Effect of Chlorella vulgaris on glucose metabolism in Wistar rats fed high fat diet.

Abstract

The aim of this study was to examine the effect of Chlorella vulgaris on glucose metabolism in rats fed a high fat diet. Sixty 6-week-old male Wistar rats were divided into two groups: normal diet group (N group) and high fat diet group (H group); then the rats in each group were further divided into three subgroups and fed either Chlorella-free diets or diets with 5% (C5) or 10% (C10) (wt/wt) Chlorella for 9 weeks. Serum leptin concentration was significantly lower in the NC10 and HC10 groups than in the N and H groups. The fasting glucose concentration and homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance of the HC10 group were significantly lower than those of the H group. Glutamate transporter 4 protein expression was significantly higher in the HC10 group than the H group. In conclusion, 10% Chlorella intake was more effective for blood glucose regulation than 5% Chlorella intake in rats fed a high fat diet. Chlorella intake may prevent insulin resistance in Wistar rats fed a high fat diet.