1. Alice is a 70 year old woman with low vitamin D levels who recently broke a hip. She has osteoporosis. She was given several medications to try to improve bone density, however, they were unsuccessful as she could not tolerate the medications. What hormone might she be given to treat the osteoporosis? How does this medication help? How would this be effected by a low TSH?
2, Darren is a 15 year old, tall for his age, but he wants to build more muscle. He decides that he will eat only protein foods, because he says, muscle is protein, so protein will make protein, and the more protein, the more muscle. In part he is correct, and in part incorrect. Explain, and name the hormones involved in protein metabolism; state how each affects protein metabolism.
3. Kay and Lucia are best friends and enjoy spending time together over the holidays decorating and preparing for visits by their extended family. Kay recently visited her physician for an annual check-up and received news that she was pre-diabetic and that she should monitor her calorie intake, especially with the holidays close at hand. Kay was troubled by the news but Lucia was even more so since she had been admonishing Kay for unhealthy eating and exercise habits for years. Lucia was also particularly distressed because she has worn an insulin pump since she was nine years old. Kays remark about the news was, Well, Lucia, this is great, now I can be even more like you!
Using your knowledge of the endocrine system explain how Kays comment is correct but also how the types of diabetes they each have (or are at risk of having in Kays case) differ. What nutrition and exercise related habits might put Kay at increased risk for developing diabetes? How can healthcare providers help Kay reduce her risk of diabetes?
