Histological Studies of the Heart and Biochemical Changes Due to the Perinatal Consumption of Hibiscus sabdariffa (Flavonoid-rich Extract) to Feed-restricted Rats on Offspring

Experiments using animal models have indicated that maternal diet during the perinatal period can drastically impact the life-long susceptibility of offspring to chronic disease. This study aims to determine the impact of perinatal consumption of Hibiscus sabdariffa to feed restriction on offspring heart development.  In this study, we used 25 pregnant rats. They were grouped as follows: group 1 (normal control), group 2 (70% feed restriction), group 3 (70% feed restriction and 5mg/kg body weight of H. sabdariffa administration), group 4 (70% feed restriction, and 10mg/kg body weight of H. sabdariffa administration), and group 5 (70% feed restriction and 20mg/kg body weight of H. sabdariffa administration). Dams were only allowed to nurse 8 pups. Pups were weaned and observed daily for puberty onset. Blood samples were collected to determine serum levels of creatine kinase, hydrogen peroxide, and malondialdehyde. The hearts were excised, weighed, and prepared for histological examination.  The result showed a significant increase in absolute and relative weights of the heart with alterations in the histology of the heart. There was a significant change in serum levels of creatine kinase and malondialdehyde. Maternal consumption of H. sabdariffa during pregnancy and lactation may increase the development of cardiovascular diseases in offspring during postnatal growth.