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Access Type

WSU Access

Date of Award

January 2011

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

M.S.

Department

Nutrition and Food Science

First Advisor

Smiti Gupta

Abstract

Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) risk is characterized by high LDL cholesterol and decreased HDL cholesterol. CVD is also affected by hypercholesterolemia and various dietary factors. PAZ has been shown to have some beneficial outcomes in reducing the risk of CVD. It was the aim of this study to determine the effects of PAZ and its sub-fractions on cholesterol levels in the hamster model by analyzing various lipid parameters. The hamsters were fed a high fat saturated, coconut based diet and concurrently given PAZ and its sub-fractions as drinking fluids. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL cholesterol, phospholipids, and Cholesterol Ester levels were measured using obtained plasma from the hamsters. Particularly, the PF3 and PF4 groups showed favorable results. Total cholesterol was reduced and HDL cholesterol increased in these two groups of animals. The HDL and LDL particle sizes were also measured during this study. Again, the PF3 and PF4 groups showed significant results; the diameter of the HDL particle was bigger in size when compared to the other groups. Results from this study suggest that the PF3 and particularly PF4 sub-fractions of PAZ have beneficial outcomes in reducing total cholesterol and increasing HDL cholesterol levels. This could further show us a decreased risk of CVD in the future and overall wellbeing.

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