Influence of dietary lupin seed mixed diet on serum cholesterol level in normal and diabetic rabbits

ABSTRACT

Fractions of lupine seed were added to the diet of both normal and diabetic hypercholesterolemic rabbits for 8 weeks. The effects on blood glucose, plasma glucagon and plasma cholesterol levels were investigated. The lipid extract had no effect. The defatted fraction, which is rich in fibers [11.0%] and contains 0.3% of alkaloid, significantly lowered basal blood glucose, plasma glucagon and plasma cholesterol levels in normal rabbits. The addition of this fraction to the food of diabetic hypercholesterolemic rabbits caused a decrease of cholesterolemic and reduced hyperglycemia. In conclusion, the defatted portion of lupine seed induced a hypocholesterolemic effect