Monosodium glutamate alter hepatic functions, redox potential and lipid metabolism: Omega 3 fatty acids ameliorative intervention

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) toxicity is fast becoming a global health challenge due to the increase in its consumption as a food additive. This study investigated the effect of consumption of MSG and treatment with graded doses of omega 3 fatty acids (ω-3). Forty-eight male Wistar rats (n=8) grouped into six; control, MSG, MSG + Low dose of ω-3 (LD ω-3); MSG + High dose of ω-3 (HD ω-3), LD ω-3, and HD ω-3 were used for this study. MSG was administered at 4 g/L/day in their drinking water for 6 weeks, while ω-3 was administered at low and high doses of 100 and 300 mg/kg BW, p.o. respectively for 4 weeks. Results revealed that administration of MSG induced imbalance in lipid metabolism, oxidative stress and hepatic dysfunction. These were revealed by significant decreases in TG, HDL-C, CAT, GSH, albumin and total protein; but, significant increases in LDL-C, MDA, AST, ALT, ALP, and total bilirubin (TB), compared to control group. Administration of graded doses of ω-3 following treatment with MSG was characterized with significant reductions in ALT, ALP, TB and MDA. The administration of ω-3 showed no effects on the antioxidant indices. Conclusively, LD ω-3 is a potent ameliorative supplement which can be administered after pre-exposure to MSG.