The effects of diets with different amount of potassium alginate (K-Alg) on blood pressure, lipid metabolism and mineral balance were investigated in male spontaneously hypertensive rats fed a 1% NaCl diet for 3 weeks. 1) Although no difference was observed in serum total cholesterol levels of all dietary groups, HDL-cholesterol of 5% K-Alg group significantly increased. The anti-atherogenic index and serum K levels were increased with the dietary dose of K-Alg. The lowest total liver

more »

... l concentration was observed in 3% K-Alg groups. 2) Blood pressure of 10% K-Alg group markedly decreased immediately after feeding experimental diets, while that of control slightly increased. The significant difference between control and all of experimental groups was observed in blood pressure after two weeks of experimental period. 3) Fecal dry weight and food intake during last 2 days in metabolic cage increased in proportional to the dietary level of K-Alg. Fecal excretion of Na increased in 5 and 10% K-Alg groups than the control. Urinary K excretion increased in all K-Alg groups. Retention of K, Ca, Mg was positive. 4) Highly negative correlations between blood pressure and serum K or urinary K were obtained. Positive correlation was observed between blood pressure and serum Na/K ratio. It appeared likely that the suppression of blood pressure of SHR by K-Alg may be due to inhibited Na+ absorption, enhanced K+ absorption and increased serum K+ derived from Nal-/K+ ion-exchanges by K-Alg in digestive tract.