2) and to 4.2% in G2 (n = 11). Food acceptance by pre-school children in G1 and G2 was 97.4% and 94.3%, respectively. Conclusion: The use of both types of cookie formulations decreased the prevalence of anaemia among pre-school children, and CCFFeZn + WFFeFA yielded the greatest decrease (AU)

Introducción: intervención nutricional en niños en edad preescolar con dos galletas: galletas de harina de trigo enriquecidas con hierro y ácido fólico (BFTF) y galletas con harina de feijão-caupi, biofortificados con zinc y hierro, y harina de trigo enriquecida con hierro y ácido fólico (BFFCb + FTF). Objetivo: evaluar el impacto del consumo de galletas a base de harina de trigo fortifi cada con hierro y ácido fólico y de galletas enriquecidas con harina de feijão-caupi (Vigna unguiculata (L.) Walp) variedad BRS-Xiquexique, biofortificados con hierro y zinc, por los preescolares para controlar la anemia ferropriva. Métodos: intervención en guarderías municipales seleccionados aleatoriamente (n = 262), niños en edad preescolar de 2 a 5 años en Teresina, Brasil. Con el fi n de evaluar los datos socioeconómicos, o IMC para la edad y exámenes de hemoglobina antes y después de la intervención, y el consumo de alimentos se dividen en grupos: grupo 1 (G1) recibió el BFTF (30 g) y el grupo 2 (G2), que recibió el BFFCb + FTF (30 g); analizar la aceptación diaria de galletas. Resultados: la prevalencia de anemia antes de la intervención en los grupos G1 y G2 fue de 12,2% (n = 18) y 11,5% (n = 30), respectivamente. Después de la intervención en el G1 se redujo a 1,4% (n = 2) y en el G2 a 4,2% (n = 11). La aceptación de las galletas por los niños en edad preescolar en G1 y G2 fue del 97,4% y 94,3%, respectivamente. Conclusión: el uso de dos galletas disminuyó la prevalencia de anemia en niños preescolares, destacándose que en la BFFCb+FTF hubo una mayor reducción (AU)

Cowpea protein reduces LDL-cholesterol and apolipoprotein B concentrations, but does not improve biomarkers of inflammation or endothelial dysfunction in adults with moderate hypercholesterolemia / Proteína caupí reduce las concentraciones de LDL-colesterol y apolipoproteína B, pero no mejora biomarcadores inflamatorios y disfunción endotelial en adultos con hipercolesterolemia moderada

Introduction: The risks of cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death in the world, can be reduced by diet. Cowpea protein has been shown to significantly reduce total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and liver steatosis in hamsters. Objective: The objective of this proof-of-concept study was to verify whether the consumption of cowpea protein improves lipid profile and biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in adults with moderate hypercholesterolemia. Methods: In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design, 38 hypercholesterolemic subjects (LDL-cholesterol = 182.5 ± 2.7 mg/dL) consumed 25 g/day of cowpea protein isolate or 25 g/day of casein (control group) for 6 weeks each, separated by a 4-week washout interval. Fasting blood samples were collected at baseline and at the end of each diet period. Lipids (total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol) were determined by enzymatic methods, apolipoproteins (apoA-I and apoB) by standardized immunoassays, inflammatory biomarkers (C-reactive protein) by turbidimetry, and biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction (intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. Results and discussion: Consumption of cowpea protein significantly reduced total cholesterol (12 %), LDL cholesterol (18.9 %), non HDL-cholesterol (16 %) and apoB (14 %), and increased HDL-cholesterol (+2.7 %). No significant differences between treatment groups were observed for any of the serum inflammatory or endothelial dysfunction biomarkers. Conclusion: The present findings demonstrated the favorable effect of cowpea protein consumption on proatherogenic serum lipids and apoB in subjects with moderate hypercholesterolemia, similar to what was observed in a previous studies on animals (AU)

