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Zinc supplementation in prediabetes mellitus
Ranil Jayawardena1,2, Priyanga Ranasinghe3, Wasana Kodithuwakku4
1Department of Physiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka - ranil@physiol.cmb.ac.lk.
Minerva Endocrinology
|March 24, 2021
Summary
Zinc supplementation significantly improved glycemic and lipid levels in individuals with prediabetes. This suggests zinc may help reduce prediabetes prevalence and related health issues.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Metabolic Health
- Clinical Research
Background:
- Prediabetes poses a significant risk for developing type 2 diabetes.
- Pharmacological and lifestyle interventions can slow prediabetes progression.
- The role of zinc supplementation in managing prediabetes requires systematic evaluation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a systematic review and meta-analysis.
- To assess the impact of zinc supplementation on glycemic and lipid parameters in prediabetic individuals.
Main Methods:
- Searched PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science for controlled clinical trials.
- Included studies on prediabetics receiving zinc supplementation (alone or with other nutrients).
- Analyzed studies measuring glycemic parameters (e.g., FBG, OGTT, HbA1c) and other health markers.
Main Results:
- Pooled analysis of three studies (265 participants) showed significant reductions in fasting blood glucose (FBG) with zinc.
- Zinc supplementation also reduced 2-hour oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) blood glucose levels.
- Improvements were observed in total cholesterol (TC), HDL-c, HOMA-β, and CRP; zinc status improved.
Conclusions:
- Zinc supplementation demonstrates beneficial effects on glycemic and lipid profiles in prediabetes.
- It holds potential for reducing prediabetes prevalence.
- Further research may explore its role in controlling associated morbidity and mortality.
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