The effect and site of action of potassium upon magnesium absorption in sheep

Abstract

The effect of potassium chloride infusion to the rumen or duodenum of sheep upon the absorption of magnesium from the stomach and intestinal regions has been examined. Three Merino ewes, each prepared with a cannula into the rumen and a re-entrant cannula into the duodenum, were offered a basal diet (control) which provided 46.3–51.1 mmoles magnesium and 299–320 mmoles potassium per day. Potassium chloride (500–800 mmoles/day) was infused continuously to either the rumen or duodenum. Digesta fluid flows were estimated from the dilution of a Cr-EDTA solution continuously infused to the rumen. Potassium infusion to either gastrointestinal site led to a comparable increase in the water intake, urine volume and levels of plasma and urinary potassium. Infusion to the rumen caused a marked increase in the potassium levels and a decrease in sodium levels in rumen fluid, as well as an increase in the rumen fluid to blood bioelectrical potential. No effect of treatment on digesta fluid flows was observed. Net magnesium absorption was lowered only when potassium was infused to the rumen, and the reduction was almost entirely due to reduced absorption of magnesium from the stomach. There was no consistent effect on absorption of magnesium from the intestines. Plasma magnesium levels were lowered by both the intraruminal infusion and, to a lesser extent, the duodenal infusion of potassium. The results indicate that although one consequence of potassium ingestion by sheep may be an enhancement of the urinary excretion of magnesium, the major effect on magnesium metabolism is a substantial reduction of absorption of magnesium from the reticulorumen.