Thailand Doctors and Researchers Explore Sacha Inchi Oil and Its Effects on Gut Health
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Mar 07, 2025 1 day, 22 hours, 34 minutes ago
Thailand Doctors: Sacha inchi oil, derived from the seeds of the Plukenetia volubilis plant, has long been recognized for its rich content of polyunsaturated fatty acids, particularly omega-3 and omega-6. These essential fatty acids play a critical role in maintaining overall health, including cardiovascular support and cognitive function. However, the effects of Sacha inchi oil on gut health remain a subject of scientific inquiry.
Thailand Doctors and Researchers Explore Sacha Inchi Oil and Its Effects on Gut Health
A recent study conducted by
Thailand Doctors and researchers from the Food Bioactive Compounds Research Unit and the Faculty of Allied Health Sciences at Burapha University, Thailand, explored how Sacha inchi oil supplementation influences gut microbiota in comparison to lard oil, which is rich in saturated fats. The study aimed to determine whether Sacha inchi oil offers any protective benefits to gut health by analyzing microbiota diversity, metabolic function, and colon tissue changes in rats.
Study Overview and Methodology
The researchers divided male Sprague Dawley rats into three groups, each receiving different dietary supplementation for 12 weeks: one group was given Sacha inchi oil, another was administered lard oil, and a control group maintained a normal diet. The study employed advanced genetic sequencing techniques to examine gut microbiota composition, metabolic function, and histological changes in colon tissue.
This
Medical News report reveals that the research team conducted a detailed analysis using fecal DNA extraction to assess bacterial diversity and species abundance. Additionally, the researchers performed histological examinations of colon tissue to determine any significant structural changes associated with different oil supplements.
Key Findings on Gut Microbiota Diversity
The study found that lard oil supplementation resulted in a higher level of gut microbiota dysbiosis compared to Sacha inchi oil. Dysbiosis refers to an imbalance in the gut microbial population, which has been linked to digestive disorders, inflammation, and metabolic diseases. The rats fed lard oil showed notable increases in certain bacteria known to be associated with negative gut health outcomes.
On the other hand, rats receiving Sacha inchi oil exhibited a more balanced gut microbiota. The researchers observed a greater abundance of beneficial bacteria such as Aerococcaceae and Prevotellaceae, which are known for their roles in carbohydrate metabolism and improved gut function. This suggests that Sacha inchi oil may promote a healthier gut environment by modulating microbial composition in a beneficial way.
Functional Metabolism and Immune System Effects
In addition to analyzing microbiota diversity, the study also investigated how the different oils affected gut metabolism.
Using the Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) functional analysis, the researchers found that Sacha inchi oil supplementation was associated with an increase in carbohydrate metabolism. This could indicate a more efficient breakdown and absorption of dietary nutrients.
Furthermore, the study discovered that rats in the Sacha inchi oil group exhibited a decrease in immune system activity, which suggests a reduction in inflammation within the gut. In contrast, the lard oil group demonstrated increased replication and repair functions at the genetic level, a potential sign of stress response within the gut microbiota.
Colon Tissue Analysis and Structural Impact
One of the major concerns with dietary fat supplementation is its potential impact on gut structure and integrity. To address this, the research team examined colon tissue samples from all groups under a microscope. Interestingly, the study found no significant structural damage or crypt depth alterations in any of the groups, indicating that neither oil supplement caused direct harm to the intestinal lining. However, the differences in microbiota composition suggest that long-term consumption of lard oil could have negative implications for gut health.
Conclusions and Implications
The findings of this study highlight the potential benefits of Sacha inchi oil in maintaining gut health. The oil was shown to support a more balanced gut microbiota, enhance carbohydrate metabolism, and reduce immune system activity associated with inflammation. In contrast, lard oil supplementation led to gut microbiota imbalances, which could have negative long-term effects on metabolic health.
For individuals seeking to improve gut health through dietary changes, Sacha inchi oil presents itself as a promising alternative to saturated fats. Its ability to promote beneficial gut bacteria and enhance metabolic functions suggests that it may play a role in supporting overall digestive wellness.
The study findings were published in the peer-reviewed journal: PLOS ONE.
https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0319066
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