Dietary Zinc Intake Research Articles

Exploring the link between dietary zinc intake and endometriosis risk: insights from a cross-sectional analysis of American women

BackgroundEndometriosis is a complex disorder with genetic, immune, inflammatory, and multifactorial etiologies. Zinc, an essential trace element, plays a crucial role in various physiological processes. Dysregulation or deficiency of zinc can lead to aberrations in human physiology. However, the association between dietary zinc and endometriosis remains ambiguous. This study aimed to investigate the link between dietary zinc intake and endometriosis.MethodsUtilizing cross-sectional data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, we analyzed information from American women aged 20–54 years between 1999 and 2006. After adjusting for relevant covariates, multivariable logistic regression analysis was employed to assess correlations.ResultsA total of 4315 women were included in the study. The multivariable logistic regression model revealed a positive correlation between dietary zinc intake and the risk of endometriosis, even after controlling for confounding variables. Relative to individuals with lower zinc consumption (≤ 8 mg/day), the adjusted odds ratio (OR) values for dietary zinc intake and endometriosis in the 8–14 mg/day and > 14 mg/day groups were 1.19 (95% CI: 0.92–1.54, p = 0.189) and 1.60 (95% CI: 1.12–2.27, p = 0.009), respectively.ConclusionsOur findings suggest a positive correlation between dietary zinc intake and the prevalence of endometriosis. However, further investigations are necessary to better understand this association and explore the potential role of dietary zinc in endometriosis.

Effects of zinc supplementation on sleep quality in humans: A systematic review of randomized controlled trials.

Alternative therapies, such as zinc supplementation, have been explored as potential interventions for sleep disorders. However, the efficacy of zinc supplementation inimproving sleep quality remains uncertain. This systematic review aims to examine the impacts ofzinc supplementation on sleep qualityin humans. The Web of Science, Medline, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were comprehensively searched to find studies investigating the effect of zinc supplementation on sleep quality. After identifying relevant studies byscreening, relevant data were extracted from them. The quality assessment was conducted using the Cochrane quality assessment tool. This systematic review included eight studies. The interventions ranged from 4 to 48 weeks, with a daily dose of zinc supplementation varying between 10 and 73.3 mg. The majority of the evidence examined in this review pointed to the significant improvement effect of zinc supplementation on sleep quality in adults compared to the control groups. Furthermore, zinc supplementation did not have a significant effect on sleep disorders. However, there was no consensus about these findings. Also, the effect of supplementation on sleep duration in nonadults was contradictory. This systematic review suggests that zinc supplementation may lead to improvements in sleep quality. However, more research, primarily clinical trials, is needed to clarify the beneficial effects of zinc supplementation on sleep quality with consideration of dietary zinc intake and the Recommended Dietary Allowancesof zinc (RDA) in the different populations. It is also recommended to investigate the effect of zinc supplementation on sleep quality in people with zinc deficiency in future studies.

The association between dietary zinc intake and osteopenia, osteoporosis in patients with rheumatoid arthritis

BackgroundDiet has been shown to be associated with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), of which osteoporosis is the most common and important complication, and zinc has been shown to inhibit the inflammatory response, but studies on the relationship between dietary zinc and osteoporosis in patients with RA are limited and inconclusive. In this study, we aimed to explore the relationship between dietary zinc intake and osteoporosis or osteopenia in patients with RA.MethodsData on RA patients were derived from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2007 to 2010, 2013 to 2014, and 2017 to 2020. Weighted univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were performed to explore the association between dietary zinc intake and osteoporosis or osteopenia in RA patients. The relationship was further investigated in different age, body mass index (BMI), nonsteroidal use, dyslipidemia, diabetes, and hypertension population. All results were presented as odds ratios (ORs) and confidence intervals (CIs).ResultsIn total, 905 RA patients aged ≥ 40 years were included. After adjusting all covariates, higher dietary zinc intake was associated with lower odds of osteopenia or osteoporosis (OR = 0.39, 95%CI: 0.18–0.86) in RA patients. The relationship between dietary zinc intake ≥ 19.52 mg and lower odds of osteopenia or osteoporosis were also found in those aged ≥ 60 years (OR = 0.38, 95%CI: 0.16–0.91), BMI normal or underweight (OR = 0.16, 95%CI: 0.03–0.84), nonsteroidal use (OR = 0.14, 95%CI: 0.02–0.82), dyslipidemia (OR = 0.40, 95%CI: 0.17–0.92), diabetes (OR = 0.37, 95%CI: 0.14–0.95), and hypertension (OR = 0.37, 95%CI: 0.16–0.86).ConclusionHigher dietary zinc intake was associated with reduced incidence of osteopenia or osteoporosis in patients with RA. Further longitudinal and randomized trials are necessary to validate our findings and explore the underling mechanisms. Adequate dietary zinc intake may beneficial to the bone health in RA patients.

