Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The prevalence of obesity and related metabolic disorders is a growing concern worldwide. The consumption of a high-fat diet is a major contributor to the development of dyslipidemia and other cardiovascular risk factors. Herbal remedies have been traditionally used for various health conditions, and one such remedy is Kaka bitters, known for its potential therapeutic effects on metabolic disorders. This study aimed to investigate the effect of Kaka bitters on the lipid profile of Wistar rats fed with a high-fat diet. Thirty male Wistar rats were randomly divided into five groups Control (standard diet), High Fat Diet (HFD) control, HFD + Kaka bitters (100 mg/kg), HFD + Kaka bitters (200 mg/kg), and HFD + Atorvastatin (10 mg/kg). The rats were fed their respective diets for eight weeks. At the end of the study period, blood samples were collected for lipid profile analysis, including total cholesterol, triglycerides, low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The results showed that rats in the HFD control group had significantly elevated levels of total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL, while HDL levels were reduced compared to the control group. In contrast, rats treated with Kaka bitters at both 100 mg/kg and 200 mg/kg doses showed a dose-dependent improvement in their lipid profiles. Total cholesterol, triglycerides, and LDL levels were significantly reduced, while HDL levels were increased in the Kaka bitters treated groups compared to the HFD control group. These effects were comparable to the positive control group treated with Atorvastatin. The findings of this study suggest that Kaka bitters have potential beneficial effects on the lipid profile of rats fed with a high-fat diet. The mechanism of action may involve the modulation of lipid metabolism pathways, leading to improved cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Further research is warranted to elucidate the specific bioactive compounds in Kaka bitters responsible for these effects and to determine their safety and efficacy in human subjects. In conclusion, Kaka bitters supplementation shows promise as a natural remedy for improving dyslipidemia associated with high-fat diet consumption. Incorporating Kaka bitters into dietary interventions may offer a novel approach to managing lipid abnormalities and reducing cardiovascular risk factors.

Thesis Overview