High caloric carbohydrate diets promote disturbed metabolic milieu and induce renal injury in albino rats

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Carbohydrates are essential components for a healthy diet; however, they have been found to be harmful if consumed in excess. Type of carbohydrates consumed has an imperative influence on health according to how rapidly they elevate serum glucose level besides its amount as well. Thus, the rationale of the current study is to compare the influence of two different types of high caloric carbohydrate diets, namely: starch and sucrose, on glycemic control and consequently, affection on the metabolic milieu, pancreatic and renal architecture. METHODS: Adult male albino rats were divided into 3groups: Control group, starch group, and sucrose group. Food intake, body mass index (BMI) and visceral fat amount were estimated. Serum lipid profile, total antioxidants (TA), malondialdehyde (MDA), insulin resistance and sensitivity tests (HOMA-IR, HOMA-β), interleukins (IL-6, IL-10), pancreatic amylase, urea, creatinine, and adiponectin/leptin ratio were measured. Histopathological examination of pancreas and kidney with H&E stain, Masson’s trichrome stain, and immune-staining for Nuclear Factor Erythroid-2-Related Factor-2 (Nrf-2) were assessed. RESULTS: Starch and sucrose groups showed significant higher food intake, BMI, visceral fat, pro-inflammatory markers, pancreatic amylase, insulin resistance, disturbed renal function and dyslipidemia, and deficient anti-inflammatory markers and insulin sensitivity compared to control group with disturbed pancreatic and renal integrity. Starch group showed the significantly worst results. CONCLUSION: Though carbohydrates are an essential nutrient in everyday diet, the type and amount of carbohydrates consumed should be considered carefully. KEYWORDS: High carbohydrate diet, sucrose, starch, glycemic index, insulin sensitivity