Phytosterols have been shown to be effective in reducing serum cholesterol levels in numerous human clinical studies and regular consumption is recommended as part of therapeutic lifestyle changes aimed at reducing low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fat based spreads have been shown to be a very successful vehicle for delivery of plant sterols, readily accepted by consumers and efficacious in reducing cholesterol levels. Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread is a new product entering into the market place. It is derived from rice bran oil and contains high levels of unsaponifiable material rich in phytosterols, triterpene alcohols, ferulic acid esters ([gamma]-oryzanol) and vitamin E isomers. As such it may have the potential to lower serum cholesterol levels when consumed on a daily basis. In order to establish the effectiveness of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread compared with Flora pro-activ® margarine, a well established brand of plant sterol margarine already proven to lower cholesterol, a randomised double blind cross-over human clinical trial over 12 weeks was conducted. The study was divided into two treatment arms. The first arm of the study was to determine whether Alfa One™ RBO spread (containing 1.5% plant sterols) could lower total and LDL cholesterol levels to a greater extent than standard Flora margarine (containing no plant sterols) or Flora Pro-activ® margarine (containing 8% plant sterols). The second study arm tested the proposition that daily consumption of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread in conjunction with rice bran oil (containing 0.5% plant sterols) would lower total and LDL cholesterol to a greater extent than Alfa One™ RBO spread in isolation and more than Flora margarine in conjunction with sunflower oil. Eighty mildly hypercholesterolaemic individuals (total cholesterol [greater than or equal to] 5 mmol/L and [less than or equal to] 7.5 mmol/L) were recruited and randomised into two groups of forty. Participants were asked to continue with their normal dietary pattern but to replace any margarine/butter/fat consumption with the trial products. One group of 40 were then assigned to the first treatment arm of the study (margarine-only group) and were randomised to consume 20 g (4 teaspoons) Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine daily for 4 weeks, or 20 Flora pro-activ® daily for 4 weeks. Phytosterol levels delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma]-oryzanol; Flora proactiv® 1600 mg phytosterol; Flora margarine 0mg phytosterol. The second group of 40 were allocated to the second arm of the trial (margarine and oil group) and consumed 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread and 30 ml rice bran oil (RBO) daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine and 30 ml sunflower oil daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, changing treatment at the end of each 4-week period. Phytosterol amounts delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118 mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma] oryzanol; RBO 222mg mg phytosterol, 150 mg [gamma] oryzanol. Each participant consumed all three treatments in a random order over a 12 week period. At baseline and following each 4 week intervention period, measurements were made of weight and blood pressure. Venous blood samples were collected for analysis of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol: HDL-C, triglycerides and plasma phytosterols. Three-day diet records from each individual were also collected for analysis of normal dietary intake. Results showed that compared to a standard Flora margarine, Alfa One™ RBO spread significantly reduced total cholesterol by 2.2% (P=0.045), total cholesterol:HDL by 4.1% (P=0.005) and LDL-C by 3.5% (P=0.016), but was not as effective overall as Flora Pro-activ® which reduced total cholesterol by 4.4% (P=0.001), total cholesterol:HDL by 3.4% (P=0.014) and LDL-C by 5.6% (P=0.001). Consumption of Flora margarine alone produced no significant decrease from baseline figures in any of the cholesterol parameters measured. Surprisingly, in group two, the addition of rice bran oil to the Alfa One™ RBO spread produced no differences in cholesterol levels. The reason for this unexpected result is being explored further. These results confirm that Alfa One™ RBO spread is effective in lowering serum cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a normal diet. Studies have shown that a 1% reduction in LDL-C can equate to a 2% decrease in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk thus suggesting that the 3.5% reduction demonstrated by Alfa One™ RBO spread in this study could be effective in reducing CHD risk as much as 6% in a mildly hypercholesterolaemic population.

