Distinguish among marasmus, kwashiorkor, anorexia nervosa, and bulimia.

Solution

Verified

Answered 8 months ago

Marasmus develops because of the poor nutrient intake. That causes the dissolving of proteins in order to obtain energy for metabolic processes. Children under two years old can even die of infectious diseases because their immune system is impaired. Their antibodies are dissolved into amino acids, which are used in metabolic processes for obtaining energy. Weight loss is severe, even their bones are clearly visible. The onset is gradual. Kwashiorkor usually occurs in babies when they are switched from mother's milk, which is rich in proteins, to the protein-poor gruel. This form of starvation is characterized by ascites in their abdomen because their plasma proteins are low. Onset is rapid. Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are types of eating disorders. People who suffer from anorexia nervosa don't eat because they have a fear of becoming fat. Their food intake is lower, so their intestine muscles weaken which impairs the functioning of the gastrointestinal tract. The food stays in the bowels for a longer period of time than needed in a healthy individual, which leads to bloating. People who develop bulimia usually have normal weight. They exaggerate in food intake and then manage to reduce the calories by provoking vomiting, using laxatives or by overdoing physical activity.