Effects of Sodium Alginate on Absorption and Deposition of Radioactive Cations in the Chick ∗ †

Summary

Data from an investigation of the effects of sodium alginate on the intestinal absorption and skeletal deposition of orally administered Sr⁸⁹ and Ca⁴⁵ indicated that sodium alginate was not effective in selectively inhibiting the absorption of Sr⁸⁹ while permitting Ca⁴³ to proceed unhindered. The skeletal deposition of Sr⁸⁹ was essentially unchanged, whereas, Ca⁴⁵ deposition was reduced by increased amounts of dietary sodium alginate. An amount of dietary kelp equivalent to 1% sodium alginate decreased Ca⁴⁵ deposition, but increased Sr⁸⁹ deposition.