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Potassium supplementation, serum immunoreactive insulin concentrations and glucose tolerance in protein-energy
Insights
Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) in children impairs insulin secretion, potentially due to potassium depletion. Supplementing potassium during treatment improved serum insulin levels, supporting this link.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pediatrics
- Endocrinology
Background:
- Protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) is a significant health issue in children.
- PEM can affect various metabolic processes, including glucose metabolism and hormone secretion.
- Previous studies suggest a link between malnutrition and altered insulin dynamics.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the relationship between serum immunoreactive insulin (IRI) and glucose disappearance rates in children with PEM.
- To determine the effect of potassium levels on insulin secretion during recovery from PEM.
- To test the hypothesis that potassium depletion contributes to impaired insulin release in PEM.
Main Methods:
- Serum immunoreactive insulin (IRI) concentrations were measured in children with PEM on admission and during recovery.
- Glucose disappearance rate-constants were assessed after intravenous glucose administration.
- Potassium intake and serum levels were monitored throughout the treatment period.
Main Results:
- Children with PEM exhibited altered serum IRI concentrations and glucose disappearance rates.
- A high potassium intake during treatment led to a significant increase in serum IRI levels.
- A strong correlation was observed between potassium depletion and impaired insulin secretion measurements.
Conclusions:
- Impaired insulin release in children with PEM is, in part, attributable to potassium depletion.
- Potassium supplementation may be a crucial factor in restoring normal insulin secretion during PEM recovery.
- Addressing electrolyte imbalances, particularly potassium, is vital in the management of pediatric malnutrition.
Abstract:
The serum immunoreactive insulin (IRI) concentrations, and glucose dissappearance rate-constants after intravenous glucose administration were measured on admission and during recovery in children suffering from protein-energy malnutrition (PEM). 2. A high potassium intake resulted in a considerable increase in the serum IRI levels early in the treatment period. There was a definite relationship between potassium depletion and many measurements of insulin secretion. 3. The results are consistent with the hypothesis that impaired insulin release in children suffering from PEM is partly the result of potassium depletion.