Gastric Ulceration in Albino Wistar Rats Following Chronic Consumption of Lime
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Abstract
Background: Gastric ulceration is a common health problem caused by a defect in the factors that protect the gastric mucosa or an excess of those that damage it. Lifestyle and diet have been associated with the development of gastric ulcers. The use of lime juice with its high acidic content in cuisines and as a remedy for various health conditions is a common practice. This study was aimed at demonstrating the possible effects of long-term consumption of lime juice concentrate on basal gastric acid secretion, gastric mucous output, pepsin concentration, and ulcer formation in Wistar rats.
Methods: Ten (10) adult male Wistar rats weighing between 160 and 180g were used for the experiments. The rats were randomly divided into 2 groups of five (5) rats each. Group one (1) was the control group and was administered 1ml of distilled water daily; group two (2) was the test group and was administered 1ml of lime juice concentrate daily for 28 days. Gastric acid secretion, pepsin secretion, gastric mucous output, and ulcer formation were evaluated.
Results: The results showed that the mean basal acid secretion was significantly higher in the test group, compared with the control (p<0.05). The mean ulcer score was significantly higher in the test group compared with the control (p<0.05). The mean gastric pepsin concentration was significantly higher in the test group compared with the control(p<0.05). The ulcer score was significantly higher in the test group(p<0.05).
Conclusion: In conclusion, long-term consumption of lime juice predisposes Wistar rats to the development of gastric ulcers.
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