Household food expenditures and socioeconomic status in relation to dietary nutrient intake in Iranian families

PurposeExamining the impact of socioeconomic status (SES) and expenses spent on food preparation on nutritional intake has always been one of the critical concerns for policymakers. This study aims to investigate the association between household food expenditure as well as SES and dietary nutrient intake in Kermanshah, Iran.Design/methodology/approachIn this cross-sectional study, households were randomly selected from different strict in Kermanshah, Iran. Data were collected with an SES questionnaire, a demographic data collection form, a weekly food purchase checklist and a food record. The authors performed the analysis of covariance to determine the relationship of dietary nutrient intake of study participants across quintile categories of SES and total food expenses per day.FindingsOut of 125 households, 119 households including 401 people finished the study. A significant association was observed between higher SES and higher intake of vitamin B2 (p-value = 0.03). Moreover, the household members at the top level of total food expenses per day had significantly greater dietary nutrient intake of energy (p < 0.001), potassium (p < 0.001), magnesium (p < 0.001), calcium (p < 0.001), zinc (p < 0.001), vitamin B2 (p < 0.001), B6 (p < 0.001), B12 (p = 0.002) and vitamin C (p = 0.04).Originality/valueIn our study, higher dietary nutrient intake was observed in the household members at the highest level of total food expenses daily as well as SES. Therefore, governments and policymakers should pay basic attention to optimizing food costs and improving the economic status of people.

Association between dietary copper, iron, zinc, selenium intake and osteopenia or osteoporosis in elderly hypertensive patients: a retrospective cohort study.

The study aimed to investigate the link between dietary copper, iron, zinc, selenium intake with osteopenia and osteoporosis in elderly hypertensive patients. The data of hypertensive patients were extracted from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2005-2010, 2013-2014, and 2017-2018. Data of dietary iron, zinc, copper and selenium intakes were obtained according to 24-h diet recall interviews. Osteopenia and osteoporosis were determined based on the bone mineral density. Weighted liner regression and weighted logistic regression were employed to assess the association between iron, zinc, copper, and selenium intakes with osteopenia and osteoporosis. All results were presented as β, odds ratios (ORs), and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). In total, 5,286 elderly hypertensive patients were included. Among them, 2,961 (56.02%) patients have osteopenia, and 566 (10.71%) have osteoporosis. After adjusting all covariates, dietary copper intake ≥the recommended daily allowance was positively correlated with bone mineral density on total femur (β = 0.086, 95% CI: 0.021-0.152) and femoral neck (β = 0.097, 95% CI: 0.016-0.178). Dietary zinc intake ≥the recommended daily allowance was also positively correlated with bone mineral density on total femur (β = 0.092, 95% CI: 0.030-0.153) and femoral neck (β = 0.122, 95% CI: 0.050-0.193). Dietary copper (O = 0.581, 95% CI: 0.394-0.858) and zinc (OR = 0.595, 95% CI: 0.429-0.827) intake ≥the recommended daily allowance levels were related to increased odds of osteoporosis in elderly with hypertension. Higher dietary copper and zinc intake was associated with lower odds of osteoporosis in the elderly hypertensive patients. Higher dietary intake included copper and zinc may be beneficial for the bone health in the elderly hypertensive patients.

Dietary Zinc Intake and the Association of Insulin Level and HOMA-IR with Telomere Shortening in Mexican Children.

