Reducing Effect of a Standardized Extract of Apple Branches on Food Intake in Healthy, Nonobese Rats

Literature data suggest that apple-derived products, including phenol-enriched extracts, may reduce food intake in rodent models of diet-induced obesity. With the intent of further expanding this research issue, the present study investigated the effect of an apple branch extract (ABE)-standardized for the polyphenol, phlorizin (22.93%)-on regular food intake in healthy, nonobese Wistar rats. Rats were given unlimited access to standard food pellets and water in the homecage. Acute, intragastric treatment with ABE (0, 300, and 900 mg/kg) effectively and selectively reduced food intake. The effect of 900 mg/kg ABE was closely replicated by acute treatment with 200 mg/kg pure phlorizin, suggesting that this was the likely active ingredient underlying the effect of ABE on food intake. These results further strengthen the hypothesis that apple-derived products may represent a promising option for novel pharmacotherapies for eating disorders and overweight.