Flavonoid‐Rich Peanut Shell ( <i>Arachis hypogaea</i> ) Extract as a Functional Food Targeting Pancreatic Lipase to Regulate Lipid Metabolism in Rats

Obesity is a growing health concern globally, and current pharmacological interventions often limits efficacy and undesirable side effects, necessitating the search for safer, functional food-based alternatives. This study aims to evaluate the anti-obesity potential of peanut shell extract (PSE), targeting pancreatic lipase enzyme (PLE), altering lipid metabolism. This study employed both in vitro and in vivo approaches. In vitro assays were conducted to assess the inhibitory activity of PSE and its isolated phytochemicals against PLE. In vivo studies involved an SF-induced model, which was administered PSE, and the parameters such as BW, FI, serum lipid profile (LDL, TC, TG), and fecal lipid content were measured to evaluate therapeutic effects. PSE and their isolated phytochemicals showed significant inhibition of PLE activity in vitro with an IC₅₀ value ranging from 65.841-251.31 ng/mL, when compared to orlistat (49.297 ng/mL). In vivo administration of PSE resulted in a significant reduction in the BW, and serum lipid levels, along with a significant increase in fecal lipid excretion compared to control group. PSE exhibits potent anti-obesity effects by inhibiting PLE and modulating lipid absorption and metabolism. These findings support its potential application as a functional food-based therapeutic agent for obesity management.