Zinc status of a group of pregnant Spanish women: Effects on anthropometric data and Apgar scores of neonates

Abstract

The aim of the present investigation was to evaluate zinc intake during the third trimester of pregnancy and to analyze their relationship with serum zinc levels, anthropometric data and neonate vitality. Zinc intake during the third trimester of pregnancy was determined in 82 pregnant women by recording their consumption of foods over a five day period, and by calculation of the quantity of this element provided by dietary supplements. Anthropometric data were monitored throughout pregnancy. Zinc levels in maternal serum were determined by atomic absorption spectroscopy. Anthropometric data of neonates were taken at the time of birth and vitality was recorded as 1st and 5th minute Apgar scores. During pregnancy, all subjects showed zinc intakes lower than those recommended. Only one subject took a supplement that provided extra zinc (1 mg/d). Subjects with zinc intakes < 12 mg/d (percentile 75th) showed lower serum zinc levels and produced offspring with smaller thoracic circumferences and poorer 1st minute Apgar scores. They also had shorter pregnancies than did subjects who took ⩾ 12 mg zinc per day. Further, the newborns of subjects with < 12.2 μmol/L serum zinc during the third trimester showed lower birth weights (3158+232 g) than did those of subjects with higher zinc levels (3370+571 g). Zinc intake during pregnancy affects the concentration of this mineral at serum level. It also influences a range of anthropometric parameters and newborn vitality. Given that the zinc intake of all subjects was below recommended, it would seem advisable that zinc intake be monitored and improved.