Effects of Ascaris infection on human nutrition

Am J Trop Med Hyg. 1971 Mar;20(2):212-8. doi: 10.4269/ajtmh.1971.20.212.

Abstract

PIP: The role of Ascaris lumbricoides infection in human nutrition was investigated in 12 children 5-10 years of age. Daily levels of dietary protein intake varied from 1-2.8 g/kg body weight but were kept constant for each child as was caloric intake. Nitrogen, fat balance, and d-xylose absorption determinations were done before and after deworming. A mean reduction in fecal nitrogen excretion of 230 mg/day was noted after worm removal. In 7 children harboring 48 or more parasites, the reduction in fecal nitrogen amounted to 7.2% of the dietary nitrogen. In 3 children receiving 1 g of protein/kg body weight, the improved nitrogen absorption after deworming led to an increased nitrogen retention. In 8 children the infection was associated with moderate steatorrhea (13.4% of dietary fat) and impairment of d-xylose absorption; the former was markedly reduced, and the latter was partially improved following treatment. It is concluded that Ascaris infection in children can lead to marked nutritional impairment when a high parasite load is associated with a low protein intake.

MeSH terms

  • Ascariasis / complications*
  • Ascariasis / metabolism
  • Carbohydrate Metabolism
  • Celiac Disease / etiology
  • Child
  • Child, Preschool
  • Feces / analysis
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Intestinal Diseases / etiology
  • Malabsorption Syndromes / etiology*
  • Male
  • Nitrogen / analysis
  • Nutrition Disorders / etiology*
  • Protein Deficiency / etiology
  • Xylose

Substances

  • Xylose
  • Nitrogen