Effect of amaranth seeds in diet on oxidative status in plasma and selected tissues of high fructose-fed rats

The aim of this study was to assess the influence of amaranth seeds in different doses, under conditions of oxidative stress induced by dietary fructose, on antioxidant status of selected rat tissues, erythrocytes and plasma. Fructose administration caused oxidative stress that was manifested by the increase in plasma malondialdehyde and by the decrease in the enzymatic antioxidant activity. Co-administration of amaranth seeds influenced the oxidative stress, as was evidenced by decreasing malondialdehyde in plasma and changing the activities of antioxidant enzymes (erythrocyte superoxide dismutase, catalase, and plasma glutathione peroxidase). Our findings demonstrate that amaranth seeds can act as a moderate protective agent against fructose-induced changes. Our results suggest that the antioxidative system of plasma, heart and lungs is more efficient when amaranth seeds are present in the diet. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.