Matcha mitigates metabolic and inflammatory disturbances induced by high-fat-sucrose diets in rats

Abstract

This study investigated the protective effects of Matcha extract against metabolic and organ issues caused by high-fat and high-sugar diets (HFSD) in rats. Matcha showed strong antioxidant activity, with phenolic and flavonoid contents measuring 238.25 mg/g and 60.81 mg/g, respectively. Rats fed on the HFSD gained more weight and had elevated levels of total cholesterol, LDL, triglycerides, and markers for liver and kidney stress, like ALT, AST, and creatinine. Matcha supplementation normalized the weight, cholesterol, LDL, ALT and creatinine. Antioxidant enzymes such as liver SOD were restored, and harmful substances like TBARS and NO were significantly decreased. Gene analysis revealed that beneficial genes were upregulated, while inflammatory markers were downregulated. Tissue analysis showed that Matcha helped protect liver and kidney structures from HFSD damage, reducing inflammation and cellular harm. Overall, the results highlight Matcha's promise as a dietary supplement for combating the metabolic and inflammatory effects of high-fat, high-sugar diets. • Matcha showed strong antioxidant activity and high phenolic and flavonoid contents. • Rats fed on the high-fat and high-sugar diets gained more weight. • Matcha supplementation normalized the weights of the high-weighted rats. • Matcha extract showed anti-inflammatory activity.