Effects of low fat diet and nigella sativa [Kalonji] on serum lipid probile of albino rats

ABSTRACT

Diet influences serum levels of total cholesterol, triglyceride and individual lipoproteins. We compared the serum lipid changes in albino rats fed on low fat sunflower oil diet and Nigella Sativa. Thirty two albino rats were divided into two groups, one control [C] group fed on low fat sunflower oil and other experimental [E] group fed on low fat sunflower oil diet and Nigella Sativa. The study was carried out for twelve weeks. Fasting blood samples were taken by heart puncture under ether anaesthesia for serum lipid profile. Estimations were carried out by recommended methods. Statistical methods was done by using students's "t" test. We found an increase in total cholesterol, triglyceride, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol [HDL-c] and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol [LDL-c]. We concluded from the study that polyunsaturated fatty acids in low proportions and Nigella Sativa has HDL-c raising effect, which has anti-atherogenic potential