Metabolic effects of liquid protein.

In the first experiment, the liquid protein product (LP) tested would not support growth in rats when fed at the 8% protein level in an otherwise nutritionally adequate diet. The product was composed of an imbalanced mixture of amino acids which could not be used optimally for protein synthesis and which resulted in appetite depression. Total plasma nonessential amino acids increased significantly in the rats receiving LP, while total plasma essential amino acids were not significantly different. In the second experiment, the LP reducing diet caused rapid weight loss. Adequate vitamin-mineral supplementation given to the rats receiving the LP diet apparently prevented heart and plasma electrolyte abnormalities.