Plasma levels of zinc in protein-calorie malnutrition and after nutritional rehabilitation
1983
Two of the groups most vulnerable to zinc (Zn) deficiency are pregnant women and growing children. Low Zn availability during pregnancy may cause fetal malformation. Many consequences of protein-calorie malnutrition (PCM) are similar to clinical features of Zn deficiency (e.g., growth retardation, reduced immunocompetence, gastrointestinal dysfunction). Low plasma Zn levels have been reported in undernourished infants and children by many investigators. A number of these studies are cited and discussed. Restoration of normal plasma Zn levels depends on dietary Zn availability and the degree of depletion of Zn body stores. In populations with marginal Zn levels (children with PCM; subjects with documented Zn deficiency), Zn addition to rehabilitation food supplements is recommended to promote growth, enhance clinical recovery, and restore immunocompetence. (wz)
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