Effect of apple consumption on lipid profile and oxidative stress indices among hyperlipidemic men

This study was conducted to evaluate the effect of apple consumption on lipid profile and oxidative stress indices among hyperlipidemic men. We performed an experimental study on 46 hyperlipidemic men [Total Cholesterol (TC)=200-240 mg/dl, Triglyceride(TG)=150-350mg/dl] aged 30-50 years who were randomly divided into two (apple and control) groups. The apple group (23 subjects) received 300 gr of whole apple per day (Golden delicious) for 8 weeks. Control group (23 subjects) had the regular dietary pattern for the same period of time. Blood samples were collected at baseline and after intervention (after 8 weeks) and analyzed for serum TG, TC, LDL-C, HDL-C and plasma oxidative stress indices of Malondialdehyde (MDA) and Total Antioxidant Capacity (TAC) level. Before study, education level and family size were compared in both the groups. Before and after intervention, physical activity and dietary intake were compared between the two groups. Both total polyphenol and total fiber in the consumed apples were measured. Total polyphenol and total fiber were 485 mg/kg fresh apple and 4.03 gr/100 gr fresh apple, respectively. Chi square and t-tests with SPSS V.16 were used for data analysis. After 8 weeks, mean different TG concentrations increased significantly in apple group as compared to control group; however, no significant differences were observed in regards to TC, LDL-C, HDL-C, MDA and TAC level between the two groups. Consumption of Golden delicious apple may increase serum TG concentration in hyperlipidemic men. However, we need more studies to study the effect of Golden delicious apple on serum TC, LDL-C, HDL-C concentrations and plasma MDA and TAC indices.