Effect of vitamin C supplementation on the development of metabolic syndrome in male Swiss mice
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34117/bjdv11n4-058Keywords:
metabolic syndrome, MSG, vitamin C, nitric oxide, cardiovascular parametersAbstract
Modern lifestyles-characterized by poor diet, sedentary behavior, and stress-are linked to chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome (MetS). MetS is defined by a cluster of cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, hyperglycemia, and dyslipidemia (elevated LDL and reduced HDL), often associated with insulin resistance. Recent studies have explored the protective effects of antioxidant supplementation, including vitamin C, on MetS. However, its therapeutic use remains debated, warranting further investigation. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of oral vitamin C supplementation on the development of MetS induced by monosodium glutamate (MSG) in neonatal Swiss mice. Newborns received subcutaneous MSG (4 mg/g body weight) or saline for five days. At 30 days of age, male mice were assigned to six groups (n =10/group): MSG-CTL (untreated), MSG-Vit.C (vitamin C treated), MSG-water (water treated), SAL-CTL (saline control), SAL-Vit.C, and SAL-water. MS development was assessed by measuring blood pressure, Lee index, and blood glucose levels. At the end of treatment, plasma nitric oxide (NO) levels, cardiovascular parameters, and adiposity were evaluated. MSG-treated mice showed increased Lee index, hypertension, and hyperglycemia compared to saline controls. Vitamin C supplementation prevented these alterations, maintaining physiological parameters similar to health controls. Additionally, vitamin C significantly reduced visceral fat accumulation and NO production. These findings suggest that vitamin C may exert a protective effect against MetS and support its potential as a preventive strategy in metabolic disorders.
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