Persimmon fruit tannin-rich fiber reduces cholesterol levels in humans

Ann Nutr Metab. 2013;62(1):1-6. doi: 10.1159/000343787. Epub 2012 Nov 17.

Abstract

Bile acid-binding agents are known to lower blood cholesterol levels and have been clinically used for the treatment of hypercholesterolemia. We previously showed that tannin-rich fiber from young persimmon (Diospyros kaki) fruits had bile acid-binding properties. In this study, we performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial to investigate the hypocholesterolemic effects of tannin-rich fiber in humans. The subjects (n = 40, plasma total cholesterol levels 180-259 mg/dl) were divided into 3 groups and ingested cookie bars containing 0 g (placebo group, n = 14), 3 g (low-dose group, n = 13), or 5 g (high-dose group, n = 13) of tannin-rich fiber 3 times daily before meals for 12 weeks. Plasma total cholesterol levels decreased significantly in the low-dose (12 weeks, p < 0.005) and high-dose (6 weeks, p < 0.05; 12 weeks, p < 0.001) groups. In addition, plasma low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels decreased significantly in the high-dose group (6 weeks, p < 0.05; 12 weeks, p < 0.001). These improvements were not accompanied by changes in plasma high-density lipoprotein cholesterol or plasma triglyceride levels. Our findings indicate that tannin-rich fiber from young persimmon fruits is a useful food material for treating hypercholesterolemia.

Publication types

  • Randomized Controlled Trial
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Bile Acids and Salts / analysis
  • Blood Glucose / analysis
  • Cholesterol, HDL
  • Cholesterol, LDL / blood*
  • Dietary Fiber / administration & dosage*
  • Diospyros / chemistry*
  • Double-Blind Method
  • Female
  • Fruit / chemistry
  • Humans
  • Hypercholesterolemia / blood
  • Hypercholesterolemia / drug therapy
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Plant Extracts / administration & dosage*
  • Tannins / administration & dosage*
  • Triglycerides / blood

Substances

  • Bile Acids and Salts
  • Blood Glucose
  • Cholesterol, HDL
  • Cholesterol, LDL
  • Dietary Fiber
  • Plant Extracts
  • Tannins
  • Triglycerides