Abstract

In experiment 1, dietary self-selection of the 3 macronutrients, protein, fat, and carbohydrate were examined in male rats given 3 food cups of 80% carbohydrate, 80% protein, and 70% fat diets simultaneously. All the rats showed normal growth pattern and organ weight, which means they have ability to select just right kinds and amounts of nurients in order to support their growth and development. Mean values of caloric intake, body weight gain, serum lipid values and empty carcass compositions were not significantly differ between the upper and lower quartile groups of fat proportion of empty carcass compared to the lower quartile group(LF). Same feeding design was employed in experiment 2 where the effect of mild electric stress on food selection was studied. The rats in both control and electric stress group revealed a normal growth curve and organ weights. The rats in both control and electric stress group revealed a normal growth curve and organ weights. The stress group showed higher caloric intake and body weight gain than control group, but no significant effects of stress on serum and empty carcass components was found. Even though normal rats seemed to select macronutrients according to their physiolosical needs, there were individual differences in food selection whether they were exposed to stress or not. Therefore life long individual food selection pattern may have a great influence on nutritional status and chronic degenerative diseases of eldery, and on aging process.

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