Introducción: Los riesgos de las enfermedades cardiovasculares, la principal causa de muerte en el mundo, pueden ser reducidos con la dieta. Proteína caupí en hámsters redujo el colesterol total, LDL-colesterol, así como la esteatosis hepática de manera significativa. Objetivo: Este estudio de prueba de concepto fue verificar si el consumo de proteína de frijol mejora el perfil de lípidos y actúa sobre los biomarcadores de inflamación y disfunción endotelial en pacientes con hipercolesterolemia moderada. Métodos: En un diseño aleatorio doble ciego cruzado, 38 sujetos con hipercolesterolemia (colesterol-LDL = 182,5 ± 2,7 mg/dL) consumieron 25 g / día de aislado de proteína de frijol o 25 g / día de caseína (grupo control) durante seis semanas cada uno, y un intervalo de lavado de cuatro semanas Se recogieron muestras de sangre en ayunas al comienzo y al final de cada período de dieta. Los lípidos (colesterol total, LDL-colesterol, triglicéridos, HDL-colesterol) se determinaron por métodos enzimáticos, apolipoproteínas (apoA-I y apoB) por inmunoensayos normalizados, biomarcadores de inflamación (proteína C reactiva) por turbidimetría y los biomarcadores de disfunción endotelial (molecule-1 de adhesión intercelular y de molécula-1 de adhesión celular vascular) por técnicas de ensayo de inmunoabsorción ligados a enzimas. Resultados y discusión: El consumo de proteínas caupí redujo significativamente el colesterol total (12%), el colesterol LDL (18,9%), colesterol no HDL (16%), apoB (14%), y aumentó el colesterol HDL (2,7%). No se observaron diferencias significativas relacionadas con el grupo de tratamiento para cualquiera de los biomarcadores inflamatorios y de disfunción endotelial. Conclusión: Los presentes hallazgos demostraron el efecto favorable del consumo de proteína caupí en lípidos séricos pro-aterogénicas y apoB en sujetos con hipercolesterolemia moderada, de manera similar a lo observado en un trabajo previo con los animales (AU)

Relationship between C -reactive protein and other cardiovascular risk factors in hypercholesterolemic individ alsa / Relação entre a proteína C reativa e os fatores de risco para doenças cardiovasculares em indivíduos hipercolesterolêmicos

Objective: To evaluate the correlation between ultrasensitive C-reactive protein (us-CRP) and markers of cardiovascular risk in hypercholesterolemic adults of differing nutritional status. Methods: Forty-six hypercholesterolemic subjects (7 men: 30 to 70 years; 39 women: 45 to 70 years) with total cholesterol >240 mg/dL were studied. Anthropometric variables (weight, height, and waist and hip circumference) were measured, as well as us-CRP, total cholesterol (TC), HDL-C, LDL-C, VLDL-C, triglycerides, apolipoprotein AI, apolipoprotein B, glucose and fasting insulin, and homeostasis model assessment (HOMA-IR) of insulin resistance. Spearman correlations and multiple linear regression analysis were performed at a level of significance of 5%. Results: Plasma levels of triglycerides, VLDL-C, glucose, HDL-C and us-CRP were higher in overweight subjects (p<0.05). Ultrasensitive CRP was positively correlated with body mass index (r=0.32) and hip circumference (r=0.30), as well as with TC (r=0.33), apolipoprotein B (r=0.36) and glucose (r=0.42). Regression analysis showed that us-CRP concentration was positively associated with TC, glucose, and waist-hip ratio. These parameters explained 41% of the variability in us-CRP. Conclusion: Obese individuals present a higher concentration of us-CRP, fasting glucose, triglycerides, and VLDL-C. Excess weight is associated with us-CRP, a finding highlighting the importance of this biomarker for the detection of individuals at cardiovascular risk.

Objetivo: Avaliar a correlação entre a proteína C reativa ultrasensível (PCR-us) e os marcadores clássicos de risco cardiovascular em adultos hipercolesterolêmicos em diferentes estados nutricionais. Métodos: Amostra de 46 indivíduos hipercolesterolêmicos (7 homens: 30 a 70 anos e 39 mulheres: 45 a 70 anos) com colesterol total (CT) >240 mg/dL. Realizou-se determinações antropométricas como peso, altura, circunferência da cintura (CC) e do quadril (CQ), além de medidas plasmáticas de PCR-us, CT, HDL-C, LDL-C, VLDL-C, triglicerídeos (TG), apolipoproteína AI (Apo AI), apolipoproteína B (Apo B), glicose e insulina de jejum e HOMA-IR. Realizou-se correlações de Spearman e análise de regressão linear múltipla ao nível de significância de 5%. Resultados: Os níveis plasmáticos de TG, VLDL-C, glicose, HDL-C e PCR-us foram maiores em indivíduos com sobrepeso (p<0,05). A PCR-us foi positivamente correlacionada com o índice de massa corporal (r=0,32) e com a CQ (r=0,30), bem como com o CT (r=0,33), Apo B (r=0,36) e glicose (r=0,42). A análise de regressão mostrou que a concentração de PCR-us foi positivamente associada ao CT, glicose e razão cintura-quadril. Esses parâmetros explicam a variabilidade da PCR-us em 41%. Conclusão: Os indivíduos obesos têm maior concentração plasmática de PCR-us, glicose, TG e VLDL-C. O excesso de peso está correlacionado com a PCR-us, mostrando a importância deste biomarcador para triagem de indivíduos de risco cardiovascular.

