Abstract
Ingestion of a purified ration containing 4% glucoascorbic acid resulted in a significant retardation in growth and occurrence of severe diarrhea in the immature rat. These effects were completely counteracted by concurrent administration of dried alfalfa and other succulent plants. The protective factor in alfalfa was retained in the alfalfa residue fraction (water washed pulp remaining after extraction of the juice). Supplements of all known nutrients were without significant effect.