Can dietary macronutrient preference profile serve as a predictor of voluntary alcohol consumption?

A diet rich in protein has been shown to increase voluntary alcohol consumption (VAC) in a variety of animal species. Macronutrient preference (MP) profile varies widely among different outbred rats of the same strain. Using outbred Sprague-Dawley rats and two inbred selected strains of rats (P and NP) that are known for large differences in alcohol preference, we have examined whether 1) there is a relationship between MP profile and VAC and 2) MP profile can be a predictor of VAC. Results of these studies show 1) wide animal-to-animal variations in both the MP and VC and 2) the presence of an association between MP profile and VAC in P and NP but not Sprague-Dawley rats. Therefore, we conclude that MP profile may not serve as a reliable predictor of VAC in a nonselected population.