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Feeding regime affects activity-stress ulcer production
1Department of Psychology, Randolph-Macon College, Ashland, VA 23005.
Physiology & Behavior
|October 1, 1989
Summary
Frequent feeding in rats helps prevent stress-induced gastric ulcers. Even with the same food intake, rats with fewer meals experienced more ulceration, suggesting meal frequency is key.
Area of Science:
- Physiology
- Animal Behavior
- Gastroenterology
Background:
- Stress is a known factor in the development of gastric peptic ulcers.
- Activity-stress ulcer models are used to study ulcer formation in response to environmental stressors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the effect of feeding frequency on gastric ulcer formation in an activity-stress paradigm in rats.
- To determine if increased physical activity or meal frequency is the primary factor in mitigating ulcer development.
Main Methods:
- Rats were divided into active (activity wheels) and control (stationary cages) groups.
- Both groups received 1, 2, 3, or 4 meals daily for a total of 1 hour feeding time.
- Control rats were food-yoked to active rats to equalize food intake.
Main Results:
- Active rats fed once daily showed significantly more ulceration, weight loss, and reduced food/water consumption compared to other groups.
- No control animals developed ulcers, despite receiving the same food as active rats.
- Meal frequency did not affect the level of physical activity.
Conclusions:
- Frequent feedings appear to mitigate gastric peptic ulcer formation in rats subjected to the activity-stress ulcer model.
- The results suggest that meal frequency, rather than just food intake or physical activity alone, plays a crucial role in preventing stress-induced ulcers.
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