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Exploring the Functional Potential of Date (Phoenix dactylifera) Seed Bioactives in Modulating Gut Microbiota in
Nouf Abdullah Alharbi1, Saleh A Asanie1, Asmahan A Ali2
1Department of Basic Health Sciences, College of Applied Medical Sciences Qassim University Buraydah Saudi Arabia.
Food Science & Nutrition
|May 6, 2026
Summary
Date seed powder supplementation improved gut microbiota and kidney function in diabetic rats. This study highlights the health benefits of date seed by-products, particularly for managing diabetes-related complications.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science and Food Chemistry
- Microbiology and Gut Health
- Diabetology and Metabolic Health
Background:
- Date fruits (Phoenix dactilyfera L.) generate substantial by-products like seeds and fibers with untapped nutritional and economic potential.
- Understanding the functional properties of date seed powder (DSP) is crucial for its valorization and application in health management.
- Diabetic complications often involve dysregulated gut microbiota (GM) and adverse changes in lipid profiles and kidney function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of date seed powder (DSP) supplementation on the health status of diabetic rats.
- To evaluate the effects of DSP on gut microbiota (GM) modulation in a diabetic model.
- To assess the potential of date seed by-products as a functional ingredient for managing diabetes-related health issues.
Main Methods:
- Date seeds were processed into powder (DSP) and chemically analyzed for composition (fiber, sugar, fat, minerals).
- Diabetic rats were fed diets supplemented with 5%, 10%, or 15% DSP, alongside a control healthy group.
- Blood samples were analyzed for glucose, lipid profiles (CHO, TG, HDL, LDL), and kidney function markers (Urea, Creatinine); gut microbiota composition was also assessed.
Main Results:
- DSP is rich in crude fiber (77%), crude fat (6%), and minerals like potassium and iron.
- DSP supplementation, particularly at 10% and 15%, modulated gut microbiota, reducing Clostridium histolyticum and enhancing Bifidobacteria and Lactobacillus.
- Significant improvements in kidney function and lipid profiles were observed, especially at 15% DSP supplementation, with decreased CHO and TG and increased HDL-c.
Conclusions:
- Valorization of date seed by-products shows significant potential for improving lipid profiles and kidney function in diabetic models.
- The observed health benefits are linked to DSP's antioxidant, mineral, and fiber content, influencing gut microbiota composition.
- Further human studies are warranted to confirm these findings and establish sustainable utilization methods for food waste.
