Influence of Dietary Supplements of Cholesterol and Vitamin D on Certain Components of the Blood and Body of Growing-Finishing Swine

Abstract

The American public has been made extremely conscious of the concept that saturated fat and cholesterol may be involved in atherosclerosis in man. Likewise, because of their content of cholesterol and saturated fatty acids, animal products have become engrossed in a controversy concerning their role in the atherogenic process. No definite conclusions have been made in this area and until further research advances in the field of atherosclerosis, the animal scientist may have to concern himself with modifying the animal product in such a way that it will be more acceptable to the American public. The degree to which this may be accomplished will vary with the species of animal. Swine are somewhat more unique in this respect because moderate changes in the diet can result in dramatic changes in the composition and type of fat deposited in the swine carcass. A review of the literature indicates few studies concerning the relationship between vitamin D and cholesterol—compounds functional in the body and which have a similar chemical structure.