The Effect of aqueous extract of Lagenaria breviflora (Robert) whole fruit on Egg Lipoprotein profile of Laying Birds

Abstract

The continuous demand of the ever-growing Nigerian populace to meet their daily protein requirement resulted in the positive shift in the consumption of table eggs but with many opting for alternatives because of the perceived cholesterol content. The study was therefore carried out to investigate the effect of Lagenaria breviflora R. (LB) whole fruit on egg lipoproteins of laying birds on two management systems. A total of 126 Yaffa brown layers aged 36 weeks were administered aqueous extract of L. breviflora R. at three levels (0, 50, and 75 g fresh weight per L of water). Data obtained on egg lipid profiles were arranged in one way analysis of variance. The percentage change (reduction) in total cholesterol, LDL and VLDL were higher in 50 g-dosed birds likewise with a higher HDL-cholesterol. Therefore, commercial layers
administered LB at 50 g/L as an alternative medication in cholesterol reduction in table egg production.