Utilization of 1,3-Butanediol and Nonspecific Nitrogen in Human Adults

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Abstract
The role of 1,3-butanediol (BD) as an energy source for human nutrition has been studied. Twelve volunteers underwent metabolic studies for 35 days with adjustment period and four 7-day experimental periods. During experimental periods 5.23 g of nitrogen daily was provided by wheat flour bread containing isocaloric quantities of starch or butanediol. Additional periods of urea supplementation added 4 g of nitrogen to the starch or butanediol bread. Caloric intake was kept constant during the periods. Nitrogen balance technique was utilized. Blood samples were obtained before and after each period and many blood constituents were determined. Substitution of BD for starch produced a less negative nitrogen balance. Urea feeding with or without BD also produced a less negative nitrogen balance. No significant alterations were detected in serum proteins, blood counts, hemoglobin, transaminase enzymes, ketoacids, electrolytes, cations, cholesterol, triglycerides or fatty acids. Butanediol feeding decreased blood glucose significantly and urea feeding increased (within normal range, however) blood urea nitrogen. Results are compared to animal studies, and the potential role of butanediol and urea in human nutrition is discussed.