The effect of date seed powder supplementation on glycemic markers and lipid profile in women with overweight and obesity: a randomized controlled trial

Abstract

Abstract Objective: The aim of this randomized controlled trial (RCT) was to investigate the effect of date kernel on glycemic control, lipid profile, and weight in women with overweight and obesity. Design: One hundred twenty-four women with overweight or obesity were randomly assigned to receive the date kernel supplement or placebo for 12 weeks. Serum HbA1c was measured by High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), and fasting plasma glucose and lipid profiles by enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) kits. The participants' dietary intake and physical activity were recorded at baseline. Results: A total of 98 subjects aged 40.7 years completed the trial (48 in the date kernel group, and 50 in the placebo group). From baseline to 12 weeks, date kernel supplementation resulted in a significant decrease in HbA1c [mean (SD): -0.45 (0.36)] and FPG compared to the placebo [-0.16 (0.27)] (p <0.001). No significant change was observed in the lipid profiles of the total participants. However, date kernel consumption decreased cholesterol and TG in hypercholesterolemic and hypotriglyceridemic participants compared to the placebo. Conclusion: Overall, 12 weeks of date kernel supplements in overweight or obese women resulted in an improvement in glycemic markers compared with the placebo. In terms of lipid profile, a significant reduction in total cholesterol and TG were observed only in hyperlipidemic subjects. Study was registered in IRCT.ir under IRCT20211217053429N1.