M Mohammad Shirazi , F Taleban, M Sabet Kassaii, A Abadi , M Vafa, Kh Zare, F Seyed Ahmadian ,
Volume 3, Issue 1 (9-2007)
Abstract
Background and Objectives: There are conflicting data on the effects of different types of fat on aortic atherosclerosis. This study used Wister rats to compare the atherogenic effects of a standard diet with a diet containing fish oil and another diet containing mixed oils (typical of the current consumption pattern in Iran).
Methods: Thirty female Wistar rats were randomly assigned to three diet groups: a standard diet (containing soy bean-oil as the only dietary fat), a diet containing fish oil and another diet which contained mixed oils and was designed on the basis of the current fat consumption pattern in Iran (butter, hydrogenated vegetable oil and sunflower oil). Mothers in each group were fed the same diet during pregnancy and lactation the litters were also weaned onto the same diet. Aortic samples were taken from the offspring at the time of weaning and puberty. Data were analyzed using SPSS software Kruskal-Wallis test was applied for comparison among groups.
Results: Rats that were fed soy bean oil showed less extensive fatty streaks and intimal thickening of aorta on weaning and at puberty. Rats fed fish oil and mixed oils showed more atherosclerosis lesions compared to those receiving soy bean oil.
Conclusions: It seems that diets with an omega-3 to omega-6 ratio of 0.6 can enhance aortic atherosclerosis. Diets with an Iranian fat consumption pattern also increase aortic atherosclerotic lesions because they contain substantial amounts of saturated fat.
