Synergistic hypolipidemic and hypoglycemic effects of mixtures of Lactobacillus nagelii/betanin in a mouse model

Purpose: To determine the nutraceutical effect of mixtures containing Lactobacillus nagelii/betanin on the carbohydrate and lipid metabolism of mice. Methods: Lactobacillus nagelii and betanin were isolated from the raw materials. These components were subsequently assessed for their anti-hyperglycemic and hypolipidemic activities, and administered individually or combined in normoglycemic and diabetic mice. These animals were subjected to a standard OGTT and given an atherogenic diet. Results: The combination of L. nagelii (2.0 × 10⁹ CFU/mL) and betanin (30 mg/kg body weight) exerted a significant (p < 0.01) and prolonged reduction of postprandial blood glucose (30 - 120 min). Interestingly, a mixture of L. nagelii (1 ×10⁷ CFU/mouse/day) with betanin (10 mg/kg body weight) administered for 30 days, produced favourable effects (p < 0.01) in the lipid profile of mice previously treated with an atherogenic diet. These mixtures significantly ameliorated (p < 0.01) hypoinsulinemia, hyperleptinemia and increased the levels of adiponectin. Conclusion: The simultaneous administration of L. nagelii and betanin in mice produced a beneficial change in blood glucose and lipids in mice, indicating a synergistic nutraceutical effect.