Effects of Banana (Musa spp.) Bract Flour on Rats Fed High-Calorie Diet

Abstract

Research background: The extensive cultivation of bananas (Musa sp.) is related to producing tons of residues, such as leaves, pseudostems, and bracts (inflorescences). The banana bract is a commercially interesting residue due to its dietary fiber content and high antioxidant potential. In this scenario, this study evaluated the effects of administering banana bract flour in animal models fed a cafeteria diet. Experimental approach: Thirty-two male rats were segmented into 4 groups: 1) control diet, 2) control diet with 10 % banana bract flour, 3) hypercaloric diet, and 4) hypercaloric diet with 10 % bract flour of banana. The study was conducted for 12 weeks and included analysis of phenolic compounds, assessment of the antioxidant effect of banana bract flour, determination of serum biochemical parameters (glucose, total cholesterol, triglycerides, AST, ALT, amylase albumin, uric acid, creatine, total protein, and oral glucose), determination of faecal fat content, and histomorphological analysis of the liver, pancreas, and adipose tissue. In addition, molecular parameters such as IL6, total and phosphorylated JNK, total and phosphorylated IKKβ, TNFα, TLR4, and HSP70 were determined. Results and conclusions: The banana bract flour showed a high content of phenolic compounds and an antioxidant effect. The in vivo results suggest that the supplementation of a hypercaloric diet with banana bract flour prevented pathological damage by reducing total cholesterol and glucose levels, which may imply a hepatoprotective effect of this supplement. Thus, using banana bract flour as a supplement can increase the consumption of fiber, antioxidants, and bioactive compounds. Novelty and scientific contribution: The development of flour from banana waste and its inclusion in the diet can prevent and/or help treat obesity. In addition, banana bracts can be used to protect the environment, as they are considered a source of waste by the food industry.