Triterpenic Acids Present in Hawthorn Lower Plasma Cholesterol by Inhibiting Intestinal ACAT Activity in Hamsters
2011
Hawthorn Lowers Cholesterol in Hamsters
Sample size: 100
publication
10 minutes
Evidence: moderate
Author Information
Author(s): Lin Yuguang, Vermeer Mario A., Trautwein Elke A.
Primary Institution: Unilever Food and Health Research Institute
Hypothesis
Hawthorn extracts can lower plasma cholesterol by inhibiting intestinal ACAT activity.
Conclusion
Hawthorn and its bioactive compounds significantly lower plasma cholesterol levels in hamsters.
Supporting Evidence
- Hawthorn extracts significantly lowered plasma non-HDL cholesterol concentrations by up to 21%.
- The combination of hawthorn extract and plant sterol esters had an additive cholesterol-lowering effect.
- Both oleanolic acid and ursolic acid were identified as key compounds responsible for the cholesterol-lowering effect.
Takeaway
Hawthorn is a fruit that can help lower bad cholesterol in your body, making it healthier.
Methodology
The study involved in vitro tests on Caco-2 cells and an in vivo study on hamsters fed different diets for 4 weeks.
Limitations
The study was conducted only on hamsters, and results may not directly translate to humans.
Participant Demographics
Male Lakeview Golden Syrian hamsters, approximately 75g body weight.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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