The effect of zinc supplementation on mental health in overweight/obese patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial

Abstract

BackgroundZinc deficiency is common in patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and evidence indicates the role of zinc as an antioxidant and improvement in insulin resistance in obesity and type 2 diabetes. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of zinc supplementation on mental health among overweight/obese patients with NAFLD. MethodsFifty- seven overweight/obese subjects with confirmed non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) were randomly allocated to treatment (30 mg/day supplement) or placebo groups under a calorie restricted diet for 12 weeks. Mental health was assessed using a valid 21-item questionnaire, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale (DASS-21). Anthropometric measurements, food assessment, and mental health were assessed at the first, 6th, and 12th weeks. Serum zinc was assessed at the beginning and end of the intervention. ResultsA total of 50 participants completed the study. Serum zinc deficiency was significantly compensated in the treatment group (P<0.05). Although the DASS-21 depression, anxiety, and stress scores decreased significantly during the intervention, after adjusting for confounder factors, no significant differences were seen between the two groups. After 12 weeks, only waist circumference decreased significantly in the treatment group compared to the placebo group (P<0.05). ConclusionsThe study showed daily intake of 30 mg of zinc elemental improves zinc deficiency and waist circumference in patients with NAFLD. However, further clinical trial studies with a longer duration, dose-dependent and considering gender and severity of mood disorders are needed to clarify the effect of zinc supplementation on depression, anxiety, and stress in overweight/obese patients with NAFLD [IR.MUI.RESEARCH.REC.1399.071].