Plasma Protein Concentrations and Organ Weights of Rats as Related to a High Protein Diet

Abstract

SummaryThe effect of a high protein diet (78% casein or lactalbumin) was studied in male rats. The rate of body weight increase was retarded over a 3-week period by a 78% lactalbumin diet in young and adult rats. A modest increase in adrenal weight was observed but no indication of increased! functional activity was suggested by alterations in plasma albumin or globulin concentrations since the plasma protein levels remained unchanged. Non-protein nitrogen was elevated by the excess dietary protein. Thyroid, pituitary, testis and seminal vesicle weights remained normal but kidney and liver weights were increased. Liver protein was increased: in young rats fed the high lactalbumin diet.