Chemical Composition and Antidiabetic Potential of a Phenolic-Rich Extract from Cashew Fiber

Cashew fiber is a byproduct used as an ingredient in food products; however, little is known about its functional properties. Therefore, we evaluated the chemical composition and antidiabetic potential of a phenolic-rich extract from the cashew fiber (PECF) using spectrometric techniques and experiments with C57BL/6 mice to assess its effect on glycemia and insulin resistance. In the glucose tolerance test, fasted animals received PECF (1-100 mg/kg i.p.) followed by a glucose load of 2 g/kg. Dexamethasone was used to induce insulin resistance, and the animals received PECF daily for 5 days. As a result, PECF (1 mg/kg) reduced blood glucose, triglycerides, and total cholesterol levels; meanwhile, HDL levels and insulin sensitivity were increased. Its mechanism of action seems to be related to alpha-glucosidase inhibitory and antioxidant activities of phenolic acids and flavonol glycosides by increasing glutathione and reducing TBARs. Thus, cashew fiber was shown to be a good source of hypoglycemic compounds for plant-based foods and nutraceuticals potentially useful for diabetes control.