STUDIES IN THE PHYSIOLOGY OF VITAMINS

Abstract

The time required for development of the anorexia characteristic of vitamin B deficiency, and the amt. of food ingested during the period of voluntary food intake were determined in 4 dogs under "normal" or basal conditions and during experimental hyperthy-roidism. During thyroxin administration the anorexia due to vitamin B deficiency appeared in 1/2-2/3 of the time required during the control period and the quantity of food ingested voluntarily per day was correspondingly increased. The total caloric intakes for the 2 experimental periods were approximately the same. This suggests that a definite relationship exists between a given amt. of vitamin B and the catabolism of a definite quantity of foodstuffs. The 4 animals successfully maintained their weights by voluntary ingestion of food only when receiving sufficient amts. of vitamin B.