Effects of freeze-dried Fragaria x ananassa powder on alloxan-induced diabetic complications in Wistar rats

Strawberries contain antioxidant phytochemicals, which have been shown to beneficial against inflammation, cardiovascular disease, cancer, obesity, neurodegeneration, hyperglycaemia and associated diabetic complications. Freeze-dried strawberry powder (FSP) is effective in controlling metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular risk factors. The present investigation was designed to evaluate the effect of FSP on alloxan-induced diabetes in rats. Diabetes was induced in male Wistar albino rats by intraperitoneal injection of alloxan monohydrate (150 mg/kg bw), and treatment with FSP (700 mg/day for 45 days) was started 48 h after alloxan injection. Blood glucose, insulin, C-peptide, haemoglobin, renal function markers (urea, uric acid and creatinine) and enzyme markers (aspartate and alanine transaminases and alkaline phosphatase) were assayed with suitable methods. Animals given alloxan had significant body weight loss, poor glucose tolerance and increased blood glucose with concomitant decreases in insulin, C-peptide and haemoglobin values, and significant (p < 0.05) changes in the levels of renal function markers and enzyme activities. Oral administration of FSP for 45 days significantly (p < 0.05) reverted the body weight loss, hyperglycaemia, biochemical parameters, enzyme activities and insulin levels to near normal levels. FSP can revert alloxan-induced diabetes and its complications. The antioxidant properties of the fruit probably play a major role in the observed changes.