Hypolipidemic and antioxidant effi cacy of dehydrated onion in experimental rats

Hypolipidemic and antioxidant potency of a
dehydrated onion product was evaluated in experimental
rats maintained for 6 weeks at 5 and 10% dietary levels.
Serum cholesterol especially low-density lipoprotein was
signifi cantly reduced by dietary dehydrated onion in hypercholesterolemic
rats. This was associated with an increase
in high density lipoprotein cholesterol. Blood triglyceride
concentration in hypercholesterolemic rats was lower in
onion supplemented diet group. Glutathione, ascorbic acid
and α-tocopherol in the blood of hypercholesterolemic
rats were higher in onion treatment, while lipid peroxides
were lower. Hepatic α-tocopherol concentration was higher
in rats maintained on onion diets, while lipid peroxides
were reduced. Thus, this study has proved signifi cant
cholesterol lowering and antioxidant effect of dehydrated
onion product.