Phytosterols have been shown to be effective in reducing serum cholesterol levels in numerous human clinical studies and regular consumption is recommended as part of therapeutic lifestyle changes aimed at reducing low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fat based spreads have been shown to be a very successful vehicle for delivery of plant sterols, readily accepted by consumers and efficacious in reducing cholesterol levels. Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread is a new product entering into the market place. It is derived from rice bran oil and contains high levels of unsaponifiable material rich in phytosterols, triterpene alcohols, ferulic acid esters ([gamma]-oryzanol) and vitamin E isomers. As such it may have the potential to lower serum cholesterol levels when consumed on a daily basis. In order to establish the effectiveness of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread compared with Flora pro-activ® margarine, a well established brand of plant sterol margarine already proven to lower cholesterol, a randomised double blind cross-over human clinical trial over 12 weeks was conducted. The study was divided into two treatment arms. The first arm of the study was to determine whether Alfa One™ RBO spread (containing 1.5% plant sterols) could lower total and LDL cholesterol levels to a greater extent than standard Flora margarine (containing no plant sterols) or Flora Pro-activ® margarine (containing 8% plant sterols). The second study arm tested the proposition that daily consumption of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread in conjunction with rice bran oil (containing 0.5% plant sterols) would lower total and LDL cholesterol to a greater extent than Alfa One™ RBO spread in isolation and more than Flora margarine in conjunction with sunflower oil. Eighty mildly hypercholesterolaemic individuals (total cholesterol [greater than or equal to] 5 mmol/L and [less than or equal to] 7.5 mmol/L) were recruited and randomised into two groups of forty. Participants were asked to continue with their normal dietary pattern but to replace any margarine/butter/fat consumption with the trial products. One group of 40 were then assigned to the first treatment arm of the study (margarine-only group) and were randomised to consume 20 g (4 teaspoons) Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine daily for 4 weeks, or 20 Flora pro-activ® daily for 4 weeks. Phytosterol levels delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma]-oryzanol; Flora proactiv® 1600 mg phytosterol; Flora margarine 0mg phytosterol. The second group of 40 were allocated to the second arm of the trial (margarine and oil group) and consumed 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread and 30 ml rice bran oil (RBO) daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine and 30 ml sunflower oil daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, changing treatment at the end of each 4-week period. Phytosterol amounts delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118 mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma] oryzanol; RBO 222mg mg phytosterol, 150 mg [gamma] oryzanol. Each participant consumed all three treatments in a random order over a 12 week period. At baseline and following each 4 week intervention period, measurements were made of weight and blood pressure. Venous blood samples were collected for analysis of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol: HDL-C, triglycerides and plasma phytosterols. Three-day diet records from each individual were also collected for analysis of normal dietary intake. Results showed that compared to a standard Flora margarine, Alfa One™ RBO spread significantly reduced total cholesterol by 2.2% (P=0.045), total cholesterol:HDL by 4.1% (P=0.005) and LDL-C by 3.5% (P=0.016), but was not as effective overall as Flora Pro-activ® which reduced total cholesterol by 4.4% (P=0.001), total cholesterol:HDL by 3.4% (P=0.014) and LDL-C by 5.6% (P=0.001). Consumption of Flora margarine alone produced no significant decrease from baseline figures in any of the cholesterol parameters measured. Surprisingly, in group two, the addition of rice bran oil to the Alfa One™ RBO spread produced no differences in cholesterol levels. The reason for this unexpected result is being explored further. These results confirm that Alfa One™ RBO spread is effective in lowering serum cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a normal diet. Studies have shown that a 1% reduction in LDL-C can equate to a 2% decrease in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk thus suggesting that the 3.5% reduction demonstrated by Alfa One™ RBO spread in this study could be effective in reducing CHD risk as much as 6% in a mildly hypercholesterolaemic population.

Phytosterols have been shown to be effective in reducing serum cholesterol levels in numerous human clinical studies and regular consumption is recommended as part of therapeutic lifestyle changes aimed at reducing low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fat based spreads have been shown to be a very successful vehicle for delivery of plant sterols, readily accepted by consumers and efficacious in reducing cholesterol levels. Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread is a new product entering into the market place. It is derived from rice bran oil and contains high levels of unsaponifiable material rich in phytosterols, triterpene alcohols, ferulic acid esters ([gamma]-oryzanol) and vitamin E isomers. As such it may have the potential to lower serum cholesterol levels when consumed on a daily basis. In order to establish the effectiveness of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread compared with Flora pro-activ® margarine, a well established brand of plant sterol margarine already proven to lower cholesterol, a randomised double blind cross-over human clinical trial over 12 weeks was conducted. The study was divided into two treatment arms. The first arm of the study was to determine whether Alfa One™ RBO spread (containing 1.5% plant sterols) could lower total and LDL cholesterol levels to a greater extent than standard Flora margarine (containing no plant sterols) or Flora Pro-activ® margarine (containing 8% plant sterols). The second study arm tested the proposition that daily consumption of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread in conjunction with rice bran oil (containing 0.5% plant sterols) would lower total and LDL cholesterol to a greater extent than Alfa One™ RBO spread in isolation and more than Flora margarine in conjunction with sunflower oil. Eighty mildly hypercholesterolaemic individuals (total cholesterol [greater than or equal to] 5 mmol/L and [less than or equal to] 7.5 mmol/L) were recruited and randomised into two groups of forty. Participants were asked to continue with their normal dietary pattern but to replace any margarine/butter/fat consumption with the trial products. One group of 40 were then assigned to the first treatment arm of the study (margarine-only group) and were randomised to consume 20 g (4 teaspoons) Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine daily for 4 weeks, or 20 Flora pro-activ® daily for 4 weeks. Phytosterol levels delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma]-oryzanol; Flora proactiv® 1600 mg phytosterol; Flora margarine 0mg phytosterol. The second group of 40 were allocated to the second arm of the trial (margarine and oil group) and consumed 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread and 30 ml rice bran oil (RBO) daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine and 30 ml sunflower oil daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, changing treatment at the end of each 4-week period. Phytosterol amounts delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118 mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma] oryzanol; RBO 222mg mg phytosterol, 150 mg [gamma] oryzanol. Each participant consumed all three treatments in a random order over a 12 week period. At baseline and following each 4 week intervention period, measurements were made of weight and blood pressure. Venous blood samples were collected for analysis of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol: HDL-C, triglycerides and plasma phytosterols. Three-day diet records from each individual were also collected for analysis of normal dietary intake. Results showed that compared to a standard Flora margarine, Alfa One™ RBO spread significantly reduced total cholesterol by 2.2% (P=0.045), total cholesterol:HDL by 4.1% (P=0.005) and LDL-C by 3.5% (P=0.016), but was not as effective overall as Flora Pro-activ® which reduced total cholesterol by 4.4% (P=0.001), total cholesterol:HDL by 3.4% (P=0.014) and LDL-C by 5.6% (P=0.001). Consumption of Flora margarine alone produced no significant decrease from baseline figures in any of the cholesterol parameters measured. Surprisingly, in group two, the addition of rice bran oil to the Alfa One™ RBO spread produced no differences in cholesterol levels. The reason for this unexpected result is being explored further. These results confirm that Alfa One™ RBO spread is effective in lowering serum cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a normal diet. Studies have shown that a 1% reduction in LDL-C can equate to a 2% decrease in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk thus suggesting that the 3.5% reduction demonstrated by Alfa One™ RBO spread in this study could be effective in reducing CHD risk as much as 6% in a mildly hypercholesterolaemic population.

