Abstract
Weanling Wistar-strain male and female rats were fed a normal or an iron-deficient diet for 8 weeks. Body weight measurement and nitrogen, calcium, magnesium and phosphorus balance tests were carried out.
Results were as follows. Male and female rats fed the iron-defficient diet had a severe iron deficiency anemia.
Male rats fed the iron-deficient diet decreased food consumption, body weight gain and food efficiency.
Iron-deficient diet group showed a half nitrogen retention, comparing with normal diet group. A decrease in absorption of calcium, magnesium and phosphorus were also observed.
