The Effect of Soya and Genistein Supplementation on Serum Lipid Profile of Male Dawley Sprague Rat

Abstract

Background: Non-medical therapy is needed to reduce blood lipid levels and prevent atherosclerosis. Foods that contain Isoflavones can improve lipid profiles in the blood.Aim: To determine the effect of soya and genistein supplementation in various doses on total cholesterol, Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Triglycerides in male Sprague-Dawley rats.Methods: 35 male Sprague-Dawley rats aged 6-8 weeks were divided into 7 groups, control group; low, medium, and high doses of soy milk; and low, moderate, and high doses of genistein. The treatment was given orally for 60 days. The control used was mice with standard feed. On the 61st day, blood and hepatic tissue samples were taken and checked for lipid profiles using the Friedewald formula. Statistical analysis was carried out by one-way ANOVA and Tukey's posthoc test and Dunnet test, then regression analysis.Results: There was a significant increase in total cholesterol levels (p <0.05) and  LDL levels in low and moderate doses of soy milk group compared to all groups of genistein. There was no significant differences in HDL levels in soya and genistein groups. There was significant increase in Triglyceride levels in all groups of soy milk and low and moderate doses of Genistein compared to high doses of genistein.Conclusion:  Soya and genistein supplementation had increased effect on the Total Cholesterol, LDL and Triglycerides but no effect on HDL in all groups.