Phytosterols have been shown to be effective in reducing serum cholesterol levels in numerous human clinical studies and regular consumption is recommended as part of therapeutic lifestyle changes aimed at reducing low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fat based spreads have been shown to be a very successful vehicle for delivery of plant sterols, readily accepted by consumers and efficacious in reducing cholesterol levels. Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread is a new product entering into the market place. It is derived from rice bran oil and contains high levels of unsaponifiable material rich in phytosterols, triterpene alcohols, ferulic acid esters ([gamma]-oryzanol) and vitamin E isomers. As such it may have the potential to lower serum cholesterol levels when consumed on a daily basis. In order to establish the effectiveness of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread compared with Flora pro-activ® margarine, a well established brand of plant sterol margarine already proven to lower cholesterol, a randomised double blind cross-over human clinical trial over 12 weeks was conducted. The study was divided into two treatment arms. The first arm of the study was to determine whether Alfa One™ RBO spread (containing 1.5% plant sterols) could lower total and LDL cholesterol levels to a greater extent than standard Flora margarine (containing no plant sterols) or Flora Pro-activ® margarine (containing 8% plant sterols). The second study arm tested the proposition that daily consumption of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread in conjunction with rice bran oil (containing 0.5% plant sterols) would lower total and LDL cholesterol to a greater extent than Alfa One™ RBO spread in isolation and more than Flora margarine in conjunction with sunflower oil. Eighty mildly hypercholesterolaemic individuals (total cholesterol [greater than or equal to] 5 mmol/L and [less than or equal to] 7.5 mmol/L) were recruited and randomised into two groups of forty. Participants were asked to continue with their normal dietary pattern but to replace any margarine/butter/fat consumption with the trial products. One group of 40 were then assigned to the first treatment arm of the study (margarine-only group) and were randomised to consume 20 g (4 teaspoons) Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine daily for 4 weeks, or 20 Flora pro-activ® daily for 4 weeks. Phytosterol levels delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma]-oryzanol; Flora proactiv® 1600 mg phytosterol; Flora margarine 0mg phytosterol. The second group of 40 were allocated to the second arm of the trial (margarine and oil group) and consumed 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread and 30 ml rice bran oil (RBO) daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine and 30 ml sunflower oil daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, changing treatment at the end of each 4-week period. Phytosterol amounts delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118 mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma] oryzanol; RBO 222mg mg phytosterol, 150 mg [gamma] oryzanol. Each participant consumed all three treatments in a random order over a 12 week period. At baseline and following each 4 week intervention period, measurements were made of weight and blood pressure. Venous blood samples were collected for analysis of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol: HDL-C, triglycerides and plasma phytosterols. Three-day diet records from each individual were also collected for analysis of normal dietary intake. Results showed that compared to a standard Flora margarine, Alfa One™ RBO spread significantly reduced total cholesterol by 2.2% (P=0.045), total cholesterol:HDL by 4.1% (P=0.005) and LDL-C by 3.5% (P=0.016), but was not as effective overall as Flora Pro-activ® which reduced total cholesterol by 4.4% (P=0.001), total cholesterol:HDL by 3.4% (P=0.014) and LDL-C by 5.6% (P=0.001). Consumption of Flora margarine alone produced no significant decrease from baseline figures in any of the cholesterol parameters measured. Surprisingly, in group two, the addition of rice bran oil to the Alfa One™ RBO spread produced no differences in cholesterol levels. The reason for this unexpected result is being explored further. These results confirm that Alfa One™ RBO spread is effective in lowering serum cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a normal diet. Studies have shown that a 1% reduction in LDL-C can equate to a 2% decrease in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk thus suggesting that the 3.5% reduction demonstrated by Alfa One™ RBO spread in this study could be effective in reducing CHD risk as much as 6% in a mildly hypercholesterolaemic population.

