The Effect of Edible Clay Consumption on Blood Glucose Levels and Pancreatic Histology of Pregnant Wistar Rats

Edible clay consumption is a common practice in various cultures, often believed to have health benefits. However, its impact on blood glucose regulation, particularly during pregnancy, remains unexplored. Pregnancy induces significant physiological changes, including altered glucose metabolism, making it essential to assess any dietary influences that could impact maternal and fetal health. Accordingly, this study investigates the effect of edible clay consumption on blood glucose levels in pregnant Wistar rats. Sixty (60) adult female Wistar rats (150-200g) were used for the study. They were randomly assigned into four groups (1-4) with 15 rats per group. Each group was further subdivided into three sub groups tagged Gestation Day 7 (GD 7), Gestation Day 14 (GD 14) and Gestation Day 20 (GD 20) with five rats in each subgroup (n=5). Group 1 served as control, groups 2, 3 and 4 were given 500 mg/kg, 1000 mg/kg and 2000 mg/kg body weight of edible clay respectively. Administration of edible clay was done orally and lasted for 20 days. Rats were sacrificed on GD 7, 14 and 20, blood samples were collected for blood glucose assay, and the pancreas were harvested and fixed in buffered formalin for histological assessments. Results from the study showed no statistical significant differences (P>0.05) in the blood glucose level of pregnant rats given low, medium and high doses of edible clay on GD 7, 14 and 20 when compared to control. Also, rats given low and medium doses of edible clay on GD 7, 14 and GD 7, 14, and 20 respectively, maintained normal histoarchitecture of the pancreas when compared to control; however, vascular dilatation and congestion occurred in pancreas of pregnant rats given 500 mg/kg of edible clay on GD 20, while vascular hypertrophy and ulceration were observed in the pancreas of pregnant rats given 2000 mg/kg of edible clay on GD 7, GD 14 and GD 20. In conclusion, edible clay consumption does not significantly affect blood glucose levels in pregnant rats, however, high-dose intake may cause pancreatic damage.