Effects of freeze-dried bocaiuva (Acrocomia aculeata) nuts on mice fed a high-fat diet

Nuts of bocaiuva (Acrocomia aculeata) are a good source of fiber and fatty acids, making it an attractive resource for preventing obesity and metabolic alterations. In such context, this study aimed to evaluate the effect of freeze-dried bocaiuva nuts in mice fed a high-fat diet. For this, the animals received a high-fat diet plus freeze-dried bocaiuva nuts (1%, 2% and 4%) for 12 weeks. Animal body weight, food intake and glycemic profile were evaluated during the experimental period. We collected blood for biochemical tests and samples for histological analysis of the liver, pancreas and adipose tissue, and liver lipid content. The results showed its consumption, regardless of concentrations of freeze-dried bocaiuva nuts, did not influence weight gain and adiposity. We detected a minor effect on glucose lowering, but the HF A1% concentration reduced serum triglycerides. HF A1%, A2% and A4% increased HDL-c values when compared to SHAM and CHF.