EFFECT OF FISH OIL AND VARIOUS PREPARATIONS OF COCONUT OIL ON BODY 1NEIGHT AND SERUM LIPID PROFILE I N RATS

Abstract

Effect of fish oil (FO) and various preparations of coconut oil viz., copra oil/RBD coconut oil (CO), seasoned coconut oil (SCO) and virgin coconut oil (VCO) was evaluated on body weight and serum lipid profile in rats. Significant decrease and increase in body weight was observed in VCO and FO fed rats respectively whereas, CO and SCO did not show any significant variation, when administered for a period of three months. Coconut oil administered rats showed significant increase in serum triacylglycerol (TAG) and VLDL, significant decrease in LDL and no change in total lipids (TL), total cholesterol (TC) and HDL levels. All the lipid parameters understudy were significantly increased in SCO fed rats whereas, VCO significantly increased HDL and decreased LDL, with little change in the levels of TL, TC, TAG and VLDL. Fish oil administration significantly increased TAC-~ while TL and LDL decreased with no significant variation in the levels of TC, HDL and VLDL. Except SCO, all other oils significantly increased HDL/LDL ratio, being highest in VCO fed group. Comparison between various oil fed rats, revealed a desirable effect with VCO and the effect was comparable to or even superior to that of FO administration. The present study recommends the consumption of VCO due to its favorable effects on serum lipid profile and body weight

Keywords

• copra oil
• fish oil
• rats
• seasoned coconut oil
• virgin coconut oil