Phytosterols have been shown to be effective in reducing serum cholesterol levels in numerous human clinical studies and regular consumption is recommended as part of therapeutic lifestyle changes aimed at reducing low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fat based spreads have been shown to be a very successful vehicle for delivery of plant sterols, readily accepted by consumers and efficacious in reducing cholesterol levels. Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread is a new product entering into the market place. It is derived from rice bran oil and contains high levels of unsaponifiable material rich in phytosterols, triterpene alcohols, ferulic acid esters ([gamma]-oryzanol) and vitamin E isomers. As such it may have the potential to lower serum cholesterol levels when consumed on a daily basis. In order to establish the effectiveness of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread compared with Flora pro-activ® margarine, a well established brand of plant sterol margarine already proven to lower cholesterol, a randomised double blind cross-over human clinical trial over 12 weeks was conducted. The study was divided into two treatment arms. The first arm of the study was to determine whether Alfa One™ RBO spread (containing 1.5% plant sterols) could lower total and LDL cholesterol levels to a greater extent than standard Flora margarine (containing no plant sterols) or Flora Pro-activ® margarine (containing 8% plant sterols). The second study arm tested the proposition that daily consumption of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread in conjunction with rice bran oil (containing 0.5% plant sterols) would lower total and LDL cholesterol to a greater extent than Alfa One™ RBO spread in isolation and more than Flora margarine in conjunction with sunflower oil. Eighty mildly hypercholesterolaemic individuals (total cholesterol [greater than or equal to] 5 mmol/L and [less than or equal to] 7.5 mmol/L) were recruited and randomised into two groups of forty. Participants were asked to continue with their normal dietary pattern but to replace any margarine/butter/fat consumption with the trial products. One group of 40 were then assigned to the first treatment arm of the study (margarine-only group) and were randomised to consume 20 g (4 teaspoons) Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine daily for 4 weeks, or 20 Flora pro-activ® daily for 4 weeks. Phytosterol levels delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma]-oryzanol; Flora proactiv® 1600 mg phytosterol; Flora margarine 0mg phytosterol. The second group of 40 were allocated to the second arm of the trial (margarine and oil group) and consumed 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread and 30 ml rice bran oil (RBO) daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine and 30 ml sunflower oil daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, changing treatment at the end of each 4-week period. Phytosterol amounts delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118 mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma] oryzanol; RBO 222mg mg phytosterol, 150 mg [gamma] oryzanol. Each participant consumed all three treatments in a random order over a 12 week period. At baseline and following each 4 week intervention period, measurements were made of weight and blood pressure. Venous blood samples were collected for analysis of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol: HDL-C, triglycerides and plasma phytosterols. Three-day diet records from each individual were also collected for analysis of normal dietary intake. Results showed that compared to a standard Flora margarine, Alfa One™ RBO spread significantly reduced total cholesterol by 2.2% (P=0.045), total cholesterol:HDL by 4.1% (P=0.005) and LDL-C by 3.5% (P=0.016), but was not as effective overall as Flora Pro-activ® which reduced total cholesterol by 4.4% (P=0.001), total cholesterol:HDL by 3.4% (P=0.014) and LDL-C by 5.6% (P=0.001). Consumption of Flora margarine alone produced no significant decrease from baseline figures in any of the cholesterol parameters measured. Surprisingly, in group two, the addition of rice bran oil to the Alfa One™ RBO spread produced no differences in cholesterol levels. The reason for this unexpected result is being explored further. These results confirm that Alfa One™ RBO spread is effective in lowering serum cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a normal diet. Studies have shown that a 1% reduction in LDL-C can equate to a 2% decrease in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk thus suggesting that the 3.5% reduction demonstrated by Alfa One™ RBO spread in this study could be effective in reducing CHD risk as much as 6% in a mildly hypercholesterolaemic population.

Phytosterols have been shown to be effective in reducing serum cholesterol levels in numerous human clinical studies and regular consumption is recommended as part of therapeutic lifestyle changes aimed at reducing low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fat based spreads have been shown to be a very successful vehicle for delivery of plant sterols, readily accepted by consumers and efficacious in reducing cholesterol levels. Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread is a new product entering into the market place. It is derived from rice bran oil and contains high levels of unsaponifiable material rich in phytosterols, triterpene alcohols, ferulic acid esters ([gamma]-oryzanol) and vitamin E isomers. As such it may have the potential to lower serum cholesterol levels when consumed on a daily basis. In order to establish the effectiveness of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread compared with Flora pro-activ® margarine, a well established brand of plant sterol margarine already proven to lower cholesterol, a randomised double blind cross-over human clinical trial over 12 weeks was conducted. The study was divided into two treatment arms. The first arm of the study was to determine whether Alfa One™ RBO spread (containing 1.5% plant sterols) could lower total and LDL cholesterol levels to a greater extent than standard Flora margarine (containing no plant sterols) or Flora Pro-activ® margarine (containing 8% plant sterols). The second study arm tested the proposition that daily consumption of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread in conjunction with rice bran oil (containing 0.5% plant sterols) would lower total and LDL cholesterol to a greater extent than Alfa One™ RBO spread in isolation and more than Flora margarine in conjunction with sunflower oil. Eighty mildly hypercholesterolaemic individuals (total cholesterol [greater than or equal to] 5 mmol/L and [less than or equal to] 7.5 mmol/L) were recruited and randomised into two groups of forty. Participants were asked to continue with their normal dietary pattern but to replace any margarine/butter/fat consumption with the trial products. One group of 40 were then assigned to the first treatment arm of the study (margarine-only group) and were randomised to consume 20 g (4 teaspoons) Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine daily for 4 weeks, or 20 Flora pro-activ® daily for 4 weeks. Phytosterol levels delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma]-oryzanol; Flora proactiv® 1600 mg phytosterol; Flora margarine 0mg phytosterol. The second group of 40 were allocated to the second arm of the trial (margarine and oil group) and consumed 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread and 30 ml rice bran oil (RBO) daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine and 30 ml sunflower oil daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, changing treatment at the end of each 4-week period. Phytosterol amounts delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118 mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma] oryzanol; RBO 222mg mg phytosterol, 150 mg [gamma] oryzanol. Each participant consumed all three treatments in a random order over a 12 week period. At baseline and following each 4 week intervention period, measurements were made of weight and blood pressure. Venous blood samples were collected for analysis of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol: HDL-C, triglycerides and plasma phytosterols. Three-day diet records from each individual were also collected for analysis of normal dietary intake. Results showed that compared to a standard Flora margarine, Alfa One™ RBO spread significantly reduced total cholesterol by 2.2% (P=0.045), total cholesterol:HDL by 4.1% (P=0.005) and LDL-C by 3.5% (P=0.016), but was not as effective overall as Flora Pro-activ® which reduced total cholesterol by 4.4% (P=0.001), total cholesterol:HDL by 3.4% (P=0.014) and LDL-C by 5.6% (P=0.001). Consumption of Flora margarine alone produced no significant decrease from baseline figures in any of the cholesterol parameters measured. Surprisingly, in group two, the addition of rice bran oil to the Alfa One™ RBO spread produced no differences in cholesterol levels. The reason for this unexpected result is being explored further. These results confirm that Alfa One™ RBO spread is effective in lowering serum cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a normal diet. Studies have shown that a 1% reduction in LDL-C can equate to a 2% decrease in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk thus suggesting that the 3.5% reduction demonstrated by Alfa One™ RBO spread in this study could be effective in reducing CHD risk as much as 6% in a mildly hypercholesterolaemic population.

