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Investigation of Trace Element Levels and Toxic Metals in Obese Children: A Single-Center Experienc
1Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Faculity of Medicine, Okan University, İstanbul, Türkiye.
Insights
Childhood obesity is linked to altered trace element levels. Obese children showed lower iron, magnesium, zinc, and cobalt, but higher copper, lead, and manganese, impacting glucose tolerance.
Area of Science:
- Pediatric Endocrinology
- Environmental Health
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- Childhood obesity pathogenesis is not fully understood.
- Limited research exists on trace elements in pediatric obesity.
- Trace elements and toxic metals may play a role.
Purpose of the Study:
- Assess trace element and toxic metal (lead, copper) levels in obese vs. healthy children.
- Investigate correlations between these elements and obesity indicators.
- Examine links to lipid profiles, insulin, and glucose levels.
Main Methods:
- Furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry for serum trace element analysis.
- Measurement of fasting glucose, insulin, and lipids in obese and healthy children.
- Oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) performed exclusively on the obese group.
Main Results:
- Obese children had significantly lower Fe, Mg, Zn, Co and higher Cu, Pb, Mn levels.
- Positive correlations observed between 2-hour glucose (OGTT) and Mn.
- Positive correlations found between peak/30th/60th min insulin levels and Fe.
Conclusions:
- Imbalances in trace elements and lead accumulation may be associated with childhood obesity.
- Manganese and iron levels might be linked to glucose intolerance in obese children.
- Further research is warranted to elucidate the role of trace elements in obesity and metabolic dysfunction.
Abstract:
The complete role of factors contributing to the pathogenesis of childhood obesity remains to be fully elucidated. Limited research has addressed trace elements in the context of child obesity. Our objective was to assess trace element and lead (Pb), copper (Cu) (are toxic metal) levels in both healthy and obese children, and to investigate the potential correlations between these elements and obesity-related anthropometric measurements, lipid profiles, as well as insulin and glucose levels. Furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometry was employed to measure the concentrations of trace elements in the serum. Additionally, fasting glucose, insulin, and lipid levels were determined in obese children (body mass index ≥ 95th percentile for age and sex), along with 50 healthy children. Only the obesity group underwent an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT). Significantly reduced levels of Fe, Mg, Zn, and Co were observed in obese children, whereas Cu, Pb, and Mn levels were elevated (P < .001, P <.001, P = .002, P = .008, P <.001, P = .001, P = .007, respectively). Significant positive correlations were found between the 2-hour glucose level in OGTT and Mn (P = .013), as well as between peak insulin and insulin levels at the 30th and 60th minutes, and Fe (P = .001, P = .025, P = .001). This study indicates that an imbalance in trace element levels and the accumulation of Pb may be associated with obesity, while levels of Mn and Fe may be linked to glucose intolerance.
