Question

Explanation of factors that could lead to negative nitrogen balance

Answer 1

Nitrogen balance refers to difference between nitrogen input to nitrogen loss

That is, nitrogen balance = nitrogen intake -nitrogen loss

There are many foods sources of nitrogen like legumes, meat, grains, cereals , dairy products etc. Whereas nitrogen losses through urine, feces, sweat, and skin

Diagnosis of nitrogen imbalance by testing the blood urea nitrogen level

Positive nitrogen balance means the nitrogen intake is greater than the nitrogen losses. It is mainly seen during pregnancy, growth periods, tissue repair etc

Negative nitrogen balance means the nitrogen intake is lesser than the nitrogen losses. this can occur in cases of serious tissue injuries, hyperthyroidism, fasting, etc. Negative nitrogen balance is a clinical evaluation of malnutrition

The release of adrenal cortical hormones like cortisone , during stress enhances the breakdown of proteins to produce glucose. This also causes negative nitrogen balance. This is because during stress and vigorous activities there is an increased need for glucose to be metabolised in order to produce sufficient energy. To obtain this breakdown of protein into aminoacids from which glucose is produced.