Green-banana biomass consumption by diabetic patients improves plasma low-density lipoprotein particle functionality

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of 6-months consumption of green-banana biomass on the LDL particle functionality in subjects with type 2 diabetes. Subjects (n = 39, mean age 65 years old) of both sexes with diabetes (HbA1c ≥ 6·5%) were randomized to receive nutritional support plus green-banana biomass (40 g) (n = 21) or diet alone (n = 18) for 6-months. Non-linear optical responses of LDL solutions from these participants were studied by Z-scan technique. UV-visible spectrophotometer was used to measure the absorbance of the LDL samples. Small Angle X-ray Scattering and Dynamic Light Scattering experiments were used to look for any structural changes in LDL samples and to determine their size distribution. The Lipoprint test was used to determine the LDL sub-fractions in terms of distribution and size. Consumption of green-banana biomass, reduced total- (p = 0.010), non-HDL-cholesterol (p = 0.043), glucose (p = 0.028) and HbA1c (p = 0.0007), and also improved the protection of the LDL particle against oxidation, by the increase in carotenoids content in the particles (p = 0.007). This higher protection against modifications may decrease the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. These benefits of the green-banana biomass encourage the use of resistant starches with potential clinical applications in individuals with pre-diabetes and diabetes.