The relationship between dietary zinc (Zn) intake, metabolic diseases, and telomere length has been little explored in the children population. This observational cross-sectional study assesses the association between obesity (OB), cardiometabolic traits, telomere length, and dietary Zn intake in children with normal weight (NW) and OB from Mexico City. Anthropometric data, blood pressure, biochemical measurements, the homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA-IR) and leucocyte telomere length (determined by quantitative-PCR) were analyzed in 171 children with NW and 172 with OB. Furthermore, dietary Zn intake was evaluated in 117 children NW and 120 with OB. Telomere shortening was associated with fasting plasma insulin (FPI) and HOMA-IR in NW (beta coefficient [β]FPI = -0.022 ± 0.008, p = 0.009; βHOMA-IR = -0.096 ± 0.040, p = 0.020) and OB (βFPI = -0.007 ± 0.002,p = 0.003; βHOMA-IR = -0.034 ± 0.012,p = 0.005) children. Dietary Zn intake resulted negatively associated with FPI (β = -2.418 ± 0.764, p = 0.002) and HOMA-IR (β = -0.399 ± 0.014, p = 0.009) in children with OB. Then, in children with OB, the association between FPI, HOMA-IR, and telomere shortening was evaluated separately in groups of low, medium, and high dietary Zn intake (according to tertiles). The association between FPI, HOMA-IR, and telomere shortening was not significant in the high Zn intake group (PFPI = 0.633; PHOMA-IR = 0.567). Our results suggest that a high Zn intake may ameliorate the telomere shortening related to high FPI and HOMA-IR.

Nonlinear associations between dietary zinc intake and cardiovascular disease risk, a National cross-sectional study based on the NHANES 2005–2018

ObjectiveTo explore the associations between dietary zinc intake and cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), including congestive heart failure (CHF), coronary heart disease (CHD), angina, heart attack, and cerebrovascular accident (CVA), this study was performed. SettingData from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2005–2018) were used in this study. Dietary zinc intake was stratified into quartiles. Restricted cubic splines were constructed to assess nonlinear associations and identify cut-off values based on the type of nonlinearity. Binary logistic regressions were performed using the cut-offs. ResultsPositive associations were detected between the second, third, and fourth quantiles of dietary zinc intake and decreased risks of overall CVDs (Q2: OR = 0.83, 95 % CI = 0.72–0.96; Q3: OR = 0.83, 95 % CI = 0.71–0.96; Q4: OR = 0.79, 95 % CI = 0.67–0.93). The second, third, and fourth quantiles were significantly associated with decreased risks of various CVDs (all P < 0.05), except for CHD and angina (all P > 0.05). Restricted cubic spline regression revealed significant nonlinear trends for associations of dietary zinc intake with the risk of developing CVDs and CHF (both P for nonlinear <0.05), whereas those for heart attack and CVA were marginally significant (P for nonlinear = 0.072, and 0.075, respectively). ConclusionsThis study revealed that high dietary zinc intake is associated with reduced risks of developing CVDs, CHF, heart attack, and CVA, but not CHD or angina.

Association between dietary zinc intake and epilepsy: findings from NHANES 2013-2018 and a Mendelian randomization study.

The association between dietary zinc intake and epilepsy remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between zinc intake from the diet and epilepsy, employing Mendelian randomization (MR) to explore potential causal links between zinc and epilepsy. The cross-sectional study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) conducted between 2013 and 2018. Among the 4,434 participants included, 1.5% (67/4,434) reported having epilepsy. Restricted cubic spline models and logistic regression models were employed to examine the relationships between dietary zinc intakes and epilepsy. Subsequently, a 2-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis was conducted using the inverse variance weighted (IVW) approach as the primary analysis. In the restricted cubic spline (RCS) analysis, the relationship between dietary zinc consumption and epilepsy displayed an L-shaped curve (nonlinear, p = 0.049). After multivariate adjustments, the adjusted odds ratios for epilepsy in T2 (5.0-11.0 mg/day) and T3 (≥11.0 mg/day) were 0.49 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.26-0.92, p = 0.026) and 0.60 (95% CI: 0.31-1.17, p = 0.132), respectively, compared to the lowest dietary zinc consumption tertile (T1, ≤5.0 mg/day). The IVW method indicated that genetically predicted zinc intake per standard-deviation increase was inversely associated with three types of epilepsy, including all types of epilepsy (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.02-1.11, p = 0.008), generalized epilepsy (OR = 1.13, 95% CI: 1.01-1.25, p = 0.030), and focal epilepsy (documented hippocampal sclerosis) (OR = 1.01, 95% CI: 1.00-1.02, p = 0.025). Our findings suggest that a daily zinc intake ranging from 5.0 to 11.0 mg is associated with the lowest risk of epilepsy. Furthermore, Mendelian randomization (MR) studies provide additional support for the existence of a causal relationship between zinc and epilepsy.

