Positive N-Balance
Nitrogen in > Nitrogen Out
The person is gaining body protein. Positive Nitrogen balance occurs during periods of growth, including pregnancy, with protein repletion therapy, and with weight lifting exercise that builds muscle. |
Negative N-Balance
Nitrogen in < Nitrogen Out
The person is losing body protein. Negative nitrogen balance is an undesirable state that occurs with weight loss, traumatic injury and some illnesses. |