# Preliminary evaluation of an extract of Amaranthus caudatus as a novel nutraceutical: effects on cholesterol and glucose absorption

## TL;DR

This study explores a new nutraceutical from Amaranthus caudatus seeds that may help manage blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

## Contribution

The study introduces a novel nutraceutical from Amaranthus caudatus with potential benefits for glucose and cholesterol metabolism.

## Key findings

- The extract inhibited enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and reduced glucose and cholesterol absorption in a 3D intestinal model.
- Preliminary human data showed improvements in HbA1c, post-prandial glucose, BMI, and a trend toward lower total and LDL cholesterol.

## Abstract

The increasing prevalence of metabolic syndrome has prompted the development of nutraceuticals to support the management of glucose intolerance and dyslipidemia. Amaranthus caudatus is a potential source of bioactive compounds with metabolic relevance.

A novel ingredient derived from Amaranthus caudatus seeds was characterized by untargeted metabolomic analysis and bioinformatic processing. Its effects were evaluated through in vitro enzyme inhibition and intestinal absorption assays, as well as preliminary observations in subjects with glucose intolerance over 3 months.

The extract significantly inhibited key enzymes involved in carbohydrate metabolism and reduced glucose and cholesterol absorption in a three-dimensional intestinal model, while showing antioxidant activity. Preliminary human observations indicated improvements in HbA1c, post-prandial glucose, BMI, and a trend toward reduced total and LDL cholesterol.

These results suggest that Amaranthus caudatus seed extract may represent a promising nutraceutical for supporting glycemic control and lipid metabolism.

Diagram illustrating the effects of Amaranthus caudatus extract in four sections: Digestive Enzyme Inhibition, in vitro 3D model for cholesterol and glucose, in vitro pancreatic model for insulin, and an observational study tracking cholesterol, BMI, HbA1c, and glucose. Each section suggests the impact and analysis process of the extract.