THE EFFECT OF Theobroma cacao LEAVES ON THE BODY MASS INDEX AND BLOOD GLUCOSE LEVEL IN INDUCED-METABOLIC DISORDER RATS
Authors: Zainal, B.1*, Abirami, S.S.2, Puteri Insyirah, Z2, Syed Amir Khairi, S.H2, Bee Hui, O.2, Siti Munirah, M.N2, Hafizah, A.H.3 and Mahadi, M2*
Journal Issue: Malaysian Cocoa Journal, Volume 17 2025
Keywords: Anti-obesity, anti-glycemic, adiposity index, metabolic disorder, cocoa leaves
Published On: 5/11/2025
Abstract
Metabolic disorders such as obesity and diabetes are rising globally, prompting interest in alternative therapies. Theobroma cacao (T. cacao), known for its medicinal properties, contains bioactive compounds that may offer therapeutic benefits. This study evaluated the effects of T. cacao leaf extract on body weight and blood glucose levels in diet-induced metabolic disorder Sprague-Dawley rats. Thirty-six rats were randomly divided into six groups. Five groups were fed a high sodium-fat diet (HSFD) for 7 weeks to induce metabolic disorder. Treatments were then administered for 4 weeks with T. cacao leaf extract (MD CE), cocoa leaf powder (MD C), or GreenCoa (a cocoa and green tea combination, MD GC). A positive control group (MD CAM) received captopril, atorvastatin, and metformin. Body weight, BMI, adiposity index, and blood glucose levels were monitored throughout the study. After 7 weeks of HSFD, all induced groups showed a significant increase in blood glucose compared to baseline (week 0). By week 11, glucose levels declined in the MD+CAM, MD+CE, MD+C, and MD+GC groups. BMI increased in all groups by week 7 (p<0.05), but no significant changes were observed by week 11 following treatment. A significant difference in adiposity index was observed between the normal and HSFD-fed groups, though no significant difference was seen among the treated groups. These findings suggest T. cacao leaf extract may help modulate metabolic parameters and improve glucose regulation. Further studies are needed to clarify its mechanisms of action and therapeutic potential.