THE EFFECT OF VARIATIONS IN ABILITY TO EXCRETE POTASSIUM ON POTASSIUM INGESTION IN THE RAT

Summary The free intake of 5% glucose in 3% KCl (G/KCl) and of other solutions has been compared in rats receiving a normal or a high potassium diet. Consumption of G/KCl was increased in rats on a high potassium diet but consumption of 5% glucose in sodium or calcium chloride solutions, or of potassium or glucose solutions alone, was not increased. Despite an increased potassium ingestion, the plasma potassium concentration was no higher in animals on a high K diet which have an increased ability to excrete potassium, Thus, rats which exhibit potassium tolerance also ingest more potassium when this is offered in solutions with 5% glucose. The reason for this is not established.