Effect of supplementation with red rooibos tea on body composition, metabolic outcomes and movement in ovariectomized Sprague-Dawley rats

Menopause is associated with increases in visceral adipose tissue (VAT), reductions in lean mass, and a reduced energy expenditure. The ovariectomized (OVX) rat model can be used to model these changes, and to test potential interventions that may attenuate this response. Red rooibos (RR), due to its high polyphenol content, may counter the effect of low estrogen levels. The objective of this study was to determine if consumption of RR can blunt the changes to body composition, metabolic outcomes and movement that occur in the OVX rat model.