ABSTRACT
The effect of pectin, high bran bread [HBB], low bran bread [LBB] and cooked potato added to low fat restricted calorie diets on body weight, serum lipids, HDL-cholesterol and liver lipids were studied in adult male obese rats for 8 weeks. Results were compared with fiber depleted low calorie diet. The HBB group had the highest weight loss [77 g]. Pectin and potato groups had comparable weight loss [67 g]. Pectin group had the highest fat loss and the lowest protein loss. Pectin displayed the most hypocholesterolemic effect, increased HDL- cholesterol and decreased serum triglycerides. HBB, LBB and potato groups exerted a hypocholesterolemic effect and increased HDL- cholesterol. Potato lowered serum triglycerides. In addition, liver cholesterol and triglycerides were reduced significantly for the four groups. The four regimens used proved effective in weight reduction and serum lipids modification