Cowpea protein reduces LDL-cholesterol and apolipoprotein B concentrations, but does not improve biomarkers of inflammation or endothelial dysfunction in adults with moderate hypercholesterolemia.

INTRODUCTION: The risks of cardiovascular diseases, the leading cause of death in the world, can be reduced by diet. Cowpea protein has been shown to significantly reduce total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and liver steatosis in hamsters. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this proof-of-concept study was to verify whether the consumption of cowpea protein improves lipid profile and biomarkers of inflammation and endothelial dysfunction in adults with moderate hypercholesterolemia. METHODS: In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design, 38 hypercholesterolemic subjects (LDL-cholesterol = 182.5 ± 2.7 mg/dL) consumed 25 g/day of cowpea protein isolate or 25 g/day of casein (control group) for 6 weeks each, separated by a 4-week washout interval. Fasting blood samples were collected at baseline and at the end of each diet period. Lipids (total cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL-cholesterol) were determined by enzymatic methods, apolipoproteins (apoA-I and apoB) by standardized immunoassays, inflammatory biomarkers (C-reactive protein) by turbidimetry, and biomarkers of endothelial dysfunction (intercellular adhesion molecule 1 and vascular cell adhesion molecule 1) by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assays. RESULTS AND DISCUSSION: Consumption of cowpea protein significantly reduced total cholesterol ( 12 %), LDL cholesterol ( 18.9 %), non HDL-cholesterol ( 16 %) and apoB ( 14 %), and increased HDL cholesterol (+2.7 %). No significant differences between treatment groups were observed for any of the serum inflammatory or endothelial dysfunction biomarkers. CONCLUSION: The present findings demonstrated the favorable effect of cowpea protein consumption on proatherogenic serum lipids and apoB in subjects with moderate hypercholesterolemia, similar to what was observed in a previous studies on animals.

Introducción: Los riesgos de las enfermedades cardiovasculares, la principal causa de muerte en el mundo, pueden ser reducidos con la dieta. Proteína caupí en hámsters redujo el colesterol total, LDL-colesterol, así como la esteatosis hepática de manera significativa. Objetivo: Este estudio de prueba de concepto fue verificar si el consumo de proteína de frijol mejora el perfil de lípidos y actúa sobre los biomarcadores de inflamación y disfunción endotelial en pacientes con hipercolesterolemia moderada. Métodos: En un diseño aleatorio doble ciego cruzado, 38 sujetos con hipercolesterolemia (colesterol-LDL = 182,5 ± 2,7 mg/dL) consumieron 25 g / día de aislado de proteína de frijol o 25 g / día de caseína (grupo control) durante seis semanas cada uno, y un intervalo de lavado de cuatro semanas Se recogieron muestras de sangre en ayunas al comienzo y al final de cada período de dieta. Los lípidos (colesterol total, LDL-colesterol, triglicéridos, HDL-colesterol) se determinaron por métodos enzimáticos, apolipoproteínas (apoA-I y apoB) por inmunoensayos normalizados, biomarcadores de inflamación (proteína C reactiva) por turbidimetría y los biomarcadores de disfunción endotelial (molecule-1 de adhesión intercelular y de molécula-1 de adhesión celular vascular) por técnicas de ensayo de inmunoabsorción ligados a enzimas. Resultados y discusión: El consumo de proteínas caupí redujo significativamente el colesterol total (12%), el colesterol LDL (18,9%), colesterol no HDL (16%), apoB (14%), y aumentó el colesterol HDL (2,7%). No se observaron diferencias significativas relacionadas con el grupo de tratamiento para cualquiera de los biomarcadores inflamatorios y de disfunción endotelial. Conclusión: Los presentes hallazgos demostraron el efecto favorable del consumo de proteína caupí en lípidos séricos pro-aterogénicas y apoB en sujetos con hipercolesterolemia moderada, de manera similar a lo observado en un trabajo previo con los animales.

