In recent years, functional drinks have gained significant attention due to their potential health benefits. A recent study conducted by the research team at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia has uncovered the promising effects of a cocoa-flavoured, soy-based powder drink enriched with hydrolysates from edible bird’s nests (EBNH). This innovative drink mix shows potential in managing common health issues such as hypertension, diabetes, and promoting satiety.
The research, published in the Journal of Food Quality and Safety, highlights the bioactive properties of edible bird’s nests, which are known for their unique health-promoting effects. The study examined how the addition of EBNH in a functional drink can improve cardiovascular health, regulate blood sugar, reduce inflammation, and help manage hunger. The findings present a novel approach to improving nutrition, particularly for individuals dealing with hypertension, diabetes, and weight management concerns.
Dr. Zalifah Mohd Kasim, the lead researcher and senior lecturer at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, explained the significance of this discovery, describing it as a major step forward in the development of functional foods. Dr. Kasim emphasized that the incorporation of EBNH into daily nutritional products could offer a practical solution for those seeking better health management while addressing common health challenges.
The Role of Edible Bird’s Nest Hydrolysates
Edible bird’s nests have long been prized in traditional medicine for their purported health benefits. Composed primarily of proteins, glycoproteins, and amino acids, they are known to provide a variety of bioactive compounds that support overall wellness. The recent study specifically focused on the hydrolysates derived from edible bird’s nests and their impact when incorporated into a cocoa-flavoured soy-based drink mix.
The functional drink in the study contained 3% EBNH and demonstrated impressive bioactive properties that contributed to various health benefits. One of the most notable findings was the drink’s ability to inhibit the activity of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), a common target for antihypertensive medications. ACE is an enzyme that plays a key role in regulating blood pressure by constricting blood vessels. By inhibiting ACE activity, the functional drink helps reduce blood pressure naturally, providing a potential alternative to traditional hypertension treatments.
Managing Hypertension and Improving Cardiovascular Health
Hypertension, or high blood pressure, affects a large portion of the global population and is a significant risk factor for heart disease and stroke. The research team’s findings suggest that the cocoa-flavoured soy drink enriched with EBNH hydrolysates could provide a natural and effective way to manage hypertension. By inhibiting ACE, the drink helps to relax blood vessels, reduce blood pressure, and potentially lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
In addition to its ACE-inhibiting effects, the drink’s antioxidant properties, derived from EBNH, further support cardiovascular health. Antioxidants help protect the body from oxidative stress, which is a contributing factor to inflammation and the development of chronic conditions, including heart disease. The study found that the drink’s antioxidant content also helped stabilize red blood cells and reduce inflammation, offering additional benefits for those managing chronic health issues.
Supporting Glycaemic Control and Diabetes Management
Diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, is another major health concern that affects millions worldwide. One of the key aspects of managing diabetes is controlling blood sugar levels, especially after meals. The study demonstrated that the functional drink had a low glycaemic index (GI), which is a measure of how quickly a food or drink raises blood sugar levels. A low GI product releases glucose into the bloodstream gradually, helping to prevent spikes in blood sugar levels, which is crucial for diabetes management.
The drink’s low glycaemic index makes it an excellent choice for individuals with diabetes. In human trials, participants who consumed the drink reported improved glycaemic control, particularly post-meal blood sugar stabilization. By offering a slow and steady release of energy, the drink helps to prevent blood sugar spikes and dips, contributing to better overall glucose management.
Furthermore, the high protein and fiber content of the drink played a key role in enhancing glycaemic control. Protein and fiber help slow down the absorption of sugar in the bloodstream, providing a more stable and sustained energy release. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with diabetes, who need to carefully manage their blood sugar levels throughout the day.
Promoting Satiety and Weight Management
Another standout feature of this functional beverage is its ability to prolong satiety, or the feeling of fullness after eating. In the study, participants reported feeling full for up to 2.5 hours after consuming the drink. This lasting feeling of fullness is primarily attributed to the high protein and fiber content in the drink, both of which are known to promote satiety and reduce overall calorie intake.
For individuals looking to manage their weight or reduce excess body fat, this drink could serve as a valuable tool. By keeping hunger at bay for extended periods, it helps reduce the likelihood of overeating and snacking between meals. This makes it an ideal addition to a weight management plan, especially for those seeking a convenient and nutritious option to support their dietary goals.
In addition to promoting satiety, the drink’s low-calorie formulation makes it an appealing choice for health-conscious consumers. With its combination of functional benefits—such as blood pressure regulation, improved glycaemic control, and appetite suppression—this drink could serve as a versatile option for people seeking a healthier lifestyle and better weight management.
A Breakthrough in Functional Foods
The study conducted by Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia underscores the growing interest in functional foods and beverages that offer health-promoting benefits beyond basic nutrition. Functional foods, such as the cocoa-flavoured soy drink enriched with EBNH, are becoming increasingly popular as people seek more convenient, effective, and natural ways to improve their health.
The inclusion of edible bird’s nest hydrolysates in the formulation of this drink is an exciting innovation in the functional food sector. As the demand for plant-based and functional beverages continues to rise, this study highlights the potential of edible bird’s nest as a key ingredient in the development of health-promoting products. Its bioactive properties—ranging from blood pressure management to improved blood sugar control and appetite regulation—make it a valuable addition to the functional food market.
Dr. Zalifah Mohd Kasim’s research supports the idea that functional foods, when formulated with ingredients like EBNH, can offer a holistic approach to health management. The findings demonstrate that such products can address multiple health concerns, making them an attractive option for individuals with hypertension, diabetes, or those seeking better weight management.
The cocoa-flavoured, soy-based drink enriched with edible bird’s nest hydrolysates offers a promising new way to manage hypertension, diabetes, and weight. By leveraging the bioactive properties of EBNH, the drink provides a natural alternative for blood pressure regulation, blood sugar control, and promoting satiety. As functional foods continue to gain popularity, this study highlights the potential of EBNH as a powerful ingredient in improving overall health and addressing specific health challenges. The incorporation of such innovative products into daily nutrition could pave the way for better health outcomes, especially for individuals managing chronic conditions.
