Effects of Ecklonia arborea and Silvetia compressa intake in lipidemic metabolism, hepatic steatosis and dynamics of the intestinal microbiota using Wistar rats

Abstract

Up to now, it has been reported that Phaeophytes: Ecklonia arborea anda Silvetia compressa contain considerable amounts of fiber, and inhibitory capacity of a-amylase and a-glucosidase, sterols and fatty acids and antioxidants. Due to all these compounds and characteristics, these marine algae could be use to disminish lipids in blood as well as a to promote the intestinal microbiota growth. Therefore, the aim of this investigation is to evaluate the effect of 2.5% of E. arborea and S. compressa intake not only in serum lipids but also in histopathological parameters of livers in Wistar rats, under hyperlipidic diets. Moreovere, this research could also aim to study the prebiotic effect of these marine algae. Then, with all the information gathered, current research would afford to denote whether E. arborea and S. compressa could be used as a nutritional algal-based supplement to treat hypercholesterolemia without affecting physiologic activities in the organism.