Major peptides from amaranth (Amaranthus cruentus) protein inhibit HMG-CoA reductase activity.

The objective of this study was to identify the major peptides generated by the in vitro hydrolysis of Amaranthus cruentus protein and to verify the effect of these peptides on the activity of 3-hydroxy-3-methyl-glutaryl-CoA reductase (HMG-CoA reductase), a key enzyme in cholesterol biosynthesis. A protein isolate was prepared, and an enzymatic hydrolysis that simulated the in vivo digestion of the protein was performed. After hydrolysis, the peptide mixture was filtered through a 3 kDa membrane. The peptide profile of this mixture was determined by reversed phase high performance chromatography (RP-HPLC), and the peptide identification was performed by LC-ESI MS/MS. Three major peptides under 3 kDa were detected, corresponding to more than 90% of the peptides of similar size produced by enzymatic hydrolysis. The sequences identified were GGV, IVG or LVG and VGVI or VGVL. These peptides had not yet been described for amaranth protein nor are they present in known sequences of amaranth grain protein, except LVG, which can be found in amaranth α­amylase. Their ability to inhibit the activity of HMG-CoA reductase was determined, and we found that the sequences GGV, IVG, and VGVL, significantly inhibited this enzyme, suggesting a possible hypocholesterolemic effect.

Peptides from cowpea present antioxidant activity, inhibit cholesterol synthesis and its solubilisation into micelles.

In previous studies, it was reported that the protein isolated from the cowpea interferes favourably in lipid metabolism, and reduces cholesterol synthesis. The present study investigated the role of cowpea peptide fractions in the micellar solubilisation of cholesterol, in the 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase (HMGCR) activity, and in the in vitro antioxidant capacity, considering the effects of thermal processing. The protein was isolated from the raw and cooked beans and digested to simulate human digestion. The peptides from the protein isolate of raw bean with molecular mass lower than 3kDa reduced 89% of the HMGCR enzymatic reaction velocity. The cooked cowpeas were more effective in inhibiting the micellar solubility of cholesterol than the raw ones but not the antioxidant activity. This is the first report that cowpea peptides inhibit cholesterol homeostasis in vitro in two distinct routes, and act as an antioxidant.

Amaranth oil increased fecal excretion of bile Acid but had no effect in reducing plasma cholesterol in hamsters.

Hamsters were fed for 4 weeks on four different diets: control (C) (balanced diet containing 20 % corn oil as the lipid source), hypercholesterolemic (H) (identical to C but containing 12 % coconut oil, 8 % corn oil and 0.1 % cholesterol as the lipid source), amaranth oil (A) (identical to H without corn oil but with amaranth oil), and squalene (S) (identical to H but admixed with squalene in the ratio found in amaranth oil). There were no significant differences in lipid profile, and in the cholesterol excreted in the animals' feces from amaranth oil (A) and squalene (S) groups. Fecal excretion of bile acids was greater in the amaranth oil (A) and squalene groups (S) as compared to the other groups. The scores of steatosis and parenchymal inflammation observed in the amaranth oil (A) and squalene groups (S) were superior to the ones observed in the other groups. Our findings demonstrated that amaranth oil, and its component squalene, increased the excretion of bile acids but did not have a hypocholesterolemic effect in hamsters fed on a diet containing high amounts of saturated fat and cholesterol.

