Effects of freeze-dried Fragaria x ananassa powder on alloxan-induced diabetic complications in Wistar rats

ABSTRACT

Strawberries contain antioxidant phytochemicals, which have been shown to beneficial against inflammation, cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, neurodegeneration, hyperglycaemia and associated diabetic complications. Freeze-dried strawberry powder [FSP] is effective in controlling metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors. The present investigation was designed to evaluate the effect of FSP on alloxan-induced diabetes in rats. Diabetes was induced in male Wistar albino rats by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate [150 mg/kg bw], and treatment with FSP [700 mg/day for 45 days] was started 48 h after alloxan injection. Blood glucose, insulin, C-peptide, haemoglobin, renal function markers [urea, uric acid and creatinine] and enzyme markers [aspartate and alanine transaminases and alkaline phosphatase] were assayed with suitable methods. Animals given alloxan had significant body weight loss, poor glucose tolerance and increased blood glucose with concomitant decreases in insulin, C-peptide and haemoglobin values, and significant [p < 0.05] changes in the levels of renal function markers and enzyme activities. Oral administration of FSP for 45 days significantly [p < 0.05] reverted the body weight loss, hyperglycaemia, biochemical parameters, enzyme activities and insulin levels to near normal levels. FSP can revert alloxan-induced diabetes and its complications. The antioxidant properties of the fruit probably play a major role in the observed changes