Chronic administration of <i>Musa acuminata</i> Colla (BANANA) to Wistar albino rats induces hyperkalemia

Abstract

Background Hyperkalemia is a medical condition characterized by excess potassium in the blood. Overindulgence in foods high in potassium can also result in hyperkalemia, particularly in individuals with severe kidney disease..Aim of the study In this study, hyperkalemia was assessed in Wistar albino rats administered with M. acuminata.Material and Methods Thirty-six rats underwent various treatments over three months after being randomly divided into groups of six. Standard medications administered included Lisinopril and keyaxalate. The proximate and mineral content of raw banana (RB) and normal rat pellets (NRP) were compared and evaluated with that of cooked banana (CB). The rats’ serum and urine calcium and potassium levels were measured using established protocols.Results In comparison to RB, CB was found to have significantly higher levels of nutrients (proteins and fats) and minerals (calcium, sodium, and potassium). Administration of CB markedly significantly increased serum potassium levels however, keyaxalate decreased urine potassium levels; the treatment of kayexalate plus lisinopril markedly decreased urine Ca concentration (p<0.05).Conclusions Cooked banana has a higher mineral and nutritional content than raw banana. Continuous and daily consumption of cooked bananas led to hyperkalemia in Wistar rats as evidenced by elevated serum potassium levels.