Positive nitrogen balance
In which situation is a person most likely to be in positive nitrogen balance?
Answer D: explanation for every choice
A
Starvation breaks down muscle protein, so excretion exceeds intake.
B
Glucocorticoids break down muscle protein to supply amino acids for gluconeogenesis, so nitrogen excretion exceeds intake.
C
Insulin deficiency increases protein breakdown.
D
Correct. Building new tissue (the fetus, placenta, and expanded maternal tissues) means nitrogen intake exceeds excretion. Growth in childhood works the same way.
TakeawayPositive nitrogen balance: building tissue. Negative: breaking it down.
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Reviewed 2026-11-05 by a medical student. Spot an error? Report it with question ID bb124.