The effect of tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (dc) Merr.) seeds on lipid profile in protein-energy malnutrition rats

Children with protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) need a food product that can be easily absorbed by the body because they have impaired nutrient utilization and lipid profile disorder. The provision of fermented products such as tempeh is an alternative approach. Seeds of tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) are a good source of various nutrients needed by children with PEM. This study aimed to prove the effectiveness of the administration of tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) seeds on the lipid profile in PEM rats. PEM in rats was induced by a zero-protein diet containing granulated sugar (20 g), vegetable oil (1 g), and cornstarch (24 g). The animals were categorized into a normal control group (K+), a PEM group without treatment (K−); a group fed tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) seeds 1.5 g.kg-1 BW (P1); and a group fed tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) seeds 3 g.kg-1 BW (P2). The intervention was administered for 30 days. There was a significant increase in HDL levels (p = 0.001) and significant decreases in cholesterol (p = 0.001), triglyceride (p = 0.001), LDL levels (p = 0.001), and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) (p = 0.000) in treatment groups. In conclusion, the administration of tempeh flour from tree bean (Parkia timoriana (DC) Merr.) seeds increases HDL levels and decreases cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL level, and atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) in rats with PEM.