Structured nanoemulsion lipid as alternative to obesity control: An in vivo study

Abstract

Due to the global obesity epidemic, creating low-calorie foods for the industry is critical. Behenic acid, by partially inhibiting pancreatic lipase and decreasing fat absorption, is a promising option when included in structured lipids. This study evaluated the impact of chronic consumption and the anti-obesity potential of lipids structured with behenic acid in mice, comparing traditional and nanoemulsified forms. Diets with behenic acid promoted an excellent lipid metabolic impact, with good absorption of essential fatty acids in the liver and demonstrated excretion of this fatty acid in feces, suggesting its low absorption. The nanoemulsinated version stood out for presenting 50% less weight gain than diets with lard, improved insulin resistance, reduction in adipose tissue and absence of hepatic steatosis. The literature on the behavior of nanoemulsions in the digestive process is limited. Therefore, this study presents significant results for the development of low-calorie products.