Effect of Calafate (Berberis microphylla) Intake on Plasma Atherogenic Indices in Rats With High-Sucrose Diet-Induced...

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are multifactorial conditions strongly linked to elevated obesity rates and sedentary lifestyle; among the contributing mechanisms, alterations in lipid metabolism-particularly dyslipidemia-play a central role in their pathogenesis. The present study aimed to evaluate the effects of calafate (Berberis microphylla) supplementation on the lipid profile and atherogenic indices in rats with obesity induced by a high-sucrose diet. Sprague Dawley rats received a high-sucrose diet and were supplemented with 350 mg/kg/day of freeze-dried calafate for 10 weeks (BM group). Dietary intake, plasma glucose, lipid parameters, and cardiovascular risk indices were assessed. Compared to controls, calafate-supplemented rats showed a significant increase in HDL-c and total cholesterol, with the latter showing a 166% elevation. Additionally, calafate intake was associated with a marked decrease in the atherogenic index and the glucose-triglyceride index, suggesting an improvement in cardiovascular risk markers. These findings support the potential cardioprotective and antithrombotic properties of calafate, reinforcing its relevance as a functional food.