Magnesium absorption in mature ewes infused intrarumenally with magnesium chloride

The effects of magnesium supplementation on Mg absorption proximal and distal to the pylorus in ewes maintained on a grass diet were investigated using a combination of balance, digesta flow and electropotential measurements. Three mature ewes each received by intrarumenal infusion a supplement of 0, 1, 2 and 3 g Mg/d in sequence over four 10-d periods. Net Mg absorption distal to the pylorus took place down its electrochemical gradient, although the quantity absorbed remained small during the control and first infusion periods. The bulk of Mg absorption occurred before the pylorus and, during the control and first infusion periods, took place against its electrochemical gradient. The net Mg absorption proximal to the pylorus rose with declining efficiency as Mg intake was increased. It is suggested that saturation of the absorption process at this site was occurring.