Association Between Maternal Copper/Zinc Intake and the Risk of Preterm Birth

Background: The relationship between maternal copper and zinc intake and the risk of preterm birth is unclear Objectives: This study was designed to investigate the effects of daily copper and zinc intake before and during pregnancy on the risk of preterm birth and to assess whether there is an interaction between copper and zinc intake and the risk of preterm birth Methods: A nested case - control study was conducted in Lanzhou, involving 880 cases and 8017 controls. Eligible participants were interviewed about their diet and characteristics during pregnancy. Unconditional logistic regression was used to determine the association between dietary copper and zinc intake and the risk of preterm birth, including its clinical subtypes. A multivariate adjusted restricted cubic spline (RCS) model was used to investigate the nonlinear relationship between dietary copper and zinc intake and the risk of preterm birth. Results: The study revealed that compared to pregnant women with the highest dietary copper intake before and during pregnancy, those with copper intake in the lower three quartiles (quartiles 1, 2, and 3) had increased risks of preterm birth, with adjusted odds ratios (ORs) of 1.05 (0.96 - 1.14), 1.05 (0.93 - 1.18), and 1.04 (0.82 - 1.32), respectively. The trend test yielded significant results (P = 0.013), particularly in late pregnancy, indicating an association between lower copper intake and increased risks of preterm and spontaneous preterm birth. Maternal dietary zinc intake during pregnancy was positively associated with the risk of preterm birth. The adjusted ORs for quartile 2 compared to quartile 4 were 1.29 (1.09 - 1.52), 1.55 (1.13 - 2.12), and 1.20 (1.00 - 1.46) throughout pregnancy, indicating significantly increased risks in the mid to late stages of pregnancy. No significant association was found between zinc intake and medically induced preterm birth. Zinc intake below the nutritional reference value in late pregnancy was significantly associated with an increased risk of preterm birth (P &lt; 0.05). A nonlinear relationship was observed between copper/zinc intake and the risk of preterm birth (P Nonlinear &lt; 0.05). A synergistic effect of low copper and zinc intake on the risk of preterm birth was found (OR: 2.23, 95% CI: 1.64 - 3.04, P &lt; 0.001). Conclusions: Efforts to promote adequate copper and zinc intake before and during pregnancy need to be intensified to reduce the incidence of preterm birth.

The contribution of milk substitutes to the nutritional status of children with cow's milk allergy.

The impact of alternative milk substitutes on the nutritional status of children with cow's milk allergy (CMA), the prevailing cause of food allergies, is unresolved. A cross-sectional study was performed in children older than 2 years with IgE-mediated CMA. Patients' clinical characteristics, anthropometric measurements, dietary intake (by 3-day food diary), and biochemical markers of nutritional status were assessed. One hundred two children with CMA (68.6% boys; median age, 3.7 years; 51% multiple food allergies) were evaluated. 44.1% of the children consumed plant-based beverages (PBB), 19.6% therapeutic formula and 36.3% did not consume any milk substitutes. In all age groups, dietary calcium, riboflavin, and vitamin D intake of those who did not use milk substitutes were lower than those who consumed formula or PBB (p < .01). Also in the 2-3 years old age group, dietary zinc (p = .011) and iron intake (p = .004) of the formula-fed group was higher. Formula-fed patients had higher levels of 25-OH vitamin D (μg/L) and serum vitamin B12 (ng/L) than PBB-fed patients (respectively; p < .001, p = .005) and those who did not consume any milk substitute (p < .001). Patients of all ages who did not utilize a milk substitute failed to obtain an adequate amount of dietary calcium. The use of milk substitutes positively affects dietary calcium, riboflavin, and vitamin D intake in CMA, but their contribution is variable. Those who do not use milk substitutes are at greater risk inadequate of dietary calcium intake. Personalized nutritional advice, given the clinical diversity and the impact of individual differences, is required.

