Abstract:
Yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius, Asteraceae), a robust cultivar newly introduced to the Philippines, has been receiving increasing popularity due to its numerous health benefits. This study aimed to investigate the anti-atherosclerotic effect of the yacon tuber extract among hypercholesterolaemic male rats and to compare the results to Vitamin C, a known antioxidant. Forty male rats were subjected to a 63-day administration of the tuber extract via oral gavage in 1 mg/mL and 10 mg/mL dosages, which resulted in a decrease in seium cholesterol level (>20%), reduction in aortic wall thickness (>25%) and lesion formation (>97%). The anti- atherosclerotic effects of yacon are attributed to the high levels of antioxidants present in its tubers, in the form of polyphenols. The antioxidant properties of polyphenols neutralize the oxidation caused by free radicals. These findings support the use of yacon in the dietary prevention of atherosclerosis and other chronic diseases involving oxidative stress.
