HYDROXYPROLINE EXCRETION DURING STARVATION OF OBESE SUBJECTS

Hydroxyproline excretion was measured in 12 obese subjects during starvation. There was a consistent rise after the first week of starvation, and refeeding with low calorie, low hydroxyproline diets failed to affect the increased hydroxyproline excretion. Potassium supplementation in 2 subjects eating 300-600 calories caused a striking fall in hydroxyproline levels. Plasma growth hormone levels during fasting in 2 subjects were not elevated. It was concluded that the elevated hydroxyproline excretion during starvation and refeeding could arise from the collagenous supporting structures of fat and other tissues and that bone was not the major source since the excretion of calcium and pyrophosphate was not excessive. © 1968.