Osteoporosis is characterized by loss of bone density and strength. Improved bone quality has been observed in ovariectomized rats fed diets containing orange pulp which is rich in antioxidants and contains vitamin C. The purpose of the current study was to investigate whether drinking vitamin C solution improves bone quality in ovariectomized (OVX) rats once bone loss has occurred. In this study, forty-two female rats were subjected to sham operated (n=14) or OVX (n=28) and fed a common diet for 120 days. Sixty days after the surgical procedure, the ovariectomized rats were divided to two groups, OVX group or OVX group drinking solution containing vitamin C (1 mg/1 ml). At the end of the study rats were euthanized, blood was collected for the plasma antioxidant capacity, and 5th lumbar vertebrae and right femur bones were collected for bone quality. The plasma antioxidant capacity, 5th lumbar and femur density and strength, calcium, and magnesium were reduced (P<0.05) in the OVX treatment group compared to the sham group. The addition of vitamin C to drinking water increased (P<0.05) the antioxidant capacity to the level of the sham group. But, the density of the 5th lumbar and femur in the vitamin C group significantly increased (P<0.05) compared to the OVX group while it never reached those of the sham group. In contrast, femoral strength and the calcium concentration of the vitamin C group were not different from those of the OVX group, while, the calcium concentration of the 5th lumbar in the vitamin C group was significantly iv higher (P<0.05) in the OVX group to the level of the sham group. In conclusion, beneficial effects of drinking vitamin C solution on bone quality may be related to improved antioxidant status in ovariectomized rats. Keywords: Osteoporosis, Ovariectomized, Rats, Vitamin C, Antioxidant status
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