The acute effects of baobab fruit ( Adansonia digitata) on satiety in healthy adults.

BACKGROUND: The baobab fruit is high in both dietary fibre and polyphenols and therefore may increase satiety. The aim of the study was to measure the effects of baobab fruit extract on satiety.

METHODS: The study was conducted on 20 healthy participants. The study was a one-day single-blind crossover design. Participants were randomised to either a test smoothie consisting of 15 g of baobab extract or a control smoothie without the addition of baobab. Subjective ratings of satiety were taken on visual analogue scales immediately pre-consumption and then post-consumption, and energy intake at a post ad libitum meal was recorded.

RESULTS: Subjective measures of hunger were reduced following the test smoothie compared with the control ( p < 0.05). There was no significant difference in calorie intake at an ad libitum meal.

CONCLUSIONS: This research has positive implications for the use of baobab for reducing hunger, possibly having a positive effect on weight maintenance.