Development of Nutraceuticals for Management of PCOS and Iron Deficiency

Abstract

The present study was aimed at developing and evaluating nutraceutical formulations using nutrient-rich seeds, nuts, and herbal ingredients for the management of Iron Deficiency Anaemia (IDA) and Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Two formulations, namely multigrain Nutri-Chikki and herbal leaf/nut powders, were prepared using pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, sesame seeds, watermelon seeds, almonds, dates, spinach, moringa, wheatgrass, asparagus, and Malabar spinach. The formulations were evaluated for nutritional and physicochemical parameters including protein content, fiber estimation, fat estimation, peroxide value, swelling index, hydration capacity, moisture content, crude fiber, and ash value. Organoleptic stability studies were also carried out for 45 days. The Nutri-Chikki formulation exhibited good organoleptic characteristics with no significant changes in taste, color, aroma, and texture during storage. Protein content was confirmed by Biuret reaction. Fiber estimation showed 20% crude fiber content, while fat estimation was found to be 16.6%. The peroxide value was 5.2%, indicating acceptable oxidative stability. The herbal leaf powder demonstrated satisfactory swelling index (55.6%), swelling capacity (1.4 ml/g), and hydration capacity (2.5 g water/g powder), indicating its suitability as a nutraceutical supplement. The developed formulations were rich in iron, folic acid, antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and phytochemicals that may support the management of IDA and PCOS. The study concludes that multigrain Nutri-Chikki and herbal powders can serve as promising functional foods and nutraceutical products with potential therapeutic benefits.