Phytosterols have been shown to be effective in reducing serum cholesterol levels in numerous human clinical studies and regular consumption is recommended as part of therapeutic lifestyle changes aimed at reducing low density lipoprotein (LDL-C) in the treatment of hyperlipidaemia, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Fat based spreads have been shown to be a very successful vehicle for delivery of plant sterols, readily accepted by consumers and efficacious in reducing cholesterol levels. Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread is a new product entering into the market place. It is derived from rice bran oil and contains high levels of unsaponifiable material rich in phytosterols, triterpene alcohols, ferulic acid esters ([gamma]-oryzanol) and vitamin E isomers. As such it may have the potential to lower serum cholesterol levels when consumed on a daily basis. In order to establish the effectiveness of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread compared with Flora pro-activ® margarine, a well established brand of plant sterol margarine already proven to lower cholesterol, a randomised double blind cross-over human clinical trial over 12 weeks was conducted. The study was divided into two treatment arms. The first arm of the study was to determine whether Alfa One™ RBO spread (containing 1.5% plant sterols) could lower total and LDL cholesterol levels to a greater extent than standard Flora margarine (containing no plant sterols) or Flora Pro-activ® margarine (containing 8% plant sterols). The second study arm tested the proposition that daily consumption of Alfa One™ Rice Bran Oil (RBO) spread in conjunction with rice bran oil (containing 0.5% plant sterols) would lower total and LDL cholesterol to a greater extent than Alfa One™ RBO spread in isolation and more than Flora margarine in conjunction with sunflower oil. Eighty mildly hypercholesterolaemic individuals (total cholesterol [greater than or equal to] 5 mmol/L and [less than or equal to] 7.5 mmol/L) were recruited and randomised into two groups of forty. Participants were asked to continue with their normal dietary pattern but to replace any margarine/butter/fat consumption with the trial products. One group of 40 were then assigned to the first treatment arm of the study (margarine-only group) and were randomised to consume 20 g (4 teaspoons) Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine daily for 4 weeks, or 20 Flora pro-activ® daily for 4 weeks. Phytosterol levels delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma]-oryzanol; Flora proactiv® 1600 mg phytosterol; Flora margarine 0mg phytosterol. The second group of 40 were allocated to the second arm of the trial (margarine and oil group) and consumed 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread and 30 ml rice bran oil (RBO) daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Flora margarine and 30 ml sunflower oil daily for 4 weeks, or 20 g Alfa One™ RBO spread daily for 4 weeks, changing treatment at the end of each 4-week period. Phytosterol amounts delivered in these amounts were: RBO margarine: 118 mg phytosterol and 14 mg [gamma] oryzanol; RBO 222mg mg phytosterol, 150 mg [gamma] oryzanol. Each participant consumed all three treatments in a random order over a 12 week period. At baseline and following each 4 week intervention period, measurements were made of weight and blood pressure. Venous blood samples were collected for analysis of total cholesterol, low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), total cholesterol: HDL-C, triglycerides and plasma phytosterols. Three-day diet records from each individual were also collected for analysis of normal dietary intake. Results showed that compared to a standard Flora margarine, Alfa One™ RBO spread significantly reduced total cholesterol by 2.2% (P=0.045), total cholesterol:HDL by 4.1% (P=0.005) and LDL-C by 3.5% (P=0.016), but was not as effective overall as Flora Pro-activ® which reduced total cholesterol by 4.4% (P=0.001), total cholesterol:HDL by 3.4% (P=0.014) and LDL-C by 5.6% (P=0.001). Consumption of Flora margarine alone produced no significant decrease from baseline figures in any of the cholesterol parameters measured. Surprisingly, in group two, the addition of rice bran oil to the Alfa One™ RBO spread produced no differences in cholesterol levels. The reason for this unexpected result is being explored further. These results confirm that Alfa One™ RBO spread is effective in lowering serum cholesterol levels when consumed as part of a normal diet. Studies have shown that a 1% reduction in LDL-C can equate to a 2% decrease in coronary heart disease (CHD) risk thus suggesting that the 3.5% reduction demonstrated by Alfa One™ RBO spread in this study could be effective in reducing CHD risk as much as 6% in a mildly hypercholesterolaemic population.

Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico / The gibberellic acid (GA3) is a natural hormone found in some plants, this hormone has been used in agricultural formulations, as growth regulator, highly relevance both economic and industrial. Currently, its industrial scale production is achieved by Submerged Fermentation (SF) using the fungus Gibberella fujikuroi. The main problem in the industrial process is related to the low yield of GA3, causing the purification process presents high costs. An alternative to this process is the Solid- State Fermentation (SSF) that allows to obtain higher concentrations of this product. The greatest advantage of the SSF front SF is related to increased production of GA3 using low cost substrates such as waste and by-products of agroindustry. Given the fact that Brazil is highlighted as one of the most prosperous countries in terms of agricultural production, and the Rio Grande do Sul accounts for about 30-40% of rice and barley production in the country, this research evaluated the use of Raw Rice Bran (RRB) and Wet Brewery Waste (WBW), rice processing and brewing industry residues, as substrates for GA3 production by the fungus Gibberella fujikuroi. Two experimental designs, a linear type 2n and CCRD, both for two variables were performed. The first design evaluated, on three levels, evaluated the effect of moisture content in the range of 50 to 70%, and the composition of the medium, with RRB content ranging from 30 to 70% of the total substrate mass (RRB and WBW mass). In turn, the second planning in 5 levels, evaluated the effect of the addition of glucose, the carbon source over the range 0 to 80 g/L, and ammonium nitrate (NH4NO3), the nitrogen source, in the range 0 - 5 g/L, by making use of the best conditions of the first planning. It was found that, for seven days of fermentation, the greater yield for the first research proposed, was at the test carried out with medium composition of 30% RRB and 70% WBW and moisture content equals 70%. At the second design It was observed that the highest concentration of NH4NO3 favored the formation of GA3 by the fungus, towards intermediate value to the glucose content. Finally, investigation of the kinetic behavior showed an increase in production of GA3, with the peak on the seventh day with maximal production of 10,10 g/kg of substrate, and subsequent tendency for stabilization. / O ácido giberélico (GA3) é um hormônio natural presente em algumas plantas, sendo empregado em formulações agrícolas como regulador de crescimento, apresentando grande importância econômica e industrial. Atualmente, sua produção em escala industrial é realizada por fermentação submersa (FSub) empregando o fungo Gibberella fujikuroi. O maior problema no processo submerso está relacionado aos baixos rendimentos de GA3, fazendo com que o processo de purificação apresente elevados custos. Uma alternativa a este processo é a fermentação em estado sólido (FES) que permite a obtenção deste produto em concentrações maiores. A maior vantagem da FES frente à FSub está relacionada à maior produção de GA3 empregando substratos de baixo custo, como por exemplo, resíduos e subprodutos da agroindústria. Dado o fato de que o Brasil é destacado como um dos mais prósperos países em termos da produção agrícola, e que o Rio Grande do Sul é responsável por cerca de 30 a 40% da produção de arroz e cevada, no país, avaliou-se a utilização de Farelo de Arroz Bruto (FAB) e Resíduo de Cervejaria Úmido (RCU), resíduos do processamento de arroz e da indústria cervejeira, como substratos para a produção de GA3 pelo fungo Gibberella fujikuroi. Foram realizados dois planejamentos experimentais, linear do tipo 2n e DCCR, ambos para duas variáveis. O primeiro planejamento, em três níveis, avaliou o efeito da umidade, na faixa de 50 a 70%, e a composição do meio, com o teor de FAB variando entre 30 e 70% do total de massa do substrato (massa de FAB e de RCU). Por sua vez, o segundo planejamento, em 5 níveis, avaliou o efeito da adição de glicose, fonte de carbono na faixa de 0 a 80 g/L, e do Nitrato de Amônio (NH4NO3), fonte de nitrogênio, na faixa entre 0 a 5 g/L, na produtividade de GA3, fazendo uso das melhores condições do primeiro planejamento. Foi verificado que, para sete dias de fermentação, o maior rendimento obtido, para a primeira investigação proposta, foi no ensaio realizado com composição do meio 30% FAB e 70% RCU e umidade do meio de 70%. No segundo planejamento constatou-se que a maior concentração de NH4NO3 favoreceu a formação de GA3 pelo fungo, para um valor intermediário do teor de glicose. Por fim, a investigação da cinética demonstrou um comportamento de crescimento na produção de GA3, com o pico no sétimo dia, com produção máxima de 10,10 g/Kg de substrato, e posterior tendência à estabilização.

