Brassica rapa Juice Decreases Lipids and Glucose Levels with Improved Atherogenic Index in Rats

Stroke and coronary artery diseases are the primary causes of death among people with diabetes mellitus. Oxidative stress is one of the major causes of diabetic pathophysiology, while sulfur-containing compounds are vital in the treatment of oxidative-induced disorders. Turnip is rich in glucosinolates which are sulfur-containing compounds. Therefore current investigation focuses on the antidiabetic and hypolipidemic effects of the fresh juice of turnip. The juice of turnip was given through the oral route in three doses i.e. 4 ml/kg, 8 ml/kg, and 16 ml/kg according to body weight. Hyperglycemia and hyperlipidemia were induced by intraperitoneal injection of Alloxan. At the end of the experiment, the livers of the animals were randomly removed for histopathological examination. Serum lipid profile and blood glucose levels were tested along with atherogenic indices (Atherogenic index of plasma, Castelli’s Risk Index, and Atherogenic coefficient) Microscopic examination of hepatic tissues revealed reduced intralobular inflammation. Whereas blood glucose levels, total cholesterol, triglycerides, and low-density lipoproteins were significantly decreased, high-density lipoproteins were significantly increased. Hence from the results of the present study, it may be concluded that turnip reduces blood glucose and lipid levels. It also improved atherogenic index showing cardio-protection and reduced liver inflammation exhibiting hepatic protection.