EFFECTIVENESS OF MELINJO SEED EXTRACT (Gnetum gnemon L.) ON BODY WEIGHT, SUBCUTANEOUS FAT, VISCERAL FAT, AND CHOLESTEROL IN WISTAR MALE WHITE RATS (Rattus Norvegicus) WITH OBESITY GIVEN MODERATE INTENSITY PHYSICAL ACTIVITY

Abstract

Obesity is a global health issue linked to several metabolic disorders. Natural products, including those containing bioactive compounds, are gaining attention as complementary approaches for weight management. Melinjo seeds (Gnetum gnemon L.) are rich in phytochemicals that may support metabolic health. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of melinjo seed extract combined with moderate-intensity physical activity on body weight, abdominal subcutaneous fat, abdominal visceral fat, and cholesterol levels in obese male Wistar rats. A randomized controlled trial was performed with 24 rats, which were assigned to three groups: control (P0), moderate-intensity physical activity (P1), and moderate-intensity physical activity with melinjo extract (P2). Following a 42-day high-fat diet to induce obesity, the rats underwent a 28-day intervention period. Significant improvements were observed in group P2, with reductions in body weight, subcutaneous fat, visceral fat, and cholesterol. Group P1 showed improvements but to a lesser extent, while group P0 showed no significant changes. These results suggest that melinjo seed extract combined with physical activity effectively reduces weight and fat. Future research should investigate the molecular mechanisms and potential human applications.