International Journal of Aquaculture, 2024, Vol.14, No.2, 91-100 http://www.aquapublisher.com/index.php/ija 94 3.2 Micronutrient content In addition to macronutrients, lotus rhizome contains various micronutrients that are vital for maintaining health. These include vitamins and minerals that play essential roles in numerous physiological processes. The rhizome is particularly noted for its content of phenolic compounds, flavonoids, tannins, alkaloids, and other secondary metabolites, which not only contribute to its nutritional value but also provide medicinal benefits (Fatima et al., 2018; Zhu et al., 2022). These compounds have been linked to antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and other health-promoting properties. 3.3 Dietary fiber Dietary fiber is another important component of the lotus rhizome. It aids in digestion and helps maintain a healthy gut. The presence of dietary fiber in the rhizome makes it beneficial for digestive health and can help in managing conditions such as constipation and other gastrointestinal disorders (Yamini et al., 2019a). The fiber content also contributes to the feeling of fullness, which can aid in weight management. 3.4 Caloric value The caloric value of lotus rhizome is primarily derived from its carbohydrate content. This makes it an excellent source of energy, especially in diets where high energy intake is required. The balance of macronutrients ensures that the rhizome provides a steady release of energy, making it suitable for inclusion in various dietary plans (Yamini et al., 2019a). In summary, the lotus rhizome is a nutritionally rich food source, offering a balanced profile of macronutrients, essential micronutrients, dietary fiber, and a significant caloric value. Its inclusion in the diet can provide numerous health benefits, supported by its rich phytochemical composition (Fatima et al., 2018; Zhu et al., 2022). 4 Health Benefits of Lotus Rhizome 4.1 Antioxidant properties Lotus rhizome is rich in phenolic compounds, which contribute significantly to its antioxidant properties. Studies have shown that different parts of the lotus, including the rhizome, contain high levels of phenolic acids, flavonoids, and other polyphenols, which are known for their ability to scavenge free radicals and reduce oxidative stress (Zhu et al., 2022; Temviriyanukul et al., 2020) (Figure 2). The antioxidant potential of lotus rhizome has been demonstrated through various assays, such as DPPH and ABTS scavenging activities, highlighting its capacity to protect cells from oxidative damage (Zhu et al., 2022). 4.2 Anti-inflammatory effects The anti-inflammatory properties of lotus rhizome are attributed to its bioactive compounds, which can modulate inflammatory pathways. Research indicates that lotus seed protein isolate can significantly reduce the production of pro-inflammatory mediators such as nitric oxide (NO), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukins (IL-6 and IL-1β) in LPS-stimulated macrophages by inhibiting the NF-κB and MAPK signaling pathways (Moon et al., 2019). This suggests that lotus rhizome may be effective in managing inflammatory conditions and reducing the risk of chronic inflammatory diseases. 4.3 Cardiovascular health Lotus rhizome has been traditionally used to manage cardiovascular diseases, and modern research supports its cardioprotective effects. The bioactive compounds in lotus rhizome, including flavonoids and alkaloids, have been shown to improve lipid profiles, reduce hypertension, and enhance overall cardiovascular health (Chen et al., 2019; Bishayee et al., 2022). These compounds help in lowering LDL cholesterol levels and improving blood circulation, thereby reducing the risk of atherosclerosis and other cardiovascular disorders. 4.4 Antimicrobial activity The antimicrobial properties of lotus rhizome are well-documented, with studies showing its effectiveness against a range of bacterial and fungal pathogens. The phenolic compounds and other bioactive constituents in lotus rhizome exhibit strong antimicrobial activity, which can be beneficial in preventing and treating infections (Chen
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