Effect of Dietary Restriction of Pregnant Rats on Body Weight Gain of the Offspring

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Abstract
The effect of dietary restriction on various parameters of nutriture has been reported by a number of investigators. In all these studies, the restriction was imposed at various ages after birth. Our present study utilizes the method of dietary restriction but differs from others in that the restriction was imposed on the mother during either the gestation or lactation periods, or both. Its effect on the body weight gain and other characteristics of the offspring are reported. Restriction during gestation and lactation of the dietary intake of the rats by as little as 25% of that consumed by the unrestricted group, resulted in growth stunting of the progenies, anemia and a decreased resistance to hypothermia. Similar effects were observed when the dietary restriction was imposed during the period of gestation only. These adverse effects could be corrected by pituitary extract or growth hormone when the hormone was administered shortly after weaning, but not 3 months after birth.