Bee Bread Can Alleviate Lipid Abnormalities and Impaired Bone Morphology in Obese Zucker Diabetic Rats

Abstract

This study examined for the first time whether bee bread (BB, consisting of monofloral rape bee pollen) could alleviate lipid derangements and reduced bone quality in Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats, which are considered an appropriate animal model for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) investigation. Adult ZDF rats were segregated into four groups: lean non-diabetic rats (L group), obese diabetic rats untreated (C group), and those treated with the BB at two doses (500 and 700 mg/kg body weight, respectively, B1 and B2 groups) for 10 weeks. Significantly reduced levels of total cholesterol and triglyceride were recorded in the B2 group versus the C group. In both BB-treated groups, significantly increased relative volume of trabecular bone and trabecular thickness, enhanced density of secondary osteons, accelerated periosteal bone apposition, and improved blood flow were observed. A positive effect of higher dose of BB on femoral weight and cortical bone thickness was also demonstrated. Our results suggest a promising potential of BB to ameliorate T2DM-related complications associated with lipid and bone damages.

The Role of Macronutrients, Micronutrients and Flavonoid Polyphenols in the Prevention and Treatment of Osteoporosis

“…It is therefore surprising that bee products have the ability to alleviate diabetic complications, including the improvement of damaged bone structure. Martiniakova et al [ 108 ] reported a protective effect of bee bread against hyperglycemia and diabetic bone disease in Zucker diabetic fatty rats. In addition, honey can also improve glycemic control and reduce diabetic complications [ 109 ] due to a wide range of proteins, bioactive peptides, fatty acids, organic acids, phenolic acids, prebiotics, probiotics, fiber, minerals, vitamins, flavonoids and carotenoids.…”

Bee Bread as a Promising Source of Bioactive Molecules and Functional Properties: An Up-To-Date Review

“…In the same context, Martiniakova et al [ 109 ] reported that the oral administration of monofloral bee bread extract ( Brassica napus L.) significantly lowered blood glucose levels, prevented lipid abnormalities, and impaired the bone morphology of Zucker diabetic fatty rats. In addition, Haščík et al [ 110 ] showed the effect of dietary bee bread powder on the chemical composition of Japanese quails meat.…”

Pharmaceutical Drugs and Natural Therapeutic Products for the Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus

“…In addition, vitamins (e.g., B and E) and minerals (e.g., Mg, zinc (Zn), and selenium (Se)) found in whole grains can reduce oxidative stress and inflammation [ 36 ]. Capcarova et al [ 37 ] and Martiniakova et al [ 38 ] state the protective impact of bee bread against hyperglycaemia, hyperlipidaemia, and diabetic bone disease in the appropriate T2DM animal model. Moreover, the most famous bee product, honey, can also improve glycaemic control and reduce secondary diabetic complications [ 39 ].…”