Efeitos da farinha de banana verde - Musa cavendish, na redução dos níveis séricos de Trimetilamina N-óxido (TMAO) em humanos

The trimethylamine N-oxide (TMAO) uremic toxin is produced after the fermentation of choline, L-carnitine, and phosphatidylcholine. The high amount of TMAO, in the bloodstream, seems to stimulate the atherosclerosis process, which compromises the cardiovascular system. In the present study, we assessed the TMAO-reducing effect of a new nutraceutical formulation, containing green banana flour, in humans. Methodology: We assessed the amount of serum TMAO via liquid chromatography (HPLC). As to nutritional diagnosis, patients presented with grade II obesity (BMI = 35 to 39.9 kg/m2) in all nutritional assessment intervals. Reduced food intake was correlated with greater satiety provided by the consumption of green banana flour. The average reduction was 722 kcal/day, a result that was considered significant (p=0.0284). As to the reduction in the TMAO levels of the obese patients assisted after the GBF use, there was a significant statistical difference at p<0.0004 when compared to the group that only used diet therapy. In conclusion, our data show that green banana flour can represent a new and useful source of food fiber capable of reducing cardiovascular risks. Without a doubt, more in vitro and in vivo studies should be performed to elucidate possible action mechanisms and corroborate these preliminary results.