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Published on: July 13, 2016
[Metabolism of trace elements in healthy and sick children. I. Health status]
1Unidad de Investigación en Salud Infantil, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, México, D.F.
Insights
Oligo-elements, or trace elements, are vital for understanding body composition and metabolism. This review covers their nutritional roles, biological functions in children, and dietary needs.
Area of Science:
- Biochemistry
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Trace elements are crucial for corporal composition and metabolic functions.
- Advancements in pediatric research have shifted studies from cellular to molecular levels, with future potential at the atomic level.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review current knowledge on trace elements.
- To elucidate their nutritional aspects, biological functions, and requirements, particularly in children.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of accumulated knowledge on trace elements.
- Synthesis of information regarding nutritional and biological roles.
Main Results:
- Trace elements play significant roles in overall health and development.
- Understanding their functions is essential for pediatric health and nutrition.
Conclusions:
- Trace elements are fundamental to human health, with specific importance in childhood.
- Further research into molecular and atomic levels will enhance understanding of trace element metabolism.
Abstract:
The oligo-elements or trace elements have acquired a major importance in the knowledge concerning corporal composition and in the comprehension of their metabolic participation in organic processes. Today, thanks to the technological and scientific progress reached by modern pediatrics, the studies made at cellular level have advanced to a molecular level, which will in the future be, without doubt, the bridge that will lead into the atomic level. In addition, this review will briefly summarize several facts of the knowledge accumulated up to now, regarding: 1. The nutritional aspects of these oligo-elements; 2. Its biological functions in healthy condition, especially in children; 3. Their respective nutritional requirements.
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