Effect of a high carbohydrate and a high protein diets on liver function

This study was performed to evaluate liver function during consumption of a high carbohydrate or a high protein diets for two weeks. Adult male rats were divided into three groups; group (1) was fed on standard pellets, group (2) was fed on 25% standard pellets and 75% high complex carbohydrate diet, and group (3) was fed on 25% standard pellets and 75% high protein diet. Throughout the trial, body weight, food and water intake were measured. Liver was evaluated using biochemical methods and histological examination. Results showed an increase in body weight gain [mean(gm)±SE] in group 2 (35.20±13.17), and a significant decrease in group 3 (11.25 ± 4.12) compared to values of the control group (28.80±1.72). Food intake was increased significantly in groups 2&3 compared to group 1, whereas water intake was decreased to non significant statistical values in groups 2&3. The activities of the liver enzymes ALT (111.2±31.53), and AST (157.8±55.92) were increased to a significant values in group 3 in comparison with the control values of ALT (55.57±9.8) and AST (87±7.07). Bilirubin values declined significantly in both of the experimental groups. Histological examination of the liver showed an intense PAS staining and glycogen content in group 2 and a light PAS staining and dispersed glycogen content in group 3. In most H &E stained liver sections of group 3 there were vacuolated cells around the central vein. Moreover in group 3, thin sections stained with toluidine blue showed lipid deposition in hepatocytes around the central vein. These results suggest that a protein rich diet may cause harmful alterations in liver function and structure. Funded by University of Qatar.