The Utilization of Some B Vitamins Administered to the Rat Apart from the Diet

Abstract

Two experiments were conducted to determine whether limiting amounts of thiamine, riboflavin, pyridoxine and pantothenic acid are used as well by growing rats when given apart from the diet as when given with the diet. In the first experiment, one group of animals received these vitamins in the diet throughout the day, while a second group received an equivalent amount of the vitamins once a day by stomach tube. The results showed no significant difference in average weight gain or efficiency of food utilization. In the second experiment, the animals were first trained to consume their daily food within one hour to permit administration of B vitamins apart from the diet (either immediately after eating or several hours later). The weight gain of these animals was similar to that of the pair-mates which received the vitamins in the diet. Significantly more water was consumed by rats receiving the vitamins in the diet, and these animals had relatively smaller kidneys than those receiving the vitamins separately. B vitamins administered separately from the diet once each day appear to be as well utilized as those incorporated in the diet.