Effect of indigestible polysaccharides on protein digestibility and nitrogen retention in growing rats
1979
The effect of five indigestible polysaccharides (IP) on nitrogen balance and dry matter digestibility was studied in growing rats. The diets contained 10% of gum guar (GG), carob bean gum (CBG), Na-alginate (Na-A), agar-agar (AA) or carrageenan (C), respectively. Dry matter digestibility and apparent protein digestibility were decreased below control values by all 5 IP. Nitrogen retention was significantly lower after ingestion of AA or C. In rats receiving GG, CBG, or Na-A, urinary nitrogen excretion was reduced, while fecal nitrogen losses were increased. The different effects of the 5 substances on the nitrogen balance were attributed to their partial breakdown through the action of intestinal microflora and/or their ability to partially inhibit the activity of proteolytic enzymes in the gastrointestinal tract. The suitability of the various IP as bulking agents in reducing diets is discussed.
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