The Association Between Obesity, Mediterranean Diet Adherence, Zinc, Depression and COVID-19 Susceptibility: An observational Study

Objective: Unhealthy lifestyle factors have been associated with COVID-19 susceptibility, but data for diet and related lifestyle factors are conflicting. The objective of this study was to identify whether obesity, Mediterranean diet, Zn or depression could be associated to the risk of COVID-19 occurrence. Methods: This observational case-control study was conducted in Türkiye (between December 2020- September 2021) with face-to-face interview. A total of 100 former COVID-19 subjects as case group and 100 healthy control group, aged 20-54 were included in the study. By semi-structured questionnaire; demographic characteristics and anthropometric measurements was collected. Adherence to the Mediterranean diet was assessed using the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener and Mediterranean Diet Score. Daily dietary zinc intake was calculated using a 25-item food frequency questionnaire and blood samples for zinc levels was obtained from each participant. The level of depression was evaluated by Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale. Results: No differences were found between the anthropometric characteristics of two groups (p.05). Average adherence to the Mediterranean diet were lower in the case groups compared to controls (p

Marginal Zinc Deficiency Promotes Pancreatic Islet Enlargement While Zinc Supplementation Improves the Pancreatic Insulin Response in Zucker Diabetic Fatty Rats.

Zinc deficiency has been associated with the worsening of diabetes while zinc supplementation has been proposed to ameliorate diabetes. This study examined the effects of marginal zinc deficiency (MZD) and zinc supplementation (ZS) on obesity, glycemic control, pancreatic islets, hepatic steatosis and renal function of Zucker diabetic fatty (ZDF) rats. Male ZDF rats were fed an MZD, zinc control (ZC) or ZS diet (4, 30 and 300 mg Zn/kg diet, respectively), and lean Zucker rats were fed a ZC diet for 8 weeks. MZD and ZS did not alter body weight or whole-body composition in ZDF rats. MZD ZDF rats had reduced zinc concentrations in the femur and pancreas, a greater number of enlarged pancreatic islets and a diminished response to an oral glucose load based on a 1.8-fold greater incremental area-under-the-curve (AUC) for glucose compared to ZC ZDF. ZS ZDF rats had elevated serum, femur and pancreatic zinc concentrations, unchanged pancreatic parameters and a 50% reduction in the AUC for insulin compared to ZC ZDF rats, suggesting greater insulin sensitivity. Dietary zinc intake did not alter hepatic steatosis, creatinine clearance, or levels of proteins that contribute to insulin signaling, inflammation or zinc transport in epididymal fat. Potential adverse effects of ZS were suggested by reduced hepatic copper concentrations and elevated serum urea compared to ZC ZDF rats. In summary, ZS improved the pancreatic insulin response but not the glucose handling. In contrast, reduced zinc status in ZDF rats led to impaired glucose tolerance and a compensatory increase in the number and size of pancreatic islets which could lead to β-cell exhaustion.

Association Between Dietary Intake After Roux-en-Y Gastric Bypass Surgery and Antioxidant/inflammatory Status: A 6-Month Pilot Prospective Cohort Study.

Adipose tissue can increase levels of inflammation and oxidative stress, which explains the relationship between obesity and many chronic diseases. Weight loss, changes in adipose tissue metabolism, and dietary nutrient intake changes following bariatric surgery could affect a number of oxidative- and inflammation-related factors. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the potential relationship between dietary intake and inflammatory/antioxidant markers in the 6months following Roux-en-Y gastric bypass surgery (RYGB). This pilot prospective cohort study included 45 patients with severe obesity who underwent RYGB. The patients were assessed at three different time points: baseline, 3 months, and 6 months post-surgery. Throughout the study, dietary intake data, levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC), NF-κB, and serum levels of certain micronutrients were measured three times. Dietary macro- and micronutrient intake data were obtained three times throughout the study using the 24-h food recall questionnaire. The analysis of dietary indices in the present study found a significant positive correlation between the dietary intake of zinc, copper, MUFA, and serum TAC levels. It also revealed a significant inverse correlation between serum levels of NF-κB with vitamin E and PUFA intake. Additionally, there was a significant positive association between the amount of dietary carbohydrates and saturated fatty acids intake and the levels of NF-κB. Furthermore, within 3 to 6 months after the surgery, patients experienced an increase in serum levels of TAC, ferritin, vitamin D3, vitamin B12, and folate. However, there was a decrease in serum levels of NF-κB, zinc, and copper. Weight loss and nutritional status may potentially impact oxidative stress and inflammation levels within 6months following RYGB surgery. Further research is necessary to comprehensively investigate the different facets of this correlation and elucidate the precise underlying mechanism.

