[Body composition during the first two years of life: analysis with the potassium 40 method (author's transl)].

The potassium 40 method was used to determine the total amount of potassium in 51 premature babies, 52 newborns, and 24 infants. The mean body composition was calculated from the total amount of potassium and the body surface for various age groups via the method presented. Changes in body composition during the first two years of life and its significance for energy exchange were discussed.