INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF FOOD SCIENCES AND NUTRITION, 2024 (SCI-Expanded)
High-fat diets contribute to various metabolic disorders. Inulin supplementation has been shown to reduce appetite, lower food intake, and promote weight loss. Although there is evidence that the endocannabinoid system has metabolic effects in the prefrontal cortex, studies investigating the effects of inulin on the endocannabinoid system are limited. This study investigated the impact of inulin on obesity through the endocannabinoid system in the prefrontal cortex. Twenty-four male Wistar rats were fed one of four diets over 12 weeks. Findings indicated that a high-fat diet led to obesity, whereas inulin reduced food intake and supported weight loss. Consequently, inulin supplementation both prevented obesity and significantly decreased the expressions of Adrb3 and Adcy1, and anandamide and 2-arachidonylglycerol levels in the prefrontal cortex. Additionally, inulin lowered leptin in circulation and stimulated Trpv1. Thus, inulin may mitigate obesity development, possibly by modulating gene expressions linked to obesity in the prefrontal cortex via endocannabinoids. Inulin decreases food intake and promotes weight loss. Adding inulin to HFD significantly decreased serum leptin levels, decreased Adrb3 and Adcy1 expressions, and AEA and 2-AG levels in the PFC. 2-AG: 2-arachidonylglycerol; AEA: Anandamide; Adcy1: Adenylate cyclase1; Adrb3: beta 3-adrenergic receptor; HFD: high fat diet; PFC: prefrontal cortex.