Probiotic Kefir Improves Renal Disorders in Ovariectomized Female SHR with High Fructose Intake-Induced Metabolic...

Area of Science:

• Endocrinology
• Nephrology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Postmenopausal women often experience metabolic syndrome (MetS) comorbidities.
• Ovarian hormone deficiency exacerbates MetS-related health issues, particularly impacting renal function.
• Metabolic syndrome and hormone deficiency can lead to significant kidney damage.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the potential protective effects of kefir on renal function in an experimental model of MetS and ovarian hormone deficiency.
• To evaluate how kefir influences metabolic parameters and kidney health markers in this specific rat model.
• To determine if kefir can mitigate fructose-induced deleterious effects on kidney function.

Main Methods:

• Young female spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR) underwent ovariectomy (OVX).
• Rats were divided into four groups: OVX control, OVX with fructose, OVX with kefir, and OVX with kefir and fructose.
• Kefir and/or fructose were administered for 8 weeks, and various physiological and biochemical parameters were measured.

Main Results:

• Fructose-fed groups showed increased weight, visceral fat, and fasting blood glucose.
• Kefir partially improved glucose tolerance and reduced fasting blood glucose.
• Kefir administration in fructose-fed rats improved renal blood flow, decreased renal resistance, and reduced microalbuminuria, despite no change in systemic blood pressure.

Conclusions:

• Kefir demonstrates protective effects on renal function in a model of metabolic syndrome and ovarian hormone deficiency.
• Kefir may counteract the detrimental impact of fructose on kidney health by improving nitric oxide bioavailability and reducing oxidative stress.
• These findings suggest kefir as a potential dietary intervention for managing kidney health in at-risk populations.