New Okra and Hyaluronic Acid Films for Quick-Dissolving Functional Foods

Greg Howard
12th August, 2024

New Okra and Hyaluronic Acid Films for Quick-Dissolving Functional Foods

Image Source: Natural Science News, 2024

Key Findings

  • Researchers at Delhi Technological University developed oral disintegrating films (ODFs) using okra mucilage, hyaluronic acid, vitamin-C-loaded bioactive glass nanoparticles, and clove essential oil
  • The films disintegrate quickly in the mouth, making them suitable for people who have difficulty swallowing, such as the elderly and children
  • The ODFs are nutrient-rich, non-irritant, and have enhanced mechanical, thermal, and antibacterial properties, making them effective for nutrient delivery and oral health
Oral disintegrating films (ODFs) are emerging as a patient-friendly method to deliver health benefits, particularly for those who struggle with swallowing, such as the elderly and children. A recent study conducted by researchers at Delhi Technological University delves into the fabrication and characterization of ODFs composed of okra mucilage (OM), hyaluronic acid (HA), vitamin-C-loaded bioactive glass nanoparticles (VBG NPs), and clove essential oil[1]. This study aims to create a nutrient-rich, functional film that disintegrates rapidly in the mouth, providing a convenient and effective delivery system. The researchers employed a bio-inspired method using a fructose template to synthesize VBG NPs. The nutrient analysis of okra mucilage revealed it is rich in protein, carbohydrates, magnesium, and flavonoids like quercetin, which contribute to its antioxidant properties. This aligns with previous studies that highlight the potential of naturally occurring substances in functional foods to improve health and combat chronic diseases[2]. The ODFs were characterized by several physicochemical properties, including contact angle measurement, surface pH, opacity, and in vitro disintegration time. The results showed that the films disintegrated quickly in simulated saliva, indicating their suitability for oral delivery. The neutral surface pH of the ODFs suggests they are non-irritant to the oral mucosa, a critical factor for patient comfort and compliance. The addition of VBG NPs and essential oil enhanced the thermal and mechanical properties of the films. Further, the infusion of essential oil into the film matrix resulted in a porous and antibacterial nature, as demonstrated by field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) and antibacterial disk diffusion assays. These findings are significant as they show the dual functionality of the films in providing both nutrient delivery and antibacterial protection, which could be beneficial for oral health. The study also found that the ODFs are hemocompatible, with a hemolysis rate of less than 5%, making them safe for functional food applications. This is particularly relevant given the rising interest in alginate-based biopolymer products for delivering bioactive compounds in nutraceuticals and functional foods[3]. The use of okra mucilage, a natural and nutrient-rich substance, in the ODFs highlights the potential of combining plant-based materials with advanced nanotechnology to create effective health solutions. One intriguing aspect of this study is its potential application in treating recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS), a common oral mucosal disorder characterized by painful ulcers. Previous research has shown that certain dietary factors, such as the consumption of fruits and water, can help prevent RAS[4]. The antioxidant properties of okra mucilage and the antibacterial effects of clove essential oil in the ODFs could provide complementary benefits in managing RAS symptoms, offering a novel approach to a condition with limited treatment options[5]. In summary, the study by Delhi Technological University demonstrates the potential of okra mucilage-based ODFs as a multifunctional delivery system for health benefits. By incorporating bioactive glass nanoparticles and essential oils, the researchers have created a film that is not only nutrient-rich but also possesses enhanced mechanical, thermal, and antibacterial properties. This innovative approach could pave the way for new functional food applications, offering a convenient and effective solution for those with swallowing difficulties and potentially aiding in the management of oral health conditions like RAS.

NutritionBiochemPlant Science

References

Main Study

1) Physicochemical characterization of novel okra mucilage/hyaluronic acid-based oral disintegrating films for functional food applications.

Published 9th August, 2024

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.134633

Related Studies

2) Functional foods and their impact on health.

https://doi.org/10.1007/s13197-021-05193-3

3) Alginate biopolymeric structures: Versatile carriers for bioactive compounds in functional foods and nutraceutical formulations: A review.

https://doi.org/10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2023.127067

4) Relationship between dietary factors and recurrent aphthous stomatitis in China: a cross-sectional study.

https://doi.org/10.1177/03000605211017724

5) The safety and efficacy of AphtoFix® mouth ulcer cream in the management of recurrent aphthous stomatitis.

https://doi.org/10.1186/s12903-016-0177-0


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