Biological and technological evaluation of sidr (Ziziphus spina Christi L.) based high fat diet as antihyperlipidemic effects

Abstract

Sidr (Ziziphus spina-ChristiL) species are used in folk medicine. Nowadays, most people return to the use of natural plant medicines as a treatment for some diseases or for their protective effects. So, this study aimed to investigate the effect of Ziziphus spina-ChristiL (Sidr) on hyperlipidemic rats. Different Sidr plant parts were employed in this study (pulp, leaves, and seeds). Evaluations were done on the chemical compositions and flavonoid and phenol fractionation. Furthermore, lipid profiles and blood biological investigations were established. Moreover, several baked goods were made with Sidr pulp powder. Results showed that Sidr leaf powder had the highest contents of protein, fiber, and Fe (22.89 g/100, 14.29 g/100, and 39.73 mg/100 g, respectively). Sidr plant parts are rich in total phenol and total flavonoid contents. Catechin was the major compound in Sidr pulp (both powder and water extract). Also, rutin (a flavonoid compound) was the major compound in the water extract of Sidr pulp. The effect of rats fed a high-fat diet (HFD) and treated with Sidr pulp and water extracts of Sidr pulp, seeds and leaves on blood lipids was assessed. The rats in group 3, which were fed on HFD with 10% Sidr pulp powder, had an improved blood lipid profile compared with hyperlipidemic rats in other groups. Similar results were observed for kidney and liver functions, which were improved in hyperlipidemic rats fed on 10% Sidr pulp powder in their diet. On the other hand, due to the superior outcomes observed with the edible portion, specifically Sidr pulp, it was incorporated into the production of cakes and crackers. In terms of sensory qualities, the crackers Sidr formula scored higher than the cake Sidr formula. In conclusion, Sidr pulp powder increased the amount of total phenol, total flavonoid content, and DPPH-measured antioxidant activity in the cake and crackers.