Abstract :
Context: Zinc is a micronutrient which is required as a coenzyme for the metabolism of carbohydrates,
lipids and proteins. Zinc deficiency is more common in pregnancy especially in developing countries like
India. Prevalence studies on zinc levels in pregnant women in south Indian population are scanty and needs
to be evaluated.
Aims: The aim of this study is to assess the serum zinc levels during pregnancy and its association with
their dietary intake and demographic characteristics.
Settings and Design: This cross sectional study was conducted in a tertiary care hospital in rural area of
Chengalpettu District, Tamil Nadu.
Materials and Methods: A total of 54 healthy pregnant women were included in the study population.
Detailed obstetric history was obtained by using a proforma. Serum zinc levels was estimated by
colorimetric method and their average daily dietary intake in terms of zinc was assessed by using a weekly
standardized food frequency questionnaire.
Statistical Analysis used: Statistical analysis was performed by using SPSS software.
Results: Mean serum zinc levels were 112.35±121.21 mg/dL. Almost 37% of the study participants had
zinc deficiency (
range of 0-2mg/day against the recommended dietary allowance (RDA) of 20mg/day which was 12.5% of
the RDA.
Conclusions: High prevalence of zinc deficiency is due to deficient dietary intake of zinc. Persons on
vegetarian diet are more prone for zinc deficiency. Larger studies are required to understand the magnitude
of zinc deficiency during pregnancy in India.
Keyword :
Zinc deficiency, Pregnancy, Dietary intake.