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Zinc, copper, and iron balance in elderly men
The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition
|December 1, 1981
Summary
Elderly men maintained adequate zinc and copper balance on current dietary recommendations. However, iron balance was negative, indicating a need for further research into iron intake for older men.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Human Nutrition
- Mineral Metabolism
Background:
- Adequate mineral intake is crucial for elderly health.
- Long-term balance studies are essential to validate dietary recommendations.
- Specific needs for zinc, copper, and iron in older adults require investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess zinc, copper, and iron balance in elderly men over 12 weeks.
- To evaluate the adequacy of current dietary recommendations for these minerals in older adults.
- To determine the reliability of balance studies for setting dietary guidelines.
Main Methods:
- Conducted two 3-week balance studies within a 12-week metabolic unit confinement.
- Monitored mineral intake and output for zinc, copper, and iron.
- Measured serum zinc, copper, and ceruloplasmin levels.
Main Results:
- Average zinc balance was positive (0.1 +/- 0.05), with increased serum zinc in all subjects.
- Average copper balance was near zero (0.06 +/- 0.06), with normal serum levels except for one subject.
- Iron balance was negative (-0.44 +/- 0.16), despite improved iron parameters in most subjects.
Conclusions:
- Current dietary recommendations for zinc (15 mg) and copper (2-3 mg) appear adequate for elderly men.
- Individual balance data should be interpreted cautiously and alongside other parameters.
- Further research is needed to establish optimal dietary iron recommendations for elderly men.