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Effect of Zinc Intake on Growth in Infants: A Meta-analysis
M Nissensohn1,2, A Sánchez-Villegas1,2, D Fuentes Lugo3
1a Research Institute of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Department of Clinical Sciences, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Facultad de Ciencias de la Salud, Las Palmas de Gran Canaria , Spain.
Critical Reviews in Food Science and Nutrition
|November 4, 2014
Summary
Zinc (Zn) intake positively impacts infant growth, particularly weight-for-age and weight-for-length z-scores. While effects on length are seen short-term and at medium doses, overall growth parameter increases are modest.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Nutrition
- Human Growth and Development
- Micronutrient Research
Background:
- Adequate zinc (Zn) intake is crucial for infant growth and development.
- Previous studies on Zn supplementation and infant growth have yielded mixed results.
- A comprehensive analysis of existing randomized controlled trials (RCTs) is needed to clarify Zn's impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and meta-analyze RCTs evaluating the effect of zinc intake on infant growth parameters.
- To identify potential effect modifiers such as Zn dose, intervention duration, and nutritional status.
- To provide evidence-based insights into zinc's role in infant development.
Main Methods:
- Systematic review and meta-analysis of 19 randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving 5500 identified studies.
- Assessment of growth parameters including weight, length, MUAC, head circumference, WAZ, LAZ, and WLZ.
- Sensitivity analyses and dose-response assessments were conducted.
Main Results:
- Zinc intake showed a positive association with weight-for-age z-score (WAZ) and weight-for-length z-score (WLZ).
- A dose-response relationship indicated a 4% increase in WAZ and WLZ for every doubling of Zn intake.
- No significant association was found for weight, length, MUAC, head circumference, or LAZ in pooled analyses, though short-term length gains were observed.
Conclusions:
- Zinc intake demonstrates a statistically significant, albeit small, positive effect on specific infant growth parameters (WAZ, WLZ).
- The findings suggest that zinc supplementation may contribute to improved infant growth, particularly in weight-related metrics.
- Further research and careful interpretation are warranted, considering the heterogeneity and effect magnitude observed.
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