Hypolipidemic and Antioxidative Effects of African Star Apple Juice (<i>Chrysophylum albidum</i>) on Rats Fed on Diets High in Cholesterol and Oil

Abstract

This study investigated the possible hypolipidemic and antioxidative effects of <i>Chrysophylum albidum</i> juice in rats fed on highcholesterol and fatty diets (HFCD). The juice was expressed, pasteurized and frozen until needed. Diets were formulated by mixing at different ratios. Bio-assay of the blends was carried out for a period of 28 days. Twenty five male rats were divided into five groups of five each: a normal diet group, a high-cholesterol diet group, a high Fat/Cholesterol diet with 3 ml of African Star Apple Juice group, a high Fat/Cholesterol diet with 6 ml of African Star Apple Juice group, and a high Fat/Cholesterol diet with 9 ml of African Star Apple Juice group. Blood serum, selected tissues and organs were collected and the serum lipid profile, organ histology and oxidative stress test were carried out at the end of the animal experimentation. The levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride, low density lipoprotein-cholesterol, very low density lipoprotein-cholesterol and artherogenic index obtained from rats treated with African star apple juice (3 ml, 6 ml and 9 ml) decreased significantly (P ≤ 0.05), compared respectively to the HFCD rats. The results also showed that treatment with African star apple (<i>Chrysophylum albidum</i>) positively changed plasma antioxidant enzyme activities and lipid profiles in cholesterol-fed rats, and thus may have potential hypolipidemic and antioxidant effects, and by inference, the antiatherogenic properties in male rats. African star apple (<i>Chrysophylum albidum</i>) juice could protect against oxidative stress linked atherosclerosis and decrease the atherogenic index, thereby supporting the local use of <i>Chrysophylum albidum</i> in the management of atherosclerosis and hypertensive conditions.