Effects of continuous intake of Monostroma nitidum on anthropometric index and clinical test results in healthy individuals: A randomized comparison study

Abstract

　We conducted a randomized comparison study to investigate the effects of continuous intake of Monostroma nitidum on the human body through anthropometric index assessment and clinical tests.

　During the 5-month period from July to December 2019, 30 participants, who were divided into two groups by stratified randomization, either consumed 3 g dry weight per day of Monostroma nitidum (MNgroup) or continued everyday life as usual (control group). Before the study, anthropometric indices (such as body weight, BMI, body fat percentage, and skeletal muscle mass), bone density, toe muscle strength, blood pressure, fasting blood glucose, HbA1c, glycoalbumin (GA), total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, LDL-cholesterol, and triglyceride levels were measured. A meal survey was also conducted at the same time. The anthropometric indices, bone density, and toe muscle strength were measured at 2.5 months after starting the study, and the same measurements as before the study were performed at 5 months, and compared with pre-study values.

　Bone density, toe muscle strength, and amount of exercise were not different between the groups. However, both groups had increased body fat mass and body fat percentage. The degree of changes in diastolic blood pressure showed to lower value (p＜0.05) in the MN group (-1.47 ± 10.24 mmHg (mean ± standard deviation)) than in the control group (+6.29 ± 12.38 mmHg). HbA1c decreased in both groups. On the other hand, LDL-Cho went up intentionally by the MNgroup (p＜0.05).

　The present results suggest that daily consumption of 3 g dry weight of Monostroma nitidum might suppress diastolic blood pressure elevation. On the other hand, the rise of LDL-Cho is considered that the further examination is required.