Frutanos do tipo inulina e aumento da absorção de cálcio: uma revisão sistemática / Inulin-type fructans and calcium absorption enhancement: a systematic review

Realizou-se uma revisão sistemática da literatura sobre os efeitos do consumo de frutanos do tipo inulina na absorção de cálcio. Resultados de quatro dos sete ensaios clínicos duplo-cegos controlados aleatorizados relatados neste trabalho indicam que o consumo diário da mistura de frutanos (inulina e oligofrutose 1:1) aumenta a absorção de cálcio, dependendo da idade cronológica e fisiológica, bem como do estado menopausal de indivíduos saudáveis que consomem quantidades adequadas de cálcio. O número limitado de ensaios clínicos realizados e as diferenças relativas ao planejamento experimental, tempo de estudo, tipo e quantidade de frutano consumido (inulina, oligofrutose ou a mistura de ambos), bem como a faixa etária dos indivíduos, impedem a generalização dos resultados observados. Esta revisão demonstra a necessidade de mais ensaios clínicos de longa duração, nos quais tanto a absorção de cálcio como a densidade mineral óssea sejam avaliadas. Futuros estudos devem contribuir para a compreensão dos mecanismos de ação dos frutanos no aumento da absorção de cálcio; para avaliar se esse efeito persiste em longo prazo e se pode ser considerado como benefício real para a saúde óssea; e para testar se tais efeitos poderiam beneficiar indivíduos de outras faixas etárias e diferentes condições fisiológicas. Evidências científicas consistentes e acumuladas ainda são necessárias para poder considerar o consumo de frutanos como uma estratégia de prevenção da osteoporose.

We performed a systematic review of literature regarding the effects of inulin-type fructans consumption on calcium absorption. Results of four from seven double-blind randomized controlled clinical trials revised in this work showed that daily consumption of fructans mixture (inulin and oligofructose 1:1) increases calcium absorption, depending on the chronological and physiological age, and menopausal status of healthy individuals who consume adequate amounts of calcium. Due to the limited number of clinical trials and the differences on the experimental design, follow-up, fructans type (inulin, oligofructose or their mixture) and quantity consumed, and the individuals' age, the results cannot be generalized. This review demonstrates the need for more long-term follow-up clinical trial, in which both calcium absorption and bone mineral density are measured. Further studies may help understand the mechanisms underlying the effects of inulin-type fructans on calcium absorption, and to evaluate if the increased calcium absorption is long-term persistence and if it can be translated into real benefits to bone health; and also to test whether these effects could benefit individuals with other age groups and in different physiological conditions. Consistent accumulated scientific evidences are still necessary to consider inulin-type fructans consumption as a prevention strategy for osteoporosis.

Cholesterol-lowering effect of whole lupin (Lupinus albus) seed and its protein isolate.

This study describes the hypocholesterolaemic effect of whole lupin and its protein in hamsters. The diets were: casein (control group HC), lupin protein isolate (group HPI) and whole lupin seed (group HWS). Diets from HPI and HWS promoted a significant reduction of total cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol in the hamsters' plasma as compared with HC. The true digestibility of HPI and HC groups were similar and differed significantly from the HWS one, which in turn showed a significant difference in total sterol excretion as compared to the former groups. Histological analysis of the liver revealed that animals fed on HPI and HWS diets presented a low level of steatosis (level 1) as compared to the ones fed on HC diet (level 4). Our findings demonstrate that protein isolate from Lupinus albus from Brazil has a metabolic effect on endogenous cholesterol metabolism and a protector effect on development of hepatic steatosis.

Development of corn and flaxseed snacks with high-fibre content using response surface methodology (RSM).

With the increasing emphasis on health and well-being, nutrition aspects need to be incorporated as a dimension of product development. Thus, the production of a high-fibre content snack food from a mixture of corn and flaxseed flours was optimized by response surface methodology. The independent variables considered in this study were: feed moisture, process temperature and flaxseed flour addition, as they were found to significantly impact the resultant product. These variables were studied according to a rotatable composite design matrix ( - 1.68, - 1, 0, 1, 1.68). Response variable was the expansion ratio since it has been highly correlated with acceptability. The optimum corn-flaxseed snack obtained presented a sevenfold increase in dietary fibre, almost 100% increase in protein content compared to the pure corn snack, and yielded an acceptability score of 6.93. This acceptability score was similar to those observed for corn snack brands in the market, indicating the potential commercial use of this new product, which can help to increase the daily consumption of dietary fibre.

