Legume - an inconspicuous fighter against the metabolic syndrome

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is metabolic alterations characterised by dysglycemia, raised blood pressure, elevated triglyceride levels, low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels, and obesity. It is associated with high morbidity and mortality and the prevalence of it has been increasing in recent years. A significant impact on the risk to develop MetS has dietary habits. Many studies emphasise legume consumption advantages contributing to a decrease of a cluster of metabolic risk factors. The most effective range daily legume consumption is between 55 and 70 g/day. Some varieties of legumes can reform blood pressure by ACE inhibitory activity. Soybean protein hydrolysis showed an advantageous effect on lipid profile by HMGCR inhibitory activity. Legume intake seems to be a valuable predictor of decreasing BMI and abdominal adiposity because of high fibre levels and regulation of adiponectin and 8-epi-PGF2α in obese subjects. Increasing part of legumes as a protein and carbohydrates source in diet, significantly reduces the risk of glucose-insulin homeostasis disorders. Evidently, legumes have comprehensive dietary advantages. However more data and further research on the long-term effects of legumes on metabolic alterations are required to elucidate their effective health implications. Present review is based on articles accessible on pubmed service.