Balanites aegyptiaca (Heglig Dates) Reduces Oxidative Stress and Biophysical Alterations of Erythrocyte Membranes in Streptozotocin-Induced Diabetic Rats

Objectives: In diabetic conditions, hyperglycemia-induced oxidative stress promotes alterations of function and other properties of the erythrocyte membrane. In this study, we investigated the effects of Balanites aegyptiaca (100 mg/kg) on biophysical characteristics of erythrocyte membranes in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. Methods: Twenty-four male rats were divided into three groups as follows: Group 1, control group; Group 2, diabetic group; and Group 3, diabetic plus Balanites aegyptiaca (Heglig dates). After 30 days of treatment, we determined erythrocyte osmotic fragility, AC conductivity, auto-oxidation rate of hemoglobin, and electron paramagnetic resonance. Results: The osmotic fragility was significantly higher in the diabetic group compared to the control and diabetic with Heglig dates. We also found a significant decrease in the hemoglobin concentration. Conclusion: Four weeks of daily supplementation with 100 mg/kg Heglig dates suggest the beneficial role of Balanites aegyptiaca fruit as a hypoglycemic and could reduce the levels of oxidative stress markers by inhibiting lipid peroxidation in streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats.