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Individual differences in saccharin acceptance predict rats' food intake
Robert A Boakes1, Sarah I Martire1, Kieron B Rooney2
1School of Psychology, University of Sydney, Australia.
Physiology & Behavior
|June 5, 2016
Summary
Rats that consumed less saccharin solution gained more weight and fat. Saccharin acceptance predicted subsequent food intake, weight gain, and fat mass in rats.
Area of Science:
- Animal Behavior
- Nutritional Science
- Physiology
Background:
- Previous studies linked low saccharin-sweetened yogurt acceptance to slower weight gain.
- Individual differences may influence energy balance and body composition.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify predictors of chow consumption, body weight gain, and fat mass.
- To assess the predictive value of saccharin solution intake, activity levels, and anxiety.
Main Methods:
- Rats underwent pre-testing for saccharin intake, wheel running, and elevated plus maze (EPM) performance.
- Animals were fed standard chow and water for three weeks.
- Post-testing mirrored pre-testing, followed by fat pad excision and weighing.
Main Results:
- Saccharin acceptance negatively correlated with activity levels.
- Pre-test saccharin acceptance positively predicted subsequent chow consumption, percent weight gain, and fat mass.
- High anxiety predicted lower percent body weight gain.
Conclusions:
- Saccharin acceptance is a significant predictor of energy intake and body composition.
- Individual differences in taste preference and behavior influence physiological outcomes.
- Anxiety levels may play a role in modulating weight gain.
