Evaluation of the functional potential of a microencapsulation of asai (Euterpe precatoria) and copoazu (Theobroma grandiflorum) in healthy volunteers

The global increase of morbidity from chronic non-communicable diseases attributable to diet has made consumers pay more attention to what they eat, with the intent to consume more fruits and vegetables with high phytochemical compound contents of high functional value. Asaí and copoazú are two Amazonian fruits that are considered “superfruits”, with a high content of phytochemicals with an antioxidant capacity, that, when combined in juices, provide a pleasant flavor. Microencapsulation is a suitable technique for the preservation of compounds of interest in powdered products. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the functional potential of an asaí and copoazú microencapsulation (MAC) supplied to healthy volunteers, besides the glycemic index of MAC was evaluated. Healthy volunteers were evaluated nutritionally with a food consumption survey and a 24-h reminder to establish their average diet and avoid interference with the supplied microencapsulation. Anthropometric measurements, weight and height, were taken. The biochemical parameters evaluated in each subject were: cholesterol, triglycerides, high density cholesterol (HDL-C), low density cholesterol (LDL-C), very low cholesterol (VDL-C), uric acid, creatinine, blood glucose, fasting insulin, insulinic sensitivity, estimated using the homeostasis model, HOMA-IR, and indicator of inflammation: IL-6. The evaluations were performed at baseline (before receiving the drink) and at endpoint (31 days). The results did not show significant variations (P=0.05) in the anthropometric measurements. The LDL-C and IL-6 showed significant differences from the beginning and the end of the assay. The drink presented a high IG of 78.6%, and should be administered with care to patients with high glycemia problems.