Abstract

REIS, Sandra Aparecida dos et al. Mechanisms used by inulin-type fructans to improve the lipid profile. Nutr. Hosp. [online]. 2015, vol.31, n.2, pp.528-534. ISSN 1699-5198.  https://dx.doi.org/10.3305/nh.2015.31.2.7706.

Aims: The consumption of prebiotics has been associated with improvement in the lipid profile. Thus, this review aims to describe the main mechanisms by which inulin-type fructans improve the lipid profile and thereby reduce the cardiovascular risk. Data synthesis: Inulin-type fructans have been demonstrated to improve the lipid profile through a number of mechanisms. These mechanisms include: decrease in gene expression of hepatic enzymes responsible for de novo synthesis of lipids; increase of muscle lipoprotein lipase enzyme activity, enhancing the production of short-chain fatty acids; altered production of polyamines which increases the production of satiogenic peptide; altered blood glucose and insulinemia; increase of fecal excretion of bile salts and cholesterol and increase of the Bifidobacterium population. Conclusions: The consumption of inulin-type fructans enhances lipid profile. Generally, the mechanisms vary according to the physiologic state of the individual and the type of diet to which the inulin-type fructans are added. Thus, inulin may be used for the prevention and/or treatment of cardiovascular diseases.

Keywords : Dyslipidemias; Inulin; Cardiovascular disease; Lipid metabolism.

        · abstract in Spanish     · text in English     · English ( pdf )