Evaluation of the Nutritional Impact of Baobab Leaves (Adansonia digitata L.) as a Dietary Intervention to Combat Nutrient Deficiencies and Poverty-Related Health Problems

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Baobab (Adansonia digitate L.) is an underutilized species and edible parts (fruits, leaves and seeds) contribute to food security and human health in tropical areas. Although the fruits have attracted greater research interest and have recently been approved for consumption in EU countries, the leaves are traditionally consumed but they have yet to be studied from an interventional perspective. The aim of this study was to propose a protocol for a dietary intervention using baobab leaves (BLs) to achieve the recommended reference values for proteins and minerals (K, Ca, Mg, Na, Fe, Mn) for different target groups of the Sudanese population. Methods: Dry matter, crude fat, protein and ash content, mineral content (Na, Mg, K, Ca, Fe, Mn), total phenolic, and flavonoid compounds were determined in BLs from six different areas. To assess the health and nutrition status in Sudan, time-series data (2013-2023) from the DataBank Health Nutrition and Population Statistics database were used. The reference values for nutrients recommended by the European Food Safety Authority were used to estimate the amount of baobab leaf intake (BLI, g/day). Results: For each nutrient, the study area with the lowest amount of BLs to be consumed is recommended. Leaves from the area of El Gari (BN3) 18.312 g/day and 30.712 g/day are recommended for K and Ca, which are particularly beneficial for children aged 1-3 years and lactating women. Leaves from Kor Tagat (KR1) are suitable for sodium intake, requiring approximately 13-23 g/day across all age groups. Leaves from Kazgil (KR2) (46-81 g/day), (35-66 g/day), (0.48-0.68 g/day), and (4-6 g/day) are optimal for fulfilling the daily requirements of magnesium, iron, manganese, and protein in this order. Conclusions: The systematic inclusion of BLs in the diet can positively support the nutritional status of various demographics. Moreover, the findings of this study demonstrated the foundation for public health and nutritional policy-makers on how they will tackle malnutrition and food insecurity worldwide by incorporating naturally available diets and nutritious alternatives. Recommendation: Further research should focus on assessing the nutritional composition factors that could affect the absorption of nutrients such as phytates and oxalates and investigating the in vitro bioavailability of the elements.