Avanços na produção de pães sem glúten: aspectos tecnológicos e nutricionais: [revisão] / Advances in the production of gluten-free breads: technological and nutritional aspects: [review]

Esta revisão de literatura teve como objetivo levantar informações sobre a produção de pães sem glúten, com ênfase nos aspectos tecnológicos e nutricionais. As abordagens tecnológicas incluiram o uso de amidos, hidrocoloides, proteínas, enzimas, emulsificantes e suas combinações com o objetivo de melhorar a estrutura, a textura, a aceitabilidade e a vida-de-prateleira de pães sem glúten. Foram apresentadas pesquisas sobre a adição de fibras alimentares, proteínas, minerais e farinhas de grãos integrais para melhorar o valor nutritivo desses produtos. Verificou-se a necessidade de mais pesquisa e desenvolvimento nessa área, facilitando o acesso dos pacientes celíacos a pães isentos de glúten com qualidade tecnológica e nutricional adequada, contribuindo para maior adesão à dieta específica e melhorando a qualidade de vida desses indivíduos.

Sensory acceptability of raw and extruded bovine rumen protein in processed meat products.

The use of bovine rumen protein (raw and extruded) as a replacement for extruded soy protein concentrate in three meat products (pork sausage, chicken hamburger, and kibbe) was investigated. Similarity between rumen and soy protein meat products was assessed using triangle tests and sensory acceptability evaluated by consumer panelists using a nine-point hedonic scale. The addition of raw rumen protein was detected in all meat product types tested, while extruded rumen protein was only detected in kibbe. The addition of raw rumen protein decreased the acceptability of pork sausage aroma and flavor, but improved kibbe appearance, texture and overall acceptability. The addition of extruded rumen protein reduced the acceptability of chicken hamburger texture, but improved pork sausage flavor. Replacement of soy protein by bovine rumen protein is feasible based upon sensory results, but depended upon its form and the type of meat product to which it was added.

Influence of thermoplastic extrusion on the nutritive value of bovine rumen protein.

This study investigated the impact of thermoplastic extrusion on the nutritive quality of bovine rumen protein. Proximal composition, amino acid profile and in vivo true protein digestibility among rats were determined in raw (RBR) and extruded (EBR) rumen. Raw and extruded bovine rumen presented high percentages of protein (more than 95% on dry basis). Neither raw nor extruded proteins had any limiting amino acid, and the RBR and EBR amino acid scores were, respectively, 1.28 (leucine) and 1.25 (methionine plus cystine). Extrusion reduced significantly true protein digestibility from 97.7% to 93.1% (p<0.001), but protein digestibility-corrected amino acid scores for both proteins (RBR and EBR) were 100%. Animal growth presented comparable profiles using raw and extruded rumen. In conclusion, thermoplastic extrusion did not affect the protein quality of bovine rumen, and this does not hinder the use of this material as a food ingredient.

Efeito do processamento na atividade antioxidante do grão de amaranto (Amaranthus cruentus L. BRS-Alegria) / Effect of processing on the antioxidant activity of amaranth grain

As características nutricionais, funcionais e agrícolas do amaranto são responsáveis pelo aumento do interesse por este alimento nas últimas décadas. O grão pode ser cozido, estourado, torrado, extrusado ou moído para ser consumido. Foi avaliado o efeito destes processamentos na atividade antioxidante do grão de amaranto, através das determinações do teor de fenólicos totais e da atividade antioxidante in vitro por dois métodos: inibição da oxidação lipídica pelo sistema β-caroteno/ácido linoléico e índice de atividade antioxidante pelo aparelho Rancimat®. Os processamentos reduziram em média o teor de fenólicos totais do grão de amaranto de 31,7 para 22,0 mg de equivalentes de ácido gálico/g de resíduo seco. Observou-se que o extrato obtido por etanol do grão torrado foi o único a apresentar menor índice de atividade antioxidante (IAA) em relação ao grão cru (1,3 v 1,7). Os processos de extrusão, torração e explosão não alteraram a capacidade de inibição da oxidação lipídica (IOL) do amaranto (55 por cento). Já o cozimento aumentou o IOL (79 por cento), o que pode ter ocorrido devido ao maior tempo de processamento sob alta temperatura (100ºC/10min). Os métodos mais comuns de processamento do grão de amaranto ocasionaram redução do teor de fenólicos totais, no entanto a atividade antioxidante do estourado e do extrusado, avaliada pelos dois métodos, foi semelhante ao do grão cru. O grão de amaranto tanto cru como processado apresenta potencial antioxidante. Polifenóis, antocianinas, flavonóides, tocoferóis, vitamina C e compostos gerados na reação de Maillard podem estar relacionados à atividade antioxidante deste grão.

