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Both raw and retrograded starch decrease serum triacylglycerol concentration and fat accretion in the rat
E A de Deckere1, W J Kloots, J M van Amelsvoort
1Unilever Research Laboratorium Vlaardingen, Olivier van Noortlaan, The Netherlands.
The British Journal of Nutrition
|February 1, 1995
Summary
Dietary resistant starch, found in raw or retrograded forms, reduces energy absorption. This leads to decreased abdominal fat and lower triacylglycerol levels in rats, impacting growth and fat pad weight.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Gastroenterology
- Metabolic Research
Background:
- Resistant starch (RS) is a type of dietary fiber that resists digestion in the small intestine.
- Understanding the metabolic effects of different forms of RS is crucial for dietary recommendations.
- Previous research indicates potential benefits of RS on energy balance and lipid metabolism.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the impact of various resistant starches (raw and retrograded) on energy absorption and metabolic parameters in rats.
- To determine the relationship between energy absorption, growth, fat deposition, and serum lipid profiles.
- To compare the effects of raw versus retrograded resistant starches on intestinal and fecal variables.
Main Methods:
- Male Wistar rats were fed diets containing different types and forms of resistant starch (amylomaize, potato, high-amylose) or normal maize starch for 6 weeks.
- Measurements included energy absorption, growth rate, epididymal fat pad weight, serum total cholesterol and triacylglycerol levels, and intestinal/fecal parameters.
- Specific analysis of hydrogen (H2) excretion and short-chain fatty acids (propionic, butyric) in cecal contents was performed.
Main Results:
- Resistant starches significantly affected energy absorption, growth, fat pad weight, and serum triacylglycerol concentrations, but not serum total cholesterol.
- Positive correlations were observed between energy absorption, growth, and fat pad weight, and between fat pad weight and serum lipids.
- No significant differences were found between raw and retrograded RS, except for raw potato starch showing minimal H2 excretion and lower short-chain fatty acids.
Conclusions:
- Dietary resistant starch effectively reduces energy absorption in rats.
- Reduced energy absorption is associated with decreased abdominal fat accumulation and lower serum triacylglycerol levels.
- Resistant starch holds potential for managing body weight and improving lipid profiles.