Dietary fibers can interfere in the bioavailability of mineral elements both negatively and positively. This has been the subject of several researches because there is a great interest in essential minerals; also, some studies have been done regarding toxic elements such as cadmium (Cd). Environmental contamination with Cd and its consequent interference in the food chain can cause serious problems in humans and animals affecting several organs in general, and this can become even worse when exposure takes place during growth. Fiber-rich supplements are employed by people that have low levels of fiber in the diet. On the other hand, multimixtures (MMs) are low-cost food supplements with different compositions that are used to improve the nutritional conditions of children. These supplements are normally rich in fibers and mineral elements. The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of MMs and other food products rich in dietary fibers on the absorption of mineral elements and on Cd absorption, accumulation, and toxicity in growing rats. Three independent experiments were conducted. In the first experiment, MMs, used as supplements at a 5% proportion in diets, increased apparent absolute absorption of phosphorus, magnesium and manganese, proportionally to its level of dietary fiber, but did not interfere in calcium or copper absorption. This suggests that these supplements can be a source of some minerals in the diet, and similar proportions to those employed in this study did not diminish calcium and copper absorption. In the second experiment, one MM, rich in fibers and essential minerals did not diminish either Cd accumulation or toxicity when this metal was employed at 25 mg/kg in the diet, but MM diminished Cd accumulation in the kidneys when it was employed at 5 mg/kg in the diet. This latter Cd level is similar to human exposure in some contaminated areas, which suggests that MM may contribute to diminish Cd toxicity in polluted areas. In the third experiment, when flaxseed and bran wheat were compared to purified cellulose, it was observed that flaxseed, which has a higher proportion of soluble fiber, increased Cd accumulation in the liver and kidneys of growing rats in comparison to the other two fiber sources, which have basically insoluble fiber. These results indicate that foods with a higher proportion of soluble fiber can increase Cd body retention, suggesting that one should be careful when ingesting these foods in Cd contaminated areas. Flaxseed and bran wheat, used as sources of dietary fiber for rats exposed do Cd, decreased apparent absorption of Ca and P and increased apparent absorption of Mg in comparison to purified cellulose, which might be attributed to an interaction of Cd and phytate present in these fiber sources. Results of the present study show that MMs can be source of some essential mineral, besides reducing renal Cd accumulation, after exposure to low Cd doses. It was also observed that different sources of fiber may differentially affect the retention of toxic metals like Cd, and one should be careful when using foodstuffs rich in soluble fiber, like flaxseed, which can increase Cd retention. / As fibras alimentares (FA) podem interferir na biodisponibilidade de elementos minerais tanto negativa quanto positivamente. Este tem sido um assunto de diversas pesquisas e grande interesse em relação aos minerais essenciais e alguns estudos também têm sido feitos em relação aos elementos tóxicos como o cádmio (Cd). A contaminação ambiental com Cd e sua conseqüente entrada na cadeia alimentar pode levar a graves problemas no homem e nos animais em geral, afetando vários órgãos, o que pode ser mais grave quando a exposição se dá durante a fase de crescimento. Suplementos ricos em fibra são utilizados por parte da população em face da falta deste constituinte em suas dietas. Por outro lado, as multimisturas (MMs) são suplementos alimentares de composição variável e baixo custo, utilizados para melhorar o estado nutricional de crianças, sendo que estes suplementos são normalmente ricos em fibra e também em elementos minerais. O objetivo deste trabalho foi avaliar o efeito de MMs e outros produtos alimentícios ricos em FA sobre a absorção de elementos minerais e sobre a absorção, acumulação e toxicidade do Cd, em ratos em crescimento. Foram conduzidos três experimentos independentes. No primeiro experimento as multimisturas, usadas como suplementos na proporção de 5% da dieta, aumentaram a absorção absoluta aparente de fósforo, magnésio e manganês, proporcionalmente ao seu teor de fibra alimentar, não chegando a interferir na absorção de cálcio e cobre, o que sugere que estes suplementos podem ser fonte de alguns minerais na dieta e, em proporções semelhantes àquela utilizada neste estudo, não reduziriam a absorção de cálcio ou cobre. Num segundo estudo, uma MM, rica em fibra e em minerais essenciais, não reduziu a acumulação nem a toxicidade do Cd quando este foi utilizado na dose de 25 mg/kg de dieta, mas reduziu a acumulação renal do metal quando este foi utilizado na dose de 5 mg/kg de dieta, a qual é compatível com a exposição humana em algumas áreas contaminadas, sugerindo que a multimistura poderia contribuir para reduzir a toxicidade do Cd em zonas de contaminação ainda inevitável. No terceiro experimento, em que se comparou a linhaça e o farelo de trigo com a celulose purificada, observou-se que a linhaça, que contêm maior proporção de fibra solúvel, aumentou a quantidade de Cd retido no fígado e rins dos ratos em crescimento em comparação com as outras duas fontes, que contêm predominantemente fibra insolúvel. Estes resultados indicam que alimentos com maior proporção de fibra solúvel podem aumentar a deposição corporal de Cd, sugerindo que deve haver cuidado na ingestão dos mesmos em regiões contaminadas com Cd. A linhaça e o farelo de trigo, usados como fonte de fibra alimentar para os ratos expostos ao Cd, reduziram a absorção aparente do cálcio e do fósforo e aumentaram a absorção aparente de magnésio em comparação com a celulose, o que poderia ser atribuído a uma interação do Cd com o fitato presente naquelas fontes de fibra. Os resultados deste trabalho mostram que as MMs podem ser fonte de alguns minerais essenciais, além de reduzir a acumulação renal de cádmio, após exposição a baixas doses deste metal. Também observou-se que diferentes fontes de fibra podem interferir de forma diversa na retenção de minerais tóxicos como o Cd, devendo-se ter cuidado com fontes ricas em fibras solúveis, como a linhaça, que podem aumentar a retenção do metal.

