Effects of Exercise Training and Consumption of Fenugreek Seed Extract on Expression of Oxidised LDL and ROS-related Genes in Patients with Coronary Artery Occlusion

Background and objectives: Sedentary life style and high-fat diet are one of the key causes of coronary artery disease. The aim of this study was to evaluate effects of periodic exercise and consumption of fenugreek seed extract on the expression of oxidized low-density lipoprotein (oxLDL) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) genes in patients with coronary artery occlusion. Methods: The present quasi-experimental study was performed on 32 men (60±5 years) with coronary artery disease. The subjects were randomly divided into four groups: control, exercise, fenugreek supplementation, and combination of exercise and fenugreek supplementation. The training program consisted of eight weeks of intermittent running at 55 to 65% heart rate reserve, three sessions per week, with an emphasis on gradual overload. The subjects consumed 10 mg/kg of body weight fenugreek extract daily. Data analysis was performed using two-way analysis of variance and Tukey's test at statistical significance of 0.05. Results: The mean expression ratio of oxLDL and ROS genes in the intervention groups decreased significantly (p<0.0001). Compared with the control group, the most profound decreased in oxLDL and ROS expression occurred after combination of exercise and fenugreek supplementation (p<0.0001). Conclusion: The results showed that intermittent exercise and consumption of fenugreek seed extract might have beneficial effects on the antioxidant defense system in patients with coronary artery occlusion.