Metrecal-induced changes in human saliva.

Abstract

SummaryA marked reduction in volume and total protein and amylase content of the secretion from the parotid gland of man occurred when young adult men were maintained for 7 days on a diet consisting exclusively of liquid Metrecal. Restriction of caloric intake (900 calories per day) caused a reduction in body weight of approximately 7 Ib per week when the diet was Metrecal or solid food; however, with the 900 calorie solid food diet, volume, amylase, or total protein of the secretion did not differ from those obtained from men maintained on an ad lib solid food diet. These changes in functional status of the parotid gland in man are attributed to a reduction in masticatory, and therefore, in the reflexly-mediated secretory stimuli to the gland. The submaxillary is not affected by the Metrecal treatment and a tentative explanation for these differences is presented.