Agronomic Biofortification of Fodder Maize (Zea mays L.) with Zn for Improving Herbage Productivity and Its Quality

Zinc (Zn) deficiency in soils not only reduces the productivity of forage crops, but also results in inadequate dietary zinc intake for livestock. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of different rates and methods of applying ZnSO4 to both soil and foliage on the yield and quality of fodder maize grown in a sandy loam soil testing low in DTPA-extractable Zn. A 2-year field experiment was conducted with six treatments including control, foliar application of 0.3% ZnSO4 at 30 days after sowing (DAS) (F1), foliar application of 0.3% ZnSO4 at 30 and 40 DAS (F2), soil application of 16 kg ha−1 ZnSO4 (S16) and a combination of both soil and foliar ZnSO4 application (S16 + F1 and S16 + F2). Increase in green herbage yield by 25%, dry matter yield by 47% and Zn content by 79% was observed under S16 + F2 treatment over the control. Zinc application improved N, K, Cu and crude protein content of herbage significantly over the control. Thus, the study shows that significant improvement in growth parameters, herbage yield and quality of maize can be achieved with soil Zn application + two foliar sprays of ZnSO4 at 30 and 40 DAS, thereby ensuring availability of improved fodder Zn to the livestock.

Fostering healthy aging through selective nutrition: A long-term comparison of two dietary patterns and their holistic impact on mineral status in middle-aged individuals—A randomized controlled intervention trial in Germany

Aging is associated with a decline in physiological functions and an increased risk of age-related diseases, emphasizing the importance of identifying dietary strategies for healthy aging. Minerals play a crucial role in maintaining optimal health during aging, making them relevant targets for investigation. Therefore, we aimed to analyze the effect of different dietary pattern on mineral status in the elderly. We included 502 individuals aged 50–80 years in a 36-month randomized controlled trial (RCT) (NutriAct study). This article focuses on the results within the two-year intervention period. NutriAct is not a mineral-modulating-targeted intervention study, rather examining nutrition in the context of healthy aging in general. However, mineral status might be affected in an incidental manner. Participants were assigned to either NutriAct dietary pattern (proportionate intake of total energy consumption (%E) of 35–45 %E carbohydrates, 35–40 %E fats, and 15–25 %E protein) or the German Nutrition Society (DGE) dietary pattern (proportionate intake of total energy consumption (%E) of 55 %E carbohydrates, 30 %E fats, and 15 %E protein), differing in the composition of macronutrients. Data from 368 participants regarding dietary intake (energy, calcium, magnesium, iron, and zinc) and serum mineral concentrations of calcium, magnesium, iron, copper, zinc, selenium, iodine, and manganese, free zinc, and selenoprotein P were analyzed at baseline, as well as after 12 and 24 months to gain comprehensive insight into the characteristics of the mineral status. Additionally, inflammatory status - sensitive to changes in mineral status - was assessed by measurement of C-reactive protein and interleukin-6. At baseline, inadequate dietary mineral intake and low serum concentrations of zinc and selenium were observed in both dietary patterns. Throughout two years, serum zinc concentrations decreased, while an increase of serum selenium, manganese and magnesium concentrations was observable, likely influenced by both dietary interventions. No significant changes were observed for serum calcium, iron, copper, or iodine concentrations. In conclusion, long-term dietary interventions can influence serum mineral concentrations in a middle-aged population. Our findings provide valuable insights into the associations between dietary habits, mineral status, and disease, contributing to dietary strategies for healthy aging.

