Anti-Lipidemic and Anti-Glycemic Potential of Lactational Exposure to Flavonoid from Hibiscus sabdariffa in Offspring of Wistar Rats

Background and Aim: An individual's growth, organ development, physical makeup, and health are significantly influenced by their nutrition in the early stages of development. Hibiscus sabdariffa have been associated with beneficial effects on human health. The anti-lipidemic and anti-glycemic potential of lactational exposure to flavonoid from Hibiscus sabdariffa from birth to postnatal day 42 was investigated in Wistar rats.

Methods: Sixteen in-bred pregnant female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to four groups of four rats each. Group 1 was used as normal control. Groups 2, 3 and 4 oral doses of 10, 20 and 50 mg of flavonoid respectively for 21 days. The body weight and length of the dams were measured daily. At postnatal day 21, the dams were assigned into four groups according to their parent rat. Their water and food intake were also measured daily and recorded. At postnatal day 42, blood sample was collected by occulo-puncture for serum lipid profile analysis and glucose tolerance test was done using Accucheck strip.

Results: There was a significant decrease in fluid and food intake, body weight and body length at the doses tested. Also, there was a significant decrease in the lipid profile at different doses. The oral glucose tolerance test revealed the ability of flavonoid to regulate glucose homeostasis in the offspring.

Conclusion: Consumption of flavonoid from H. sabdariffa may ameliorate diabetes status and also reduce the risk factors associated with cardiovascular diseases.

Significance: Results from this study can be used as a preventive guide to cardiovascular diseases.