Abstract

The effect of a 2-day fast on fetal and maternal weight and composition was determined in ad libitum-fed and food-restricted pregnant and nonpregnant rats. Fasting between days 17 and 19 of gestation resulted in a greater loss of net maternal body weight in ad libitum-fed pregnant than in nonpregnant rats and also a greater loss of body fat. In contrast, food-restricted pregnant rats, also fasted from day 17 to day 19 of gestation, maintained their net body weight and body fat during the fast as did nonpregnant rats fasted for the same length of time. Fetal weight was not significantly reduced by fasting in the ad libitum-fed rats but was reduced by 25% in the previously food-restricted rats. The results demonstrate that prior maternal nutritional status strongly influences the effects of fasting on the fetus and that maternal nutrient stores are not mobilized for fetal utilization even when fetal growth is markedly impaired.fasting body composition fetal weight

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.