2. Methods
2.1. Experimental design
Single Comb White Leghorn hens aged approximately 80 week were obtained from a commercial laying facility. They were placed in wire layer cages (2 per cage), provided ad libitumaccess to layer ration and water, subjected to an 8:16 lighting schedule, and acclimated for two weeks. Birds were randomly assigned to three treatments (12 birds/ group):ad libitumaccess to layer ration (non-molted control), ad libitum access to alfalfa, and feed deprivation. All treatments were provided to the birds for nine days. Blood samples were taken on day 8 for serum triglyceride analysis. Approximately 10 ml of blood was taken from each hen through the jugular vein and collected in coagulation tubes. Blood triglyceride analysis was performed as described previously On day nine, the 12 birds in each treatment were sacrificed by cervical dislocation. Organ weights were taken and expressed as a percentage of body weight on the following organs: liver, spleen, heart, intestine, ovary, pancreas, and kidney