Key Findings:
In this research, the effects of flaxseed on lipid profiles of rats treated with steroid hormones (testosterone) which are used to enhance athletic performance. Similar to endogenous hormones, synthetic steroid hormones also have anabolic and androgenic effects. Testosterone reduces serum HDL which was also seen in casein and flax groups in comparison with a casein control group. LDL levels were higher in the casein group compared to the flax group. The flax fed group also showed lower triglyceride and cholesterol levels than the control group. These results suggest that flaxseed may lower lipids that can be elevated as a result of testosterone (steroid hormone) supplementation and thus reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
ABSTRACT:
Background: The chronic use of steroid hormones can lead to alterations in the lipid profile such as an increase in LDL and decrease in HDL levels. The effect of flaxseed on lipid profiles has been widely investigated. Aim: Evaluate the lipid profile of adult male Wistar rats fed with flax based meals and submitted to androgenic hyper stimulation. Material and Methods: Forty Wistar rats were divided into 4 groups of 10 animals: the Control group (CG); Flax group (FG) fed a flaxseed flour based meal; Induced group (IG); and the Induced group (IGF) that was fed a flaxseed flour-based meal. The induction was done by using silicone pellets filled with testosterone propionate (1mg), sealed with a surgical adhesive and substituted every 4 weeks. Results: Triglycerides and HDL cholesterol were significantly lower in the experimental groups. The FG and IGF showed significantly lower levels of cholesterol than the other groups. Regarding LDL levels, the IG showed significantly higher concentrations than the others groups. Conclusions: The flaxseed has a relevant effect on the lipid profile of animals submitted to androgenic hyper stimulation. (Authors abstract)