Different parts of pequi (Caryocar brasiliense) alter physical and biochemical parameters differently in Wistar rats and their offspring

Abstract The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of consuming pequi pulp and nuts ( Caryocar brasiliense ) by rats during pregnancy and lactation on the physical and biochemical parameters of both the mothers and their adolescent offspring. Three groups were formed: Control group, treated with distilled water, and the Pequi Pulp and Pequi Nuts groups, both treated with 2000 mg/kg of their respective substrates. Body weight, body length, thoracic and abdominal circumference, Lee index, glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol levels were measured in both mothers and offspring. Body fat was removed and weighed, and the liver was analyzed to determine the fatty acid profile and malondialdehyde (MDA) levels. The results indicated a reduction in body weight, BMI, and Lee index in both mothers and offspring in the Pulp and Nuts groups. Blood glucose, triglycerides and body fat were lower in the mothers from the nuts group, while HDL and total cholesterol levels were higher compared to the other groups. The Pulp group showed increased body fat, blood glucose, triglycerides, total cholesterol, and HDL levels in the offspring, indicating an overall unfavorable metabolic profile despite the elevation in HDL. In the livers of the Nuts and Pulp groups, PUFA were elevated in the mothers but reduced in the offspring. MUFA showed increase in the offspring’s liver and decrease in the mothers. Furthermore, maternal and offspring malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were elevated in both the Nuts and Pulp groups. In conclusion, maternal consumption of pequi nuts improved physical and biochemical parameters in both mothers and offspring, while pequi pulp had increased blood glucose, triglycerides and body fat. This way, different parts of the pequi fruit have different impacts on the maternal organism and its profile when offered during pregnancy and lactation.