Abstract
Sweet cherries (Prunus avium L.) are a source of bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which are antioxidants that contribute to protection against oxidative stress. It is known that the composition of cherries is influenced by external conditions, such as the geographic origin of cultivation, and that biological rhythms have a significant effect on oxidative stress. Therefore, in this study, Fischer 344 rats were exposed to various photoperiods and were supplemented with Brooks sweet cherries from two different geographical origins, local (LC) and non-local (NLC), to evaluate the interaction of supplementation and biological rhythms with regard to the oxidative stress status. The results indicate that the two fruits generated specific effects and that these effects were modulated by the photoperiod. Consumption of sweet cherries in-season, independently of their origin, may promote health by preventing oxidative stress, tending to: enhance antioxidant status, decrease alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) activities, reduce liver malondialdehyde (MDA) levels, and maintain constant serum MDA values and reactive oxygen species (ROS) generation.
Highlights
Many dietary phytochemicals, such as phenolic compounds, are synthesized as secondary metabolites that provide protection to plants against stresses [1]
We evaluated whether consumption of sweet cherries from different geographical regions influences metabolism, antioxidant status, and oxidative stress in Fischer
The samples were obtained at commercial maturity, soluble solids content was measured as an indicator of maturity, local sweet cherry (LC) showed 8.43 ± 0.45 ◦ Brix, and non-local sweet cherry (NLC) had 9.13 ± 0.12 ◦ Brix
Summary
Many dietary phytochemicals, such as phenolic compounds, are synthesized as secondary metabolites that provide protection to plants against stresses [1] These plant-derived chemicals consumed in relatively low doses activate adaptive cellular response signaling to produce stress resistance and other health advantages [2]. These molecules have been shown to be modulated by the environment, seasons, and various types of stress [3]. Animals can use this signaling to anticipate seasonal changes and develop survival adaptations [4] This phenomenon is known as xenohormesis and explains that bioactive compounds generated by plants under environmental stresses can provide resilience to stress and once consumed can generate survival benefits [2].
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