Chitin-glucan fiber effects on oxidized low-density lipoprotein: a randomized controlled trial

Area of Science:

• Nutritional Science
• Cardiovascular Health
• Biochemistry

Background:

• Elevated oxidized low-density lipoprotein (OxLDL) is implicated in inflammation and increased risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.
• OxLDL is also associated with complications of diabetes mellitus.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the efficacy of chitin-glucan (CG) in reducing OxLDL levels.
• To assess the combined effect of CG and an olive oil (OO) extract on OxLDL.

Main Methods:

• A 6-week, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involving 130 participants with borderline to high LDL cholesterol.
• Participants received daily doses of CG (4.5 g or 1.5 g), CG (1.5 g) plus OO extract (135 mg), or placebo.

Main Results:

• A daily dose of 4.5 g CG significantly reduced OxLDL compared to placebo (P=0.035).
• CG supplementation was associated with lower LDL cholesterol levels, with statistical significance observed for the 1.5 g/day group (P=0.019).
• No significant effects were observed on HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, glucose, insulin, or F2-isoprostane levels. Adverse events were similar across groups.

Conclusions:

• Chitin-glucan (CG) at 4.5 g/day demonstrated a significant reduction in OxLDL levels over 6 weeks.
• This reduction in OxLDL may contribute to a decreased risk of atherosclerosis.