Abstract

Beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, protein, and bioactive compounds that improve metabolic health. However, the role of bean powder and whether it regulates glucose and lipid metabolism has not been well explored. Thus, the aim of the study was to explore the effect of bean (Lablab purpureus var. arshina) seed powder (BP) on dietary intake, glucose tolerance, body weight, and lipid metabolism using an animal model. In this study, Swiss Albino male mice were fed a normal diet (ND), ND supplemented with 20% and 40% bean powder, along with a positive control of 50% milk powder for four weeks. Food intake and body weight of the mice were monitored throughout the experimental period. Experimental mice supplemented with BP consumed less food compared to the ND group, while the milk powder group showed slightly increased food intake. Body weight gain was significantly attenuated in the 40% BP-supplemented group, and glucose tolerance improved, which indicated a decline in glucose level after glucose challenge as obtained from the glucose tolerance test. Furthermore, BP supplementation significantly decreased serum TAG, TC, and LDL levels. These metabolic alterations are associated with the high protein and dietary fiber content of bean seeds, which augment satiety, improve insulin responsiveness, and attenuate lipid absorption. Further, the bean seed powder supplementation improved body weight regulation, glucose tolerance, and lipid metabolism in normal diet-fed mice. These findings suggest bean seed powder as a promising plant-based functional dietary component for the prevention of metabolic disorders.

Key words: Arshina bean, Diabetes, Glucose tolerance, Legume, Lipid profile, Obesity