Effect of the pH on intestinal absorption of sugars in vivo

Influence of the pH on the absorption rate of sugars by rat intestine in vivo has been revised by means of a technique for intestinal lumen perfusion with 1 minute absorption periods. Absorption at pH 2.5, 5, 7, 8.5, and 10 has been comparied in each animal. Absorption rate of D-glucose, D-galactose and D-fructose is highest at pH 7 and decreases at the lower or higher pH values. The pH does not affect the absorption of D-arabinose. The pH effect is attributed to changes in the transport system for sugars.