Effect of Vernonia amygdalina supplemented diet on selected tissues function in diet-induced obese rats

The present study investigated the impact of Vernonia amygdalina (VA) supplemented diet on blood parameters, and liver and kidney functions in diet-induced obese rats. VA supplemented diet (5 and 15%) was fed for 4 weeks and compared to orlistat (5.14 mg/kg b.w., p.o.), an anti-obesity drug. Full blood counts and some biochemical indices were measured at the end of the study. Platelet count which decreased in obese rats (56.17%, P< 0.05), was increased by orlistat (40.70%), 5% (51.34%) and 15% (97.63%, P < 0.05) VA diets, respectively. Also, 15% VA diet only, lowered leukocyte counts by 31.75% (P < 0.05), indicative of anti-inflammation. Obesity-induced hepatotoxicity indicated by elevated serum alanine amino transferase (32.58%, P < 0.05), aspartate amino transferase (19.69%) activities and lowered AST:ALT ratio (14.62%) were respectively ameliorated. However, both treatments failed to up regulate the hitherto decreased total protein level (29.84%, P < 0.05), but modulated the altered albumin levels. Depressed sodium level in obese rats (58.24%, P < 0.05), was upregulated (P < 0.05). Orlistat and 15% VA diet only, respectively increased chloride (P < 0.05) and calcium (38.15%, P < 0.05 and 22.00%). The depressed urea level (58.48%, P < 0.05) was partially resolved, but null effect on increased creatinine (P < 0.05). VA diet may exert anti-inflammatory, hepatopretective and nephrotoprotective actions in obesity.   Key words: Vernonia amygdalina Del., diet-induced obesity, liver function, kidney function, haematological indices.