Effects of neutral detergent fiber from blackgram (Phaseolus mungo) in rats and rabbits.

The hypocholesterolemic action of neutral detergent fiber (NDF) from blackgram (Phaseolus mungo) in rats may be due to hemicellulose, since removal of hemicellulose resulted in the loss of cholesterol-lowering action. Blackgram NDF showed different binding affinities for different bile acids, with maximum binding observed with chenodeoxycholic acid, and minimum binding with deoxycholic acid. Fecal excretion of inorganic cations (Mn++, Mg++, Cu++, Fe , Zn++, Na+ and K+) was greater in rats fed blackgram NDF than in rats fed a fiber-free diet. Absorption of glucose and cholesterol was lower in rabbits fed blackgram NDF than in rabbits fed a fiber-free diet. In vitro studies revealed significant binding of inorganic cations and bile acids by blackgram NDF. Cholic acid may be adsorbed on the surface of blackgram NDF.