Effect of wheat bran on zinc absorption

Area of Science:

• Human Nutrition
• Dietary Fiber Research
• Mineral Metabolism

Background:

• Zinc is an essential mineral vital for numerous physiological functions.
• Dietary fiber, abundant in grains like wheat bran, can influence nutrient bioavailability.
• Understanding the interaction between fiber intake and zinc absorption is crucial for public health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of wheat bran consumption on zinc absorption.
• To quantify the effect of wheat bran versus a low-fiber food on zinc retention.
• To assess the potential risk of zinc deficiency induced by high wheat bran intake.

Main Methods:

• Employed a zinc tolerance test (ZTT) and whole-body monitoring to measure 7-day zinc retention.
• Utilized radioactive 65zinc (65Zn) tracer for precise absorption measurement.
• Randomized 23 healthy young adults into three groups receiving wheat bran, a low-fiber cereal, or zinc alone.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant differences in 65Zn retention were observed between all groups (P < 0.005).
• Wheat bran significantly reduced zinc absorption compared to both the low-fiber food and zinc-alone groups (P < 0.001).
• Differences in ZTT curve areas also showed significant reductions with wheat bran intake.

Conclusions:

• Wheat bran consumption significantly impairs zinc absorption in healthy individuals.
• High intake of wheat bran may increase the risk of developing zinc deficiency.
• Dietary recommendations should consider the potential impact of fiber on mineral status.