Effect of nanometer pearl powder on calcium absorption and utilization in rats

The calcium absorption and utilization in rats fed nanometer pearl powders diets was evaluated. The bone and serum calcium content, femur weight and length of rats fed the pearl powders diets was higher (P < 0.05) than those of rats fed the basic laboratory chow diet with low content of calcium. These parameters were significantly lower in rats fed nanometer pearl powders diets compared with those in rats fed micrometer pearl powders diets (P < 0.05). The results indicate that nanometer pearl powders diets may significantly increase calcium bioavailability and have important nutritional benefits based on the evaluation in the rats growth and development model. (C) 2008 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.