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Flaxseed reduces plasma cholesterol and atherosclerotic lesion formation in ovariectomized Golden Syrian hamsters
Edralin A Lucas1, Stanley A Lightfoot, Lisa J Hammond
1Department of Nutritional Sciences, Oklahoma State University, 416 Human Environmental Sciences, Stillwater, OK 74078, USA.
Background:
Dietary modification contributes significantly in reducing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors including lowering cholesterol and atherosclerosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of flaxseed, a rich source of lignans, alpha-linolenic acid and soluble fiber mucilage, on the prevention of ovariectomy-induced rise in total cholesterol and atherosclerotic lesions.
Methods:
Seventy-two 6-month-old female Golden Syrian hamsters were either ovariectomized (ovx) or sham-operated (sham) and randomly assigned to six groups (n = 12): sham, ovx, or ovx plus either 17beta-estradiol (E(2), 10 microg/kg body weight) or semi-purified diet adjusted for macronutrients and fiber to contain one of the three doses of flaxseed (7.5, 15, or 22.5%) for 120 days.
Results:
Ovariectomy significantly elevated plasma total-, HDL-, and free-cholesterol concentrations. Similar to estrogen, all doses of flaxseed were effective in preventing the ovx-induced rise in plasma total cholesterol. Triglyceride concentrations were significantly higher in the flax-fed hamsters. There were no significant differences in plasma non-HDL- and esterified-cholesterol among the treatment groups. Ovariectomy also increased the number of hamsters with lesions and the aortic fatty streak area. All three doses of flaxseed reduced the fatty streak area and the incidence of lesions to levels similar to the sham group.
Conclusion:
The findings of this study show that flaxseed is beneficial in reducing plasma cholesterol and plaque formation induced by ovarian hormone deficiency.
Insights
Flaxseed consumption effectively reduces high cholesterol and atherosclerotic lesions caused by ovarian hormone deficiency. This dietary modification offers a natural approach to managing cardiovascular disease risk factors.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular research
- Nutritional science
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Dietary modifications are crucial for managing cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk factors like high cholesterol and atherosclerosis.
- Flaxseed, rich in lignans, alpha-linolenic acid, and soluble fiber, is investigated for its potential cardioprotective effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of flaxseed on preventing elevated cholesterol and atherosclerotic lesions following ovariectomy-induced hormonal changes.
Main Methods:
- Seventy-two female hamsters underwent ovariectomy (ovx) or sham surgery.
- Groups received either 17beta-estradiol or flaxseed at 7.5%, 15%, or 22.5% of their diet for 120 days.
Main Results:
- Ovariectomy increased total, HDL, and free cholesterol; flaxseed, similar to estrogen, prevented this rise.
- Flaxseed significantly reduced atherosclerotic lesions and fatty streak areas.
- Triglyceride levels were elevated in flaxseed-fed groups, with no changes in non-HDL or esterified cholesterol.
Conclusions:
- Flaxseed demonstrates significant benefits in lowering plasma cholesterol and mitigating plaque formation associated with ovarian hormone deficiency.
- These findings highlight flaxseed as a valuable dietary component for cardiovascular health, particularly in contexts of hormonal imbalance.
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