Food stimulated release of IRI and HGH in children with malabsorption (author's transl)

Malnutrition may cause to the damage intestinal epithelium and pancreas resulting in overt signs of malabsorption syndrome. The diet protein, fats and carbohydrates stimulate secretion, CCK-P, GIP, and gastrin release and effect insulin and HGH release. The amounts of the hormones released depends on intestinal absorption and pancreas secretory function. Therefore, in undernourished children with malabsorption syndrome on impaired function of the hormonal entero-insular axis is likely. In 30 children hormonal component of malnutrition was studied. Digestion and absorption were assayed by glycemic levels and FFA, with hydroxyprolinuria studies following administration of the mixed test meal. HGH and IRI levels were measured following mixed test meal stimulation. Hormonal studies data were correlated with digestion and absorption indices. In undernourished children low levels of HGH and IRI were frequently found. In certain patients with malnutrition the administration of anabolic drugs seems to be advisable.