Abstract
Somatomedin C (Sm-C) is supposed to be a sensitive marker of malnutrition. Its relationship to growth and protein intake was investigated in 47 Moroccan children. The children (mean age: 7.5 ± 2 yr) had no endocrine abnormality. Anthropometric parameters were measured, together with blood levels of Sm-C and growth hormone (GH). Lower values of Sm-C were found in the following situations: ( a) growth retardation ( more than −2 Sd, N = 23; Sm-C = 3.61 ± 0.42 nmol l vs. 13.38 ± 1.52, P < 0.02) ; ( b) body weight less than 80% of expected weight for height ( N = 8; Sm-C = 4.84 ± 0.97 vs. 10.33 ± 1.19, P < 0.02); ( c) boys with meat consumption less than 3 times per wk ( N = 15; Sm-C = 4.03 ± 0.71 vs. 12.35 ± 2.01, P < 0.002). Thus, lower values of Sm-C are found in association with weight insufficiency and lower protein intake. As has previously been assumed, serum Sm-C, which is regulated by nutrition, may be a sensitive tool in the assessment of nutritional status in developing countries such as Morocco. Furthermore, it could explain some cases of growth retardation in states of malnutrition.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