Made available in DSpace on 2017-07-10T18:08:04Z (GMT). No. of bitstreams: 1 Katia Andressa Santos.pdf: 1963088 bytes, checksum: b32ddfe59cde547120036db9bad8218c (MD5) Previous issue date: 2014-02-21 / Coordenação de Aperfeiçoamento de Pessoal de Nível Superior / Crambe (Crambe abyssinica) is an oilseed with high content of oil rich in erucic acid, a fatty acid with industrial application. In the extraction of vegetable oils are traditionally employed methods such as pressing and/or organic solvents, which are known to have several inconvenient. Within this context, this work aims to evaluate the use of propane in subcritical conditions in obtaining crambe oil, comparing the yields and characteristics of the oil obtained by this technique to oil produced by the conventional method with organic solvents hexane and dichloromethane. A 22 factorial design was employed to evaluate the effects of temperature and pressure on the yield of extraction with subcritical propane being used in experiments at temperatures between 40 and 80 oC and pressures between 80 and 160 bar, with a fixed solvent flow rate of 1.6 x10 -3 kg min- 1 and the total extraction time of 80 minutes. Mathematical modeling of the kinetics of subcritical extraction was also performed using the model of Sovová. Crambe oil was characterized as the total fatty acids, free glycerol compounds and levels of tocopherols profile. Also, calorimetric analyzes were performed to determine the oxidative stability of the oil and its melting point. In seeds and bran were determined their chemical composition and contents of phenolic compounds. The results confirmed the high fat seeds of crambe, and obtained yields of 51 and 48% in extractions with dichloromethane and hexane, respectively. In subcritical propane extraction, temperature was the only variable that had an effect on the response, with the highest yield (32.8%) obtained in the condition of 80 °C and 160 bar. The different experimental conditions revealed no significant differences in total, at a significance level of 5% fatty acid profile, and these consist mainly of monounsaturated fatty acids, such as erucic acid (56.72 to 59.38%). In the free fraction glycerol, free fatty acids content below 2% and among the phytosterols, β-sitosterol beyond and campesterol was possible to identify and quantify the brassicasterol, characteristic of the family to which belongs the crambe. Regarding tocopherols, crambe oil extracted with subcritical propane showed high levels of these compounds, especially γ -tocopherol, which directly focused on the oxidative stability. The bran extraction residue, was found to be a source of protein and potential antioxidants, such as phenolic. As for the mathematical modeling, the model Sovová satisfactorily represented the experimental data in all conditions employed. / O crambe (Crambe abyssinica) é uma oleaginosa com elevado teor de óleo rico em ácido erúcico, um ácido graxo de grande aplicação industrial. Na extração de óleos vegetais, tradicionalmente são empregados métodos como a prensagem e/ou a utilização de solventes orgânicos, que são conhecidos por apresentarem diversos inconvenientes. Dentro deste contexto, o presente trabalho visa avaliar a aplicação do propano em condições subcríticas na obtenção de óleo de crambe, comparando os rendimentos e características do óleo obtido por esta técnica ao óleo extraído pelo método convencional com os solventes orgânicos hexano e diclorometano. Um planejamento experimental 22 foi empregado para avaliar os efeitos da temperatura e pressão no rendimento da extração com propano subcrítico, sendo utilizadas nos experimentos temperaturas entre 40 e 80 oC e pressões entre 80 e 160 bar, com vazão fixa de solvente de 1,6x10-3 kg min-1 e tempo total de extração de 80 minutos. Também foi realizada a modelagem matemática da cinética de extração subcrítica empregando o modelo de Sovová. O óleo de crambe foi caracterizado quanto ao perfil de ácidos graxos totais, compostos livres de glicerol e teores de tocoferóis. Ainda, análises calorimétricas foram realizadas para determinar a estabilidade oxidativa do óleo e seu ponto de fusão. Nas sementes e farelos foram determinados sua composição centesimal e teores de compostos fenólicos. Os resultados comprovaram o elevado teor lipídico das sementes de crambe, sendo obtidos rendimentos de 51 e 48% nas extrações com diclorometano e hexano, respectivamente. Na extração com propano subcrítico, a temperatura foi a única variável que apresentou efeito sobre a resposta, sendo o maior rendimento (32,8%) obtido na condição de 80 oC e 160 bar. As condições experimentais não revelaram diferenças significativas quanto ao perfil de ácidos graxos totais, ao nível de significância de 5%, e estes são constituídos majoritariamente por ácidos graxos monoinsaturados, como o ácido erúcico (56,72 a 59,38%). Na fração não ligada ao glicerol, os ácidos graxos livres apresentaram teores abaixo de 2% e, dentre os fitosteróis, além do β-sitosterol e campesterol, foi possível identificar e quantificar o brassicasterol, característico da família à qual o crambe pertence. Quanto aos tocoferóis, o óleo de crambe extraído com propano subcrítico apresentou teores elevados destes compostos, principalmente de γ-tocoferol, o que incidiu diretamente na sua estabilidade oxidativa. O farelo, resíduo da extração, além de potencial proteico revelou ser fonte de compostos antioxidantes, como os fenólicos. Em relação à modelagem matemática, o modelo de Sovová representou satisfatoriamente os dados experimentais em todas as condições empregadas.