Nutritional and healthical aspects of yacon (Smallanthus sonchifolius) for human, animals and poultry

Abstract

Non-digestible oligosaccharides as well as phenolic compounds inulins and fructooligosaccharides of Smallanthus sonchifolius make it an attractive functional food. Consumption of these non-digestible oligosaccharides improves gastrointestinal metabolism, increases the growth of bifido bacteria in the colon and also acts as antioxidant, antimicrobial, prebiotic, growth promoter, hypoglycemic, hepatoprotective compounds via lowering alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and increasing mineral absorption to maintain bone homeostasis and also help to reduce cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Past to present literature have been reviewed and the results indicated that Smallanthus sonchifolius root consumption modulates the immune system by regulating the intestinal secretion of IgA and interferon IFN-γ subsequently enhancing resistance to infections and allergic reactions. This role not only facilitates the exclusion of potential pathogenic bacteria but also ultimately increases defense of the host. Previously published literature has focused on rat, human, pig and livestock but biological and clinical evidence is scarce on the same aspect in poultry. Therefore, this review article aimed to highlight the origin, chemical composition, different beneficial uses and biohazards of yacon plant (which contains 70-80% fructooligosaccharides (FOS)) that could be used as a novel natural prebiotic in poultry feed. The FOS could improve different health aspects and productive performance criteria of different poultry species. To recommend yacon plant as a natural and safe medicinal agent, more indices need to be determined in further studies on different livestock and poultry species on molecular level to assure its benefits and to give accurate recommendation for the optimal levels to be added as feed additive.