Feeding regime affects activity-stress ulcer production.
Rats were divided into either an active group housed in activity wheels or a control group housed in stationary laboratory cages. Both active and control groups were further divided into groups receiving 1, 2, 3, or 4 meals daily for a total feeding time of 1 hr. Control rats were food-yoked to active animals. Results indicated that active rats fed 1 meal daily developed significantly more ulceration, lost more weight, and consumed less food and water than other groups. The number of daily meals had no effect on the amount of activity. No control animals developed ulcers, although they received the same amount of food. These results suggest that frequent feedings mitigate gastric peptic ulcer formation in rats placed in the activity-stress ulcer paradigm.
Lambert
K G
KG
Department of Psychology, Randolph-Macon College, Ashland, VA 23005.
Peacock
L J
LJ
D000818:Animals; D001143:Arousal / Q000502:physiology*; D002940:Circadian Rhythm / Q000502:physiology; D004327:Drinking Behavior / Q000502:physiology; D005247:Feeding Behavior / Q000502:physiology*; D005745:Gastric Acidity Determination; D005753:Gastric Mucosa / Q000503:physiopathology; D008297:Male; D009043:Motor Activity / Q000502:physiology; D051381:Rats; D011919:Rats, Inbred Strains; D013276:Stomach Ulcer / Q000503:physiopathology*; D013312:Stress, Physiological / Q000503:physiopathology*