Question

Based on your understanding of nitrogen balance identify which condition exists in each of the following examples:

a. An anorexic patient is rapidly losing skeletal muscle tissue.

b. A weight lifter who is increasing lean body mass.

c. A pregnant woman proceeding through a healthy pregnancy.

d. A serious burn victim who is receiving protein supplements but still losing weight

Answer 1

Answer A:) Negative nitrogen balance

The anorexic patient gains fewer nutrients than normal people do. Therefore, Nitrogen intake is also reduced and hence the person has a negative nitrogen balance.

Answer B:) Positive nitrogen balance

To gain lean body mass, a nitrogenous diet is necessary to maintain in which minimum protein intake is mandatory. Therefore, the weight lifter has a positive nitrogen balance.

Answer C:) Positive nitrogen balance

A healthy pregnancy cannot gain without a proper diet. Therefore, the female must have a good nitrogen balance.

Answer D:) Negative nitrogen balance

The burnt patient loses the tendency to utilize protein supplements because the patient is in shock. The body refuses the digestion system. Therefore, the patient has a negative nitrogen balance.