Effects of Smoothies on Semen Parameters, Nitric Oxide and Total Protein in Male Wistar Rats

Abstract

Fruits are very important to humans and they have several essential nutrients that are important to improve their overall health. The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of smoothies (banana, apple and pineapple) on semen parameters and nitric oxide in male Wistar rats. Thirty (30) animals weighing 130kg to 180kg were randomly selected into 6 groups with 5 animals per group. Group 1 received 5mls of distilled water, group 2 received 1ml/kg (low dose) of smoothies, group 3 received 2ml/kg (medium dose), group 4 received 3ml/kg (high dose), group 5 received 400mg/kg of monosodium glutamate, group 6 received 400mg/kg of monosodium-glutamate and 3ml/kg (high dose) of smoothies co-administered. Administration was carried out for 14 days and on the 15th day, the animals were sacrificed, semen was harvested and 5ml blood was collected via cardiac puncture. Statistical analysis was done using ANOVA and expressed as Mean±SEM. Statistically P < 0.05 was said to be significant. SPSS version 26 was used. Results from the study showed significant increase in sperm morphology and sperm volume and decrease in sperm count and sperm viability. There was significant increase in the level of nitric oxide dose-dependent and thus could aid erection in male