CHAPTER 12: Food-derived Peptides in Lipid Metabolism

Increased triglyceride and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) levels along with lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol concentrations define dyslipidemia and other lipid metabolism disorders that are known to influence obesity pathogenesis, metabolic syndrome and diabetes along with cardiovascular complications. Therapeutic interventions are routinely applied to manage fluctuating lipid levels to ameliorate potential cardiac complications. Dietary proteins have been found to have essential roles in lipid metabolism owing to their amino acid content. Further research on how dietary proteins and protein-derived peptides impact the mechanisms of action is necessary, but preliminary data infer lower lipid absorption and an enhanced rate of lipid elimination. The knowledge gained from animal studies is difficult to extrapolate to humans owing to different consumption parameters. Human studies should also be expanded to include populations with diverse lipid profiles. Validation of the benefits of proteins ingested through regular diets must be comprehensive. Studies to measure the effects of dietary proteins on lipid metabolism should include cohorts with high levels of lipid in the blood. Robust investigations can lead to the development of a suitable dietary regimen in patients with fluctuations in lipid levels and associated complexities.