Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
1. Nutrition and Food Sciences Dept., Faculty of Home Economics, Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt.
2
2Therapeutic Nutrition Department, Faculty of Nutrition Science. Helwan University, Cairo, Egypt
10.21608/enj.2025.448096
Abstract
ABSTRACT
This study investigated the protective effects of germinated millet grain against lipid profile disturbances and oxidative stress induced by lead acetate in male rats. Thirty-five Sprague Dawley rats were assigned to five groups: a negative control, a lead-exposed positive control, and three groups received diets with 20%, 30% and 40% germinated millet powder respectively. Chemical analysis showed that germination improved millet’s nutritional value by increasing protein and carbohydrates, and reducing fat, fiber, and ash. It also increased the levels of total phenols and flavonoids, and enhanced antioxidant activity. Lead exposure significantly impaired feed intake, weight gain, feed efficiency, and organ weights. These effects were alleviated in a dose-dependent manner with millet supplementation, with the 40% group showing the greatest improvement. Lead caused dyslipidemia—elevated cholesterol, triglycerides, LDL-c, VLDL-c, atherogenic index, and reduced HDL-c. Germinated millet significantly improved these parameters, indicated hypolipidemic and cardioprotective effects. Oxidative stress, marked by decreased catalase and increased malondialdehyde, was also observed in lead-exposed rats. Germinated millet-fed groups showed restored antioxidant status in a dose-dependent manner, likely due to its phenolic compounds. In conclusion, germinated millet grain demonstrated protective effects against lead-induced dyslipidemia and oxidative stress may be throughout improving lipid metabolism, boosting antioxidant defenses, and supporting liver and kidney function, suggesting its potential as a functional food against heavy metal toxicity.
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