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Seventeen subjects were maintained on a constant electrolyte and fluid intake during periods of equilibration, starvation and refeeding. During 3 days of fasting, a mean daily weight loss of 800 g was accompanied by progressive natriuresis and kaliuresis without increase in urine volume. The net amount of sodium excreted as a consequence of fasting was independent of the amount of sodium supplemented. Carbohydrate refeeding induces very rapid antidiuresis of sodium and potassium. Protein has a delayed action, while fat refeeding aggravates the negative sodium balance. The sodium retaining action of carbohydrate requires a pre-existing metabolic setting induced by starvation. Bicarbonate supplementation during fasting does not alter the pattern of sodium excretion. The data suggest that the sodium retaining action of carbohydrate after brief starvation is not secondary to aldosterone, glucocorticosteroids or changes in catecholamine levels.
Veverbrants et al. (Wed,) studied this question.