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The effect of starvation on skeletal muscle function in man
C Lennmarken1, S Sandstedt, H V Schenck
1Department of Anaesthesiology, University Hospital, S-581 85 Linköping, Sweden.
Clinical Nutrition (Edinburgh, Scotland)
|May 1, 1986
Summary
Measuring skeletal muscle function after starvation revealed significant alterations. However, these changes were too minor for practical diagnostic use in detecting short-term nutritional depletion.
Area of Science:
- Human Physiology
- Nutritional Science
- Muscle Physiology
Background:
- Skeletal muscle function is a potential indicator for malnutrition.
- Assessing muscle function may offer diagnostic insights into nutritional status.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate if skeletal muscle function changes can serve as a diagnostic aid for malnutrition.
- To investigate the impact of short-term total starvation on muscle function and nutritional indices.
Main Methods:
- 11 lean women underwent 5 days of total starvation.
- Skeletal muscle function was assessed via hand grip strength and adductor pollicis muscle response to ulnar nerve stimulation.
- Muscle function variables included contraction force, relaxation rate, and endurance.
- Anthropometric and biochemical nutritional markers were also monitored.
Main Results:
- Hand grip strength decreased, and adductor pollicis muscle function showed altered contraction force, slower relaxation, and reduced endurance.
- These functional changes, though statistically significant, remained within normal ranges.
- Triceps skin fold and arm muscle circumference did not change significantly despite a mean weight loss of 3.3 kg.
- Blood glucose, insulin, and triiodothyronine levels decreased, indicating metabolic adaptation.
- Prealbumin and fibronectin levels were also reduced.
Conclusions:
- Five days of total starvation significantly altered skeletal muscle function.
- The observed changes in muscle function were not substantial enough for clinical use in diagnosing short-term nutritional depletion.