Intestinal Absorption of Sugars, Water and Sodium in Alloxan Diabetic Rats

Jejunal and ileal absorption of D-galactose, 3-methyl-D-glucose, D-xylose, sodium and water were studied in vivo in normal and alloxan diabetic rats. Contrary to previous studies, there was no consistent increase in sugar absorption in diabetic over normal rats. Diabetic rats absorbed significantly more sodium and water than normals, probably on the basis of diabetes-induced dehydration, but the increased sodium absorption did not stimulate increased sugar absorption. Diabetic rats, as did normal rats, showed increased jejunal over ileal sugar absorption but salt and water absorption were not different between the intestinal segments.