Effects of oral supplementation of black-eyed-bean (Vigna unguiculata) in ICR mice: a long-term study.

Abstract

Grain legumes are a main source of nutrients in some countries. Black-eyed-bean (BEB) (Vigna unguiculata), a member of theFabaceae family, is a grain legume consumed worldwide due to its high content of bioactive molecules that promote human health. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of 70% BEB flour (BEBF) (w/w) supplementation in ICR healthy mice for 13 weeks. Body and organs weights, as well as food and water intake, were measured. Hematological, biochemical, genotoxicity and stress oxidative analysis were also performed. Oral administration of BEBF revealed increased spleen relative weight and microhematocrit levels. BEBF has been shown to increase superoxide dismutase levels,suggesting an antioxidant effect. Furthermore, it also increased the glutathione-S-transferaselevels, indicatingthat the percentage administered to the mice could be excessive. We observed that the BEBF did not promote physiological changes or signs of toxicity, suggesting that the current dose is not harmful,and, in the future, it can be usedas a functional food supplement, and to prevent the development of diseases, namely cancer.