The Effect of Tomato and Tomato Paste Supplementation on the Serum Lipids and Lipoproteins Levels in Rats Fed with High Cholesterol Diet

Background: Scientists have shown that consumption of antioxidants can reduce hypercholesterolemia including fruit and vegetables. This study aims to compare the effect of tomato and tomato paste supplementation on the level of serum lipids and lipoproteins in rats fed with high cholesterol diet. Methods: Four groups of rats (10 male rats per group) were enrolled. Control group received basal diet, second group received basal diet and 2% cholesterol (Chol group), third and forth groups received basal diet, 2% cholesterol, tomato and tomato paste respectively (20% of the diet) for a month. Then, serum total cholesterol (TC), high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglyceride (TG) were measured. Results: In Chol group, all lipids except HDL significantly increased compared with the control group. Tomato and tomato paste supplementation decreased TC, LDL and TG levels significantly compared to the Chol group. Tomato paste could decrease lipid levels more in comparison to tomato. Conclusion: Decreases of TC, LDL and TG may be related to tomato antioxidant effects. This finding in human still requires more investigations.