Influence of coconut oil, fish oil and polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched diets on the health status of albino rats
Influence of coconut oil, fish oil and polyunsaturated fatty acid enriched diets on the health status of albino rats
Date
2010
Authors
Mathew, M.
Mathew, S.
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Society of Fisheries Technologists (India)
Abstract
Contrary to popular belief, fats and oils are an important part of
nutrition in a healthy diet. Healthful sources of fat contribute to our energy
stores and act as excellent lubricants, lubing up our digestive tract and
providing protective insulation to our organs as well as allowing for the
absorption of fat-soluble vitamin A, vitamin D, vitamin E, and vitamin K
(He, 2009). Fish oils are rich in the fat soluble vitamins and they contain
antioxidant hydrocarbons like squalene and immune boosting compounds
like 1-0-alkyl glycerol ethers and are blessed with the long chain
polyunsaturated fatty acids especially the n-3 series eg. EPA, DHA (Enas,
1996). These long chain n3 PUFAs have been shown to reduce
cardiovascular risk factors and reduce symptoms in rheumatoid arthritis.
Fish oil helps in reducing the risk of heart related disorders as it is a
powerful anti-inflammatory and can help reduce the risk from the Creactive
proteins (Ciubotaru et al., 2003). Secondly, the omega 3 fatty acids
help to prevent clumping and stickiness of the blood. Thus, blood can flow
more easily in the arteries reducing the probability of heart attacks or
strokes. Fish oil also helps to prevent plaque build-up inside the arteries.
The association between fish consumption and risk of cardiovascular
disease (CVD) has been extensively studied (Virtanen et al., 2008;
Mozaffarian et al., 2008; Leaf et al., 2008; Rule et at., 1996). Although
the results are inconsistent, the majority of studies are in favour of the
cardio protective effects of fish consumption. Dietary n3 PUFA of marine
origin rich in EPA and DHA are reported to be more effective than
vegetable oils in decreasing plasma triglyceride (TG) and cholesterol
concentration.
Description
Keywords
Coconut oil, fish oil, palm oil, antioxida
Citation
Proceedings of the National Seminar on Conservation and Sustainability of Coastal Living Resources of India, 1-3 December 2009, Cochin, ed.by Meenakumari, B. et.al 635-654