Ameliorate Effect of Ajwa (Phoenix dactylifera) on C-Reactive Protein, Lipid Profile and Cardiac Histopathology in Rabbits

Background: High fat diet causes oxidation of accumulated fat cells which leads to Atherosclerosis. The inflammatory marker C-reactive protein has recently been identified as an independent predictor of future coronary heart disease. The inflammatory marker C-reactive protein has recently been identified as an independent predictor of future coronary heart disease. Present study evaluated the cardioprotective role of Ajwa seed paste on lipid profile and C-reactive protein (CRP) level in rabbits. Methodology: 7 months old rabbits (n=15) for 30 days were kept in animal house school under standard laboratory conditions. Rabbits were divided into three groups (n=5). Group1 served as control group fed basal diet, group 2 fed high fat diet, group 3 fed high fat diet supplemented with 6gm ajwa seed paste. Feed consumption ratio was determined in all groups on daily basis.  Results: Feed consumption ratio showed significant (P>0.05) decrease in group 2and 3 fed high fat diet. In this study, lipid profile (cholesterol, triglyceride, LDL and VLDL) values were increased in group 2 compared to control group. It was found that significant (P>0.05) decrease in the level of bad cholesterol (LDL, VLDL) in group 3 (fed ajwa seed supplemented diet).HDL value showed significant (P>0.05) increase in group 3. HDL is good cholesterol and increased the level of HDL protect against the stroke and heart attack. and increase the level of good cholesterol (HDL).HDL takes the cholesterol from the body and back to liver where liver removes the bad cholesterol. The value of CRP is higher in group 2 due to the consumption of HFD and CRP level in group 3 showed significant (P>0.05) reduction.  Conclusion: It is concluded from present study that ajwa seed paste is beneficial for heart health