Coconut kernel-derived proteins enhance hypolipidemic and antioxidant activity in alloxan-induced diabetic rats

Impaired lipid levels and oxidative stress are indicative of malfunction of endogenous antioxidant capacity. The aim of this study was to determine the effect of coconut kernel protein (CKP) on the lipid peroxides and antioxidant enzyme activities in diabetic rats. Diabetes was induced prior to feeding by injecting a single dose of alloxan (150 mg/kg body weight) intraperitoneally. CKP (8% w/w) was administered to these rats along with a semi-synthetic diet for 45 days. After the experimental period, peroxide products and antioxidant enzyme activities were determined. Results show that CKP maintained the antioxidant enzyme activities and levels of peroxides to the normal levels in treated group compared to diabetic rats. This study clearly show that CKP has potential effect in lowering oxidative stress associated with diabetes. This beneficial effect of CKP may be due to the high amount of biologically potent arginine present in it.