Effectiveness of Dipteryx alata Vog. in modulating anxiety, metabolic health, and reproductive parameters in rats treated during pregnancy and lactation

Abstract

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effects of baru oil and almonds on anxiety behavior, and biochemical, physical, and reproductive parameters in Wistar rats treated during gestation and lactation. The rats were randomized into three groups: Control (CG) and two experimental groups, treated with 2,000 mg of baru almond or oil/kg of weight via gavage. Reproductive parameters were analyzed at the end of gestation, and behavioral tests were conducted at the end of lactation. Maternal blood was collected for biochemical profile analysis, along with brain tissue, liver, and feces for fatty acid profile analysis. Colon histology and oxidative stress in the brain were also measured. The results demonstrated that treatment with oil and almonds did not affect reproductive rates. In the elevated plus maze, mothers from the experimental groups showed an increased number of entries, more time spent in the open arms, and a greater number of head dips compared to the CG. In the open field, locomotion increased while grooming decreased in the experimental groups, and defecation was reduced in the almond group. The groups spent more time in the clear area of the light–dark box (LDB) and exhibited higher levels of glutathione and lower levels of malondialdehyde in the brain. Both treatments decreased plasma levels of glucose, total cholesterol, and triglycerides while preserving renal, hepatic, and cardiovascular function. Colon histology and the omega-6/3 ratio in feces indicated an inflammatory profile in the oil group. These findings support the use of baru almonds in the diets of pregnant/lactating women as a safe alternative for managing anxiety and promoting metabolic health.