Influence of sesame oil on serum and liver lipids and tocopherol levels in rats

Effect of sesame oil (SO) and its blends with sunflower and groundnut oil on growth, serum and liver lipid levels in rats was investigated. SO feeding did not alter the food intake, gain in body weight but significantly increased food efficiency ratio (FER) and organ weights compared to other groups. The serum total cholesterol, HDL-cholesterol, VLDL + LDL - cholesterol, cholesterol ester and triglyceride concentration were lower in SO fed animals. Similarly, liver cholesterol and triglyceride levels were also significantly reduced in SO fed animals. The serum and liver lipid peroxides were significantly lower in SO fed animals. Liver alpha-tocopherol content was significantly higher in SO fed animals. This study showed that SO feeding did not affect the growth, but significantly lowered the serum and liver lipid levels compared to other oils. The VLDL + LDL - cholesterol which is considered as bad cholesterol was significantly reduced upon SO feeding. It also showed that SO reduces lipid peroxides and increases the alpha-tocopherol content in the tissues. It may be concluded that SO may be useful in decreasing the risk of CHD (coronary heart disease). It also increases the tocopherol content and plays a crucial role in reducing lipid peroxidation.