Effect of Watermelon (Citrullus Vulgaris) Seed Kernels on Serum Lipid Profile and Body Weight of Male Albino Rats

Abstract

Watermelon seeds usually thrown away, but are very good sources of protein, fat and minerals. Watermelon seeds collected, washed, dried and dehusked. The seed kernels were separated from the seed coat and ground in mixer grinder. Eight male Wister albino rats weighing 105-150g assigned into control and treated group (n = 4). The control group received normal stock diet (20% protein, 5 % fat, 60 % carbohydrate). The treated group received a modified diet ( 90g Stock diet excluding groundnut oil + 9g watermelon seed kernel + 1g sugar ). Percentages of protein, fat and carbohydrate were kept same as that of the stock diet. All animals were given water ab libitum. Rats were weighed at weekly intervals. After 28 days blood samples collected via cardiac puncture and lipid profile analyzed. The results showed that the treated group had significantly higher ( p < 0.01 ) weight gain and PER ( Protein Efficiency Ratio ) than the control group. Serum triglyceride (TG) and VLDL-C of the treated group were significantly decreased ( p < 0.05 and p < 0.05 respectively ) in comparison to the control group. Serum total cholesterol, LDL and AI (Atherogenic Index) were decreased whereas HDL increased in the treated group. Citrulline and Arginine in watermelon seeds may be the major factor of these beneficial effects related to lipid profile. Stimulatory effect on growth may be due to the presence of good quality protein (evidenced by increased PER) and high amount of fat.