Protective effect of Spinacia oleracea (spinach) leaf juice against gastric hypersecretion in rats

Samaniego Tiahuallpa F.B.; Cabrejos Silva G.Y.; Huamán Gutiérrez J.M.; Lozano Cueva M.; Huamán Gutiérrez O.G. · Nutricion Clinica y Dietetica Hospitalaria (2025) · DOI: 10.12873/453samaniego

Resumen

Introduction: Gastritis and/or ulcers gastricts have become very common in our environment in recent years, which is related to eating disorders and Helicobacter pylori infection. In recent years, the healing properties of various foods have been evaluated, which are related to the phytonutrients they contain. Objectives: To evaluate the effect of the juice of Spinacia oleracea “spinach” leaves against the induction of gastric hypersecretion in rats. Materials and methods: This was an experimental study. The spinach leaf juice was obtained using a household extractor. Forty-two rats (n=7) were randomly distributed into six groups, and each group received the following treatments perorally: groups I and II, physiological saline solution 10 mL/kg; group III, ranitidine 50 mg/kg; groups IV-V-VI, spinach leaf juice at 2, 5, and 10 mL/kg of weight, respectively. After one hour, they were anesthetized, and the pylorus was ligated; one hour later, histamine (50 mg/kg) was administered subcutaneously to groups II–VI. After three hours, they were anesthetized to extract the stomach and its contents. Results: Treatment with spinach juice at a dose of 5 mL/kg (group V) showed a lower volume of gastric secretion (38.1%), lower total acidity (38.1%), lower peptic activity (30.9%) and an increase in pH (29.7%), showing a significant difference (p<0.05) with group II. At the level of the gastric mucosa in group V, a significant increase in gastric mucus was observed (81.1%), lipid peroxidation decreased significantly in groups V (39.5%) and VI (36.9%). Additionally, histological analysis revealed a preservation of the mucosa, without mucinous damage, in the groups that received groups IV and V. Conclusion: The juice of Spinacia oleracea “spinach” leaves exerted a protective effect against histamine-induced gastric secretion in rats.

Instituciones: Universidad Nacional Mayor de San Marcos; Universidad Peruana Los Andes