A cross-sectional analysis of the PURE study on minerals intake among Malaysian adult population with hypertension

Hypertension (HPT) is the leading modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and premature death worldwide. Currently, attention is given to various dietary approaches with a special focus on the role of micronutrient intake in the regulation of blood pressure. This study aims to measure the dietary intake of selected minerals among Malaysian adults and its association with HPT. This cross-sectional study involved 10,031 participants from the Prospective Urban and Rural Epidemiological study conducted in Malaysia. Participants were grouped into HPT if they reported having been diagnosed with high blood pressure [average systolic blood pressure (SBP)/average diastolic blood pressure (DBP) ≥ 140/90 mm Hg]. A validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) was used to measure participants' habitual dietary intake. The dietary mineral intake of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, sodium, and zinc was measured. The chi-square test was used to assess differences in socio-demographic factors between HPT and non-HPT groups, while the Mann–Whitney U test was used to assess differences in dietary mineral intake between the groups. The participants’ average dietary intake of calcium, copper, iron, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, selenium, sodium, and zinc was 591.0 mg/day, 3.8 mg/day, 27.1 mg/day, 32.4 mg/day, 0.4 mg/day, 1431.1 mg/day, 2.3 g/day, 27.1 µg/day, 4526.7 mg/day and 1.5 mg/day, respectively. The intake was significantly lower among those with HPT than those without HPT except for calcium and manganese. Continuous education and intervention should be focused on decreasing sodium intake and increasing potassium, magnesium, manganese, zinc, and calcium intake for the general Malaysian population, particularly for the HPT patients.

Association between dietary selenium and zinc intake and risk of dilated cardiomyopathy in children: a case-control study

BackgroundDilated cardiomyopathy (DCMP) is characterized by the enlargement and weakening of the heart and is a major cause of heart failure in children. Infection and nutritional deficiencies are culprits for DCMP. Zinc is an important nutrient for human health due to its anti-oxidant effect that protects cell against oxidative damage. This case-control study aimed to investigate the relationship between dietary intake of zinc and selenium and the risk of DCMP in pediatric patients.MethodsA total of 36 DCMP patients and 72 matched controls were recruited, and their dietary intakes were assessed via a validated food frequency questionnaire. We used chi-square and sample T-test for qualitative and quantitative variables, respectively. Logistic regression analysis was applied to assess the relationship between selenium and zinc intake with the risk of DCMP.ResultsAfter fully adjusting for confounding factors, analyses showed that selenium (OR = 0.19, CI = 0.057–0.069, P trend < 0.011) and zinc (OR = 0.12, CI = 0.035–0.046, P trend < 0.002) intake were strongly associated with 81% and 88% lower risk of pediatric DCMP, respectively.ConclusionsThis study highlights the protective role of adequate dietary intake of selenium and zinc in decreasing the risk of DCMP in children. Malnutrition may exacerbate the condition and addressing these micronutrient deficiencies may improve the cardiac function. Further studies are recommended to detect the underlying mechanisms and dietary recommendations for DCMP prevention.

Dietary zinc intake and absolute lymphocyte counts in advanced stage of nasopharyngeal cancer patients

BackgroundNasopharyngeal Cancer (NPC) patients experience a deficiency immune system due to a systemic inflammatory response. Anorexia due to inflammation and dysphagia, as well as the effects of therapy such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy in NPC, causes a decreased intake of macronutrients and micronutrients, including zinc. Long-term zinc deficiency affects both non-specific and specific immune components (lymphocytes, monocytes, macrophages, neutrophils). However, research regarding zinc intake and lymphocyte counts is still rarely carried out, especially in NPC patients in Indonesia. The population of Indonesia has a different dietary intake pattern from the population of western countries. Therefore, researchers intend to examine zinc intake and lymphocyte counts in NPC patients at Dr. Kariadi Hospital in Semarang, Indonesia. AimsTo determine the relationship between dietary zinc intake and Absolute Lymphocyte Counts (ALC) in NPC patients. MethodsThis study was a cross-sectional study involving NPC patients undergoing first to third cycles of chemotherapy and aged 18–59 years at Dr Kariadi Semarang in July 2020–October 2022. Patients with hypoalbuminemia, experienced metastases, had other comorbid diseases, and had undergone radiotherapy were excluded from this study. Dietary zinc intake was measured using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) for the last 14 days and ALC was measured using a heme analyzer at Dr Kariadi Hospital Laboratory. Statistical analysis used the Pearson and Spearman correlation test to measure the strength of the correlation between dietary zinc intake and ALC, and a one sample T test to determine whether participants' zinc intake differed from the Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA). ResultsThe sample of this research was 35 subjects [20 male subjects (57.1%) and 15 female subjects (42.1%)]. The average dietary zinc intake of NPC patients undergoing chemotherapy at Dr Kariadi Hospital was 5.18 ± 2.19 mg/day (5.83 ± 1.63 mg/day and 4.32 ± 2.58 mg/day for males and females, respectively). The results showed a positive correlation between dietary zinc intake and ALC in NPC patients (r = 0.41, p = 0.013; p < 0.05). ALC in NPC patients was influenced by zinc intake and protein intake (p < 0.05), but not energy intake, BMI, and age (p > 0.05). The zinc intake of men and women was significantly different compared to the RDA recommendation (p < 0.05). ConclusionThere is a significant and positive correlation between dietary zinc intake and absolute lymphocyte counts in NPC patients undergoing chemotherapy.

Zinc contents in foods and estimates of dietary intakes in Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China.

Zinc is one of human essential metals. In this study, 101 kinds of daily food for residents, including vegetables, aquatic food, meat, fruits, rice and cereal products, pulse food, dairy products and eggs, were collected at various agricultural markets and supermarkets in Guangzhou city, China, and their zinc contents were determined. The results showed oyster is most abundant in zinc (703.5 ± 25.6 mg/kg), followed by high-zinc milk powder (58.63 ± 0.90 mg/kg), pulse food, mutton, beef and pig liver with zinc contents above 30 mg/kg. The zinc contents of rice and cereal products, milk powder, poultry, pork, some aquatic food and eggs are also relatively high (>10 mg/kg), while vegetables and fruits have zinc contents significantly below 10 mg/kg. The daily zinc intake per person was determined by considering the zinc content of various food types and the dietary habits of specific demographic groups, resulting in 12.3 mg/day for the normal person, 11.2 mg/day for low-income individual, 12.3 mg/day for middle-income individual, 13.3 mg/day for high-income individual, 10.2 mg/day for older individual, 12.9 mg/day for factory worker, 11.5 mg/day for college student, and 8.4 mg/day for kindergarten child. The reference values of zinc intake recommended by the Chinese Nutrition Society were used to evaluate the zinc intake of Guangzhou residents, showing that the residents' zinc intake is generally sufficient and not necessary to use zinc supplementation. Income, age and occupation could have posed influence on dietary intake of zinc.

Dietary mineral intakes predict Coronavirus-disease 2019 (COVID-19) incidence and hospitalization in older adults

BackgroundThe aim of this study was to determine the association between dietary mineral intake and Coronavirus-disease 2019 (COVID-19) infection and its associated hospitalization.MethodsThis cohort study utilized the MASHAD study population, which comprised individuals aged 35–65. Upon recruitment in 2007, dietary intake was documented using a validated 65-item food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Data on COVID-19 PCR test results was collected from all relevant medical centers in Mashhad between February 2020 and June 2022. The regression model included dietary minerals and employed the backward variable selection method, along with advanced data analysis techniques.ResultsThe final analysis involved 1957 participants, including 193 COVID-19-positive patients. The mean age was 49.71 and 50.28 years in the COVID-19-positive and negative groups, respectively (p = 0.12). Dietary intakes of magnesium, iron, and potassium were notably lower in COVID-19-positive patients (P < 0.05). Following adjustments for age and sex, dietary iron remained significantly associated with COVID-19 incidence (OR = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.90–0.98). Furthermore, a statistically significant relationship was observed between dietary zinc and hospitalization due to COVID-19 (OR = 0.69, 95% CI: 0.51–0.93). In dynamical system models, intakes of calcium, zinc, and iron below the cut-offs of 1138, 9.7, and 8.17 mg/day, respectively, were linked to an increased risk of COVID-19 incidence.ConclusionHigher dietary iron and zinc intake are associated with decreased risk of COVID-19 infection and hospitalization, respectively.