Abstract
This study was designed to examine the effect of almond-included diets on sexual behavior, arginase activity, and pro-inflammatory markers in diabetic male rats. Forty-two male rats were divided into seven groups (n = 6). Diabetes was triggered via a single dose intraperitoneal injection of streptozotocin (50 mg/kg). Diabetes was confirmed 72 hr after STZ induction, and animals with blood glucose ≥ 250 mg/dl were considered diabetic and used for the experiment. The effects of almond-supplemented diets on glucose level, sexual function, NF-κB and TNF-α levels, arginase and purinergic enzyme activities, and levels of oxidative stress markers were assessed. A significant decrease in sexual activities with a simultaneous increase in pro-inflammatory markers, arginase and purinergic enzyme activities as well as TBARS and ROS levels was observed in diabetic rats. Interestingly, treatment with supplemented diets ameliorated the effects. Conclusively, intake of almonds could prevent the risk of erectile dysfunction in diabetic subjects. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Intake of diets rich in fruits, nuts, and vegetables has been reported to reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome. Here, we investigate the effect of dietary inclusion of almond fruit on sexual behavior, arginase activity, oxidative stress, and pro-inflammatory markers in diabetic male rats. Interestingly, data generated from this work reveal that the supplemented diets enhanced sexual activities, and reduced oxidative stress and pro-inflammatory markers in diabetic male rats. Thus, consumption of almond (drupe and seed) could prevent/reduce the erectile dysfunction in individual with diabetes.
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