Supplementation with vitamin E does not alter plasma leptin, adiponectin or corticosterone response to different high-fat diets in rats

Abstract

The aim of the study was to assess if supplementation of high-fat diets with vitamin E influences circulating leptin, adiponectin and corticosterone (Cs) in rats. Forty-eight male rats were divided into 4 groups of 12 rats each, and for 6 weeks fed on 20% (wt/wt)-fat diets. Dietary fat was provided by cod liver oil (CLO), grape seed oil (GO), rape seed oil (RO), or lard (L), enriched with vitamin E (500 mg/kg, +E), or not. Plasma hormone levels were unaffected by vitamin E supplementation. Corticosterone concentrations were, however, higher in RO+E rats compared with non-supplemented RO rats. Fat type had a significant impact on relative plasma adipokine levels, body weight, and body fatness. Specifically, GO and RO exhibited the highest levels of adipokines. Yet, plasma Cs levels did not vary among groups. Our study supports the preventive role of vegetable fats, even if supplied in excess, against adipose tissue deposition and its ramifications in terms of hormone secretion.