Effects of Nigerian processed cassava flake (Garri) on fasting blood glucose and some physiological markers in male Wistar rats

Garri, made from processed cassava (Manihot esculenta Crantz), is a widely consumed dish in West Africa, especially in Nigeria.Although it is an important dietary source of carbohydrate, there are reports of its toxic effects on the body.This study was designed to evaluate the effect of garri on fasting blood glucose levels and some physiological markers in male Wistar rats.A total of twenty male Wistar rats were used in this study, and divided into four groups of five animals each.Group I was fed with grower's feed, Group II was fed with 25% garri, Group III was fed with 50% garri and Group IV was fed with 100% garri.The animals in all groups were allowed access to vitamix in their drinking water, and were fed for a period of four weeks.The results obtained showed that 50% and 100% garri, significantly (p < 0.05) lowered the fasting blood glucose level, body weight and body mass index of the male Wistar rats.There was a significant decrease in high density lipoprotein and triglyceride levels, but a significant increase in low density lipoprotein levels in the animals fed with 100% garri.The gastric mucus content and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) levels were significantly elevated.The differential neutrophil cell count was significantly elevated by garri.Histological sections of the pancreas, lung and stomach of animals fed with garri, showed mild histoarchitectural alterations and inflammation.It can be concluded that garri, especially at 100% concentration may have altered some physiological parameters in male Wistar rats.