Amaranth has attracted increasing interest over recent decades because of its nutritional, functional and agricultural characteristics. Amaranth grain can be cooked, popped, toasted, extruded or milled for consumption. This study investigated the effect of these processes on the antioxidant activity of amaranth grain. Total phenolic content and in vitro antioxidant activity were determined according to two methods: inhibition of lipid oxidation using the β-carotene/linoleic acid system and the antioxidant activity index using the Rancimat® apparatus. The processing reduced the mean total phenolics content in amaranth grain from 31.7 to 22.0 mg of gallic acid equivalent/g of dry residue. It was observed that the ethanol extract from toasted grain was the only one that presented a lower antioxidant activity index compared with the raw grain (1.3 versus 1.7). The extrusion, toasting and popping processes did not change the capacity to inhibit amaranth lipid oxidation (55 percent). However, cooking increased the inhibition of lipid oxidation (79 percent), perhaps because of the longer time at high temperatures in this process (100°C/10 min). The most common methods for processing amaranth grain caused reductions in the total phenolics content, although the antioxidant activity of popped and extruded grain, evaluated by the two methods, was similar to that of the raw grain. Both raw and processed amaranth grain presents antioxidant potential. Polyphenols, anthocyanins, flavonoids, tocopherols, vitamin C levels and Maillard reaction products may be related to the antioxidant activity of this grain.

Marcador in vitro da resposta glicêmica dos alimentos como ferramenta de auxílio à prescrição e avaliação de dietas / In vitro indicator of the glycemic response to foods as a tool for diet prescriptions and evaluation

As dietas de baixo índice glicêmico e baixa carga glicêmica têm sido associadas à redução do risco de doenças crônicas. Por esse motivo há um interesse crescente na sua aplicação para avaliação e orientação nutricional. No entanto, existem limitações quanto ao uso de dados publicados de índice glicêmico e carga glicêmica, pela variedade e formas de processamento dos alimentos vegetais existentes. Devido à dificuldade de realização de ensaios in vivo, uma vez que são custosos, trabalhosos, invasivos e necessitam de período considerável de experimentação, foram desenvolvidas metodologias in vitro que, a partir da velocidade de digestão dos carboidratos, permitem estimar o índice glicêmico dos alimentos de forma prática, simples e econômica. O presente trabalho apresenta o uso de um marcador in vitro, o índice de hidrólise, na estimativa do índice glicêmico e da carga glicêmica, o método mais empregado por pesquisadores brasileiros, visando à sua aplicação por profissionais da área de Nutrição. Os cálculos e as interpretações para estimativa do Índice glicêmico e da carga glicêmica são apresentados por meio de um exemplo prático com alguns alimentos brasileiros e com o grão de amaranto submetido a diferentes processamentos. Na ausência de dados referentes à resposta glicêmica do alimento de interesse, os valores do marcador in vitro podem ser utilizados para estimar o índice glicêmico e a carga glicêmica dos alimentos. Porém, este marcador não deve ser utilizado indiscriminadamente, uma vez que leva em consideração apenas os fatores intrínsecos aos alimentos que influenciam o aproveitamento dos carboidratos disponíveis.

Low glycemic index and low glycemic load diets have been associated with a reduced risk of certain chronic diseases. For this reason, there has been a growing interest in using these concepts' for nutritional assessment and diet prescription. However, the usage of published glycemic index and glycemic load data is limited, because of the variety of types and preparations of plant-source foods. Since in vivo trials are difficult because of their cost labor-intense and time-consuming procedures, in vitro methods have been developed. These methods are based on the speed of digestion of the different carbohydrates, which allows the glycemic index of foods to be estimated in a practical, simple and cheap manner. This paper presents the use of an in vitro indicator, the hydrolysis index, to estimate the glycemic index and glycemic load. This method is the most commonly used glycemic load and index estimation method in Brazil and this paper aims to promote its use among dieticians. The calculations and interpretations to estimate glycemic load and index are presented by means of a practical example using some Brazilian staple foods and the amaranth grain processed in different ways. In the absence of data on the glycemic response of a particular food, the hydrolysis index can be used to estimate its glycemic index and load. However, the in vitro predictor cannot be used indiscriminately in substitution to glycemic index, since it takes into account only the intrinsic factors of foods that affect the glycemic response.