Nitrogen balance
Nitrogen Balance
Nitrogen balance (pronounced: /ˈnaɪtrədʒən ˈbæləns/) is a measure in biochemistry used to determine the total amount of nitrogen entering the body in comparison to the total amount of nitrogen leaving the body. It is a concept used in both nutrition and medicine to assess protein metabolism.
Etymology
The term "nitrogen balance" is derived from the chemical element Nitrogen (from the Greek 'nitron' and 'genes' meaning nitre-forming) and the Middle English 'balance', from the Old French, from Latin 'bilanx', from 'bi-' (two) + 'lanx' (dish of a balance).
Concept
The concept of nitrogen balance is based on the fact that protein is the only macronutrient containing nitrogen. Therefore, by measuring the intake and excretion of nitrogen, one can estimate the body's protein metabolism. A positive nitrogen balance indicates that the body is retaining more nitrogen than it is excreting, suggesting an anabolic state with muscle growth. A negative nitrogen balance indicates that the body is excreting more nitrogen than it is taking in, suggesting a catabolic state with muscle breakdown.
Related Terms
- Protein metabolism: The process by which the body uses and manages proteins.
- Anabolic state: A state in which new molecules are synthesized in the body.
- Catabolic state: A state in which molecules are broken down in the body.
- Macronutrient: A type of food required in large amounts in the diet.
- Biochemistry: The study of chemical processes within and relating to living organisms.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Nitrogen balance
- Wikipedia's article - Nitrogen balance
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