ABSTRACT
This investigation aims to assess the effect on health of some modified snacks prepared by addition of different food items known to be rich either in protein or compounds with health value. A basic formula based on snacks available in the local market was modified by adding each of eggs, whey protein, chickpea, soybean, wheat germ, carrot, orange peel or strawberry. The modified products were evaluated through assessment of their effect on lipid pattern and possible atherosclerosis by following the level of plasma total cholesterol and triglycerides, the state of oxidation stress through estimation of R.B.C's malondialdehyde [MDA] and plasma superoxide dismutase enzyme activity [SOD] and the state of the liver and bile duct through determining the level of gamma -glutamyl transferase [gamma -GT]. Groups of rats were given either the basic formula of snack or the modified ones together with a selectively high cholesterol level. It was observed that the modified formulas succeeded to protect against the increase in plasma cholesterol and triglycerides. Also they protect against the state of oxidation stress confirmed by decreased MDA level and with no hazard on the liver indicated by the normal or even low activity of gamma -GT. It is concluded that snacks available in the local market can be modified to better ones through addition of different food items. The modified snacks are of high protein content and can protect against hyperlipidemia and oxidation stress with no harmful effect on liver