The Reno-Protective Effects of Coconut Water on the Kidneys of Diabetic Wistar Rats

Diabetes Mellitus is one of the leading causes of end stage renal failure. In this present study the remedial effect of coconut water on alloxan-induced diabetes mellitus on the total body weight, kidney function and kidney cyto-architecture were studied. A total of eighteen (18) wistar rats were randomly divided into three experimental groups (n=6). Group I (Control) was fed on rat chow and water ad libitum and Group II and III were made diabetic by single intra peritoneal dose of 150mg/kg body weight of alloxan monohydrate. Group II were fed rat chow and water ad libitum and Group III fed a rat chow and coconut water ad libitum for 30 days. The result showed a statistical significant (P 0.05) reduction in weight, a significant increase in the renal function parameters (urea, creatinine, potassium, sodium and bicarbonate) due to diabetes and a significant reduction in these parameters following the administration of coconut water. The renal cyto-architecture also showed a protective/regenerative effect following treatment with coconut water. This finding may be beneficial in preventing kidney damage in diabetic patients.