Antiatherosclerotic effects of fish extract feeding in rabbits

Antiatherosclerotic effect of Lipotab Forte in cholesterol-fed rabbits

The effect of Lipotab Forte, a new polypharmaceutical herbal formulation developed on the principles of the Unani system of medicine, was investigated on the progression of atherosclerosis in cholesterol fed rabbits. Retardation of the progression of atherosclerosis was observed in animals treated with Lipotah Forte. The results were related to changes in the cholesterol content of aorta from the same animal. Blood cholesterol and triglyceride levels were greatly elevated in all rabbits on cholesterol feeding, but were significantly decreased by Lipotab Forte treatment. Lipotab Forte treatment also lowered aorta Thiobarbituric acid reactive substance (TBARS) levels from 79.72 (+/-5.70) to 24.9 (+/-2.04) nmol/g of wet tissue and reduced hepatic cholesterol significantly in hypercholesterolemic rabbits.

Omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the insulin resistance syndrome. Lipid and lipoprotein metabolism and atherosclerosis

Dietary fatty acids appear to be of significant importance for several of the most-common diseases in modern societies. To obtain more knowledge about the health consequences of dietary fatty acids, we depend upon a better understanding of the mechanisms of action of these fatty acids in vivo. With regard to the IRS, omega-3 PUFA may exert beneficial effects upon many of the associated pathophysiological metabolic changes. Omega-3 PUFA reduce fasting and postprandial TG, may improve insulin sensitivity (as shown in animal experiments), decrease platelet and leukocyte reactivity, alter immunological functions, and may slightly decrease blood pressure. Omega-3 PUFA may also beneficially influence vessel wall characteristics and blood rheology. Furthermore, both types of PUFA (omega-3 and omega-6) have been shown to inhibit cardiac arrhythmias in animals. The role of omega-3 PUFA in blood clotting and fibrinolysis still remains controversial, whereas omega-6 fatty acids may lead to increased oxidation of lipoproteins. Regardless of the effects on LDL oxidizability, both types of PUFA have shown beneficial effects on the development of atherosclerosis. As yet, little is known about the effect of specific omega-6 fatty acids with respect to the IRS. Potential adverse effects of dietary PUFA must not be neglected, but should be viewed in light of the beneficial effects of these agents.