OBJECTIVE:
Hazelnut (Corylus avellana) widely raised and used in Turkey, is an important source of vitamin E, niacin, calcium (Ca), magnesium (Mg) and potassium (K). Recently, beneficial effects of hazelnut consumption in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases have been shown in several studies. Our aim was to investigate the effects of frequent hazelnut consumption on serum sodium (Na), K, chloride (Cl), iron (Fe) and Ca levels and hematological parameters such as leucocyte, eritrocyte, hemoglobin, hematocrit and fibrinogen levels.
MATERIAL and METHODS:
25 volunteer healthy subjects were advised to eat 20 g/day hazelnut for 7 days without diet restriction. Subjects that consume nut habitually and non-consumers were evaluated separately. Fasting blood samples prior and after hazelnut consumption were taken. Blood parameters were analyzed using Roche kits in 747 Hitachi autoanalyzer, and hematological analysis were determined using Dade-Behring kits in BCSautomatic coagulometer.
RESULTS:
Hazelnut consumption, decreased serum Na, Cl, Ca and increased total iron binding capacity in hazelnut consumers and non-consumers. At the end of 7 days, hemoglobin and hematocrit levels decreased in non-consumers and fibrinogen levels were increased in hazelnut consumers. However all these changes were in normal limits.
CONCLUSION:
Studies on the effects of hazelnut consumption on hematological parameters and mineral balance may enlighten the effects this nutrient widely raised and consumed inTurkey.
Keywords: Hazelnut serum, minerals, hematological parameters