The levels and correlation analysis of trace elements in maternal blood, breast milk and infant blood

Abstract

Objective To investigate the correlation of trace elements in maternal blood, breast milk and infant blood. Methods A tomic absorption spectrographic method was used to measure blood and milk trace elements [calcium (Ca), ferrum (Fe), zinc (Zn), magnesium (Mg), copper(Cu)] of maternal of natural delivery and infant in 250 cases, then to analyze the correlation of trace elements in maternal blood, breast milk and infant blood in postpartum 42 days. Results There were statistically significant differences in trace elements between the maternal blood, breast milk and infant blood (P<0.05). There was a positive correlation of Ca, and Fe between maternal blood and infant blood [Ca (r=0.221, P=0.047), Fe (r=0.107, P=0.043)]; Fe had a positive correlation between breast milk and infant blood (r=0.139 P=0.035); There was a positive correlation of the trace elements between maternal blood and milk, but no correlation in Mg. Conclusions There was the gradient of trace elements in maternal blood and breast milk in postpartum 42 days. It can keep breast milk in a certain percentage of trace element and contribute to absorption of trace elements and growth and development in infant. The regular determination of trace elements during pregnancy and postpartum in women and their infant can direct a balanced diet and advocate breastfeeding. It can also prevent the lack of calcium, iron, zinc and other trace elements in infant. Key words: Trace elements/ME; Infant; Parturition/ME