The effects of dietary Egyptian propolis and bee pollen supplementation against toxicity if sodium fluoride in rats

Abstract

Propolis and bee pollen are substances produced by honey bees its components are strong antioxidant and free radical scavengers. The present study aimed to study the protective effects of propolis and bee pollen supplementation against toxicity of sodium fluoride in rats. After the end of experimental period, the rats sacrified and biochemical analysis were carried out. The results showed that the administration of fluoride (F) alone causes significant increase of malondialdehyde (MDA) level and significant decrease of antioxidant system as erythrocyte superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reduced glutathione (GSH) levels in blood and brain. Also F causes significant increase alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, urea, creatinine, sodium and potassium levels. And significant decrease total protein, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus levels as compared to control group (P < 0.05). Whereas administration of propolis or bee pollen with F led to significant decrease in MDA level and significant increase in SOD activity, GSH levels in blood and brain. And significant decrease ALP activity, urea, creatinine, sodium and potassium levels in serum. The propolis or bee pollen enhanced total protein, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus levels in serum as compared to F group alone. In conclusion; supplementation of natural antioxidant (propolis or bee pollen) during Fluoride administration, facilitate reduction of the toxic effects and enhanced the antioxidant system, the levels of minerals is serum