The absorption of plant sterols by the fowl

Abstract

1. A gas-liquid chromatographic method for the detection of phytosterols in tissues and excreta of birds was developed. The limitations of this method are discussed. 2. β- and γ-Sitosterol werc detected in the plasma of adult cockerels and in the plasma, intestinal wall, and liver of 4-week-old cockerels. The proportion of sitosterols in the total sterol absorbed appeared to be affected by the nature of the dietary fat. 3. γ-Sitosterol was more effectively absorbed than β-sitosterol. The ratio of β to γ was altered by the nature of the dietary fat. 4. Using a diet containing 10% triolein and 1% cholic acid, and increasing the dietary plant sterol level up to 2%, increased the proportion of sitosterols in the intestinal wall of 4-week-old cocks. Further increases in dietary plant sterols did not produce additional increases in the proportion of sitosterols among intestinal wall sterols. 5. γ-Sitosterol and traces of β-sitosterol were found in eggs from hens given a diet supplemented with maize stcrols.