The Influence of Watermelon (Citrullus Lanatus) Juice Intake on the Kidney of Wistar Rats (Rattus Novergicus) Exposed to Monosodium Glutamate

Abstract

Monosodium glutamate (MSG) is a food additive used in processed food. Long time use of MSG causes oxidative stress and damages kidney. The lycopene contents in watermelon is potential in reducing oxidative stress. This research aimed to discover the effect of watermelon juice in preventing kidney damage in rats.30 Wistar rats were divided into 5 groups: four groups fed with 10 mg of MSG / g body weight; three groups of these also fed with 3 different concentrations of watermelon juice (25% in P1, 50% in P2, and 100% in P3) whereas the MSG only is as the control positive (KP). The fifth group is supplemented with water as the negative control (KN).Blood and kidney were takenafter 30 days experiment. The urea levels were significantly higher in P1 (p=0.00) and P3 (p=0.01) in compare to KN, by 67% and 54% respectively. Creatinine levels were significantly lower in all watermelon intake groups by 32-46% in compare to KP. Kidney damages were obvious in group KP (p=0.00) and P1 (p=0.01). This research demonstrated that MSG exposure causedkidney damages and decreased kidney function. Watermelon juice at the concentration of 50% is able to reduce kidney damages by 48%.