Resting metabolic rate (A and C) and efficiency of food consumption (B and D) were measured in experimental animals at the end of the study. Resting metabolic rate (ml/kg/h) is calculated as the average of the lowest 3 readings obtained during the recording period. Efficiency of food consumption is calculated as the cumulative weight gain (in grams) divided by total food consumption (in grams). Results are expressed as means ± SD.