CONSUMPTION OF AWARA FRIED IN THERMALLY ABUSED OIL MAY CAUSE WEIGHT DYSREGULATION, LIVER AND KIDNEY DYSFUNCTIONS MORE IN MALE THAN IN FEMALE WISTAR RATS

Abstract

The consumption of foods fried with thermally abused oils poses significant health risks due to formation of toxic compounds. This study evaluated the health effects of consuming awara snacks fried in thermally abused oil on weight gain, liver, and kidney functions in male and female Wistar rats. Chemical analyses showed that thermally abused oil had higher iodine, peroxide, acid, and saponification values compared to fresh oil. Awara fried in thermally abused oil contained more lipids and carbohydrates but less moisture and protein than that fried in fresh oil. Thirty rats (15 males, 15 females) were divided into six groups: three male groups and three female groups, each receiving either a standard diet alone, a standard diet plus awara fried in fresh oil, or a standard diet plus awara fried in thermally abused oil, over a 10-week period. Rats fed only the standard diet had significantly (p<0.05) higher feed intake compared to those receiving snacks. Both male and female rats consuming awara fried in thermally abused oil exhibited higher percentage weight gain compared to those consuming snacks fried in fresh oil. Male rats fed awara fried in thermally abused oil showed significantly (p<0.05) lower liver and kidney to body weight ratios, significantly (p>0.05) higher serum alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, and lower transaminase activities. Female rats consuming the same diet had reduced ALP activity compared to controls. Most kidney function markers showed no significant changes, except a notable decrease in serum sodium (Na) concentration in the male group consuming snacks fried in thermally abused oil. The study concludes that thermal abuse of frying oils deteriorates their quality, and regular consumption of foods fried in such oils could contribute to excessive weight gain and organ damage, particularly affecting male rats. It recommends