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Hedera nepalensis (H. nepalensis) , belonging to the family Araliaceae, is a medicinal plant traditionally used to treat stomach problems. The current study investigated the gastroprotective potential and the mechanism of action of H. nepalensis in diclofenac-and ethanol-induced ulcer models. Anti-oxidant and lipid peroxidation inhibitory prospects of H. nepalensis were checked out by free radical scavenging assay and UV spectrophotometer respectively. Effect of H. nepalensis on the pH, gastric total acidity of gastric juice and protective effects of H. nepalensis against ulcer models have been examined. Histopathological studies have been carried out. The aqueous methanol extract of H. nepalensis (100 µg/mL) showed anti-oxidant (83.55%) and lipid peroxidation inhibitory (70.88%) potential at 1000 µg/mL; the extract had no buffer potential. The extract (400 mg/kg) significantly (81.12% and 63.46%) showed gastroprotective effect in diclofenac and ethanol-induced rat ulcer models respectively. Histopathological studies confirmed the biochemical findings. FTIR analysis showed the presence of carboxylic acid, alkanes, conjugated alkanes, aldehydes and alkyl-aryl ethers. Gallic acid, M-coumaric acid and quercetin were found by HPLC analysis. H. nepalensis exhibited significant protection against diclofenac and ethanol induced gastric damage by anti-oxidant and lipid peroxidation suppression effects suggesting potential broad utility in treatment of diseases characterized with gastric damage.

Background: Dietary carbohydrates are a group of natural compounds that includes simple sugars and complex polysaccharides in addition to fibres. The primary role of carbohydrates is to provide energy for various physiological functions in the body. Objective: A relatively high intake of complex carbohydrates and a limited intake of added or free sugars are generally recommended for a healthy diet. Carbohydrates are essential nutrients that are obtained from consumed food and cannot be synthesized by the body. Methods: The requirement of carbohydrates in diets such as sugars, starches, and fibres is essential to understand and evaluate the nutritional status of individuals, populations, and the epidemiology of deficiency diseases. Results: The dietary guidelines specify that carbohydrates should provide about half of the total calories in a balanced diet while free sugars should be limited to 5-10% of energy. Dietary fibre is a non-digestible carbohydrate that is not absorbed in the body but is important for satiety and laxation. Adult humans should consume 40-60% of their daily calorie intake from carbohydrates, except for infants and children who need a higher proportion of fats and proteins in their diet. Conclusion: It is recommended to consume complex carbohydrates and dietary fibres in the diet for health. Free and added sugars are not recommended if a person is diabetic, obese, and trying to lose weight. The function of different types of carbohydrates in the diet is an active area of study and further recommendations are essential to elucidate its function in health and diseases.