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Zinc Absorption from Representative Diet in a Chinese Elderly Population Using Stable Isotope Technique
Ya Jie Li1, Min Li1, Xiao Bing Liu1
1Key Laboratory of Trace Element Nutrition, National Health and Family Planning Commission of China, Department of Trace Element Nutrition, National Institute for Nutrition and Health, Chinese Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Beijing 100050, China.
Biomedical and Environmental Sciences : BES
|July 15, 2017
Summary
Dietary zinc absorption in Chinese elderly was determined, revealing higher absorption in men than women. Findings suggest current recommendations may need adjustment, especially for elderly females, to ensure adequate zinc status.
Area of Science:
- Nutritional Science
- Gerontology
- Human Physiology
Background:
- Zinc is essential for numerous physiological functions.
- Dietary zinc absorption can be influenced by age, sex, and diet composition.
- Understanding zinc bioavailability in elderly populations is crucial for public health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To quantify dietary zinc absorption in Chinese elderly individuals.
- To establish a basis for Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI) for zinc in this demographic.
- To identify potential disparities in zinc status between elderly men and women.
Main Methods:
- 24 elderly participants received oral doses of 67Zn isotope and dysprosium.
- Dietary intake, including macronutrients and phytic acid, was analyzed.
- Fecal samples were collected to determine zinc content, 67Zn isotope ratio, and dysprosium.
Main Results:
- Mean daily zinc intake was 10.6 ± 1.5 mg.
- The phytic acid-to-zinc molar ratio in the diet was 6.4.
- The mean 67Zn absorption rate was 27.9% ± 9.2%.
Conclusions:
- Dietary zinc absorption was successfully determined in the Chinese elderly.
- Zinc absorption was significantly higher in elderly men compared to elderly women.
- Current RNI for elderly females may be insufficient, highlighting a need for increased attention to their zinc status.
