Increased carbohydrate consumption by rats as a function of 2-deoxy-D-glucose administration

Dietary self-selection was examined following the administration of the glucoprivic agent, 2-deoxy-D-glucose (2-DG), in adult male rats given access to separate sources of the three macronutrients, protein, fat and carbohydrate. All animals received injections (IP) of saline, 250, 500 and 750 mg/kg 2-DG with nutrient intakes measured at 2, 4, 6 and 24 hrs following injections. Animals consumed significantly more carbohydrate at 4, 6 and 24 hrs after injections of 500 and 750 mg/kg 2-DG than after saline injections. In contrast, fat intake was significantly suppressed by all three doses of 2-DG at 2 hr, by 250 and 750 mg/kg 2-DG at 4 and 6 hrs, and by 750 mg/kg 2-DG at 24 hr after injections. Protein intake was significantly decreased by all three doses of 2-DG at 2 hr after injections. As a result of the increase in carbohydrate intake and complimentary decrease in fat intake following 2-DG injections, total caloric intake of animals given the self-selection regime was not modified as a function of drug administration. In comparison, rats given a single nutritionally complete diet (ground Purina Laboratory Chow) consumed significantly more calories following 2-DG administration than following saline injections. The ability of animals to make appropriate modifications in nutrient selection following regulatory challenges is discussed.