Loss of Carbohydrate Metabolism Factor During Boiling of Vegetables. ∗

Abstract

Conclusions and Summary

A loss of the carbohydrate metabolism factor takes place during the boiling of vegetables in an open vessel. This makes plausible the possibility that some deficiency of this factor occurs in many human dietaries. Since its lack causes abnormal fat formation and a disturbance of the carbohydrate metabolism of rats, it seems reasonable to consider a possible dietary deficiency of this factor in the study of prediabetic obesity.

Abnormally high respiratory quotients during carbohydrate assimilation are given by rats that have been maintained on a diet of boiled vegetables. This indicates a loss of an appreciable part of the carbohydrate metabolism factor which the vegetables contain in the unboiled condition.

The question is raised as to a possible causative connection of a dietary deficiency of this factor with prediabetic obesity.