Lower Serum Zinc Concentration Despite Higher Dietary Zinc Intake in Athletes: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Zinc transporters expression profile in professional handball players supplemented with zinc

INTRODUCTION

Zinc (Zn) deficiency has been described not only on general human health but also within the sports context -as negatively affecting performance-. Thus, Zn status assessment is of great interest for athletes, especially in order to correct deficiency states of this mineral.

OBJECTIVE

The overall objective of this work was to assess Zn status in professional handball players during the competitive period (through plasma levels, dietary intake and gene expression of the Zn transporters), as well as to determine the effect of Zn supplementation.

METHODS

A total of twenty-two participants were recruited, -twelve belonged to the Control Group (CG) and ten male handball players comprised the experimental group (ATH-G)-, being monitored over a 2-month period with 2 evaluation moments: baseline (i.e., initial conditions) and follow-up (i.e., after 8 weeks of training and competition). Zn intake, plasma Zn levels, and gene expression of Zn transporters were obtained.

RESULTS

Plasma Zn levels were higher in ATH-G than in CG at the end of Zn intervention (p ≤ 0.010). Moreover, differences in the gene expression profile of Zn transporters were observed in ATH-G -with the down-regulation of several Zn transporters-, compared to the CG at baseline (p ≤ 0.05). Likewise, differences in the Zn transporters expression were observed in ATH-G at 8 weeks (all, p ≤ 0.001) -with ZnT2, ZnT5, ZIP3, ZIP5, ZIP11, ZIP13 and ZIP14 transporters being up-regulated-.

CONCLUSION

Handball players seemed to have different nutritional needs for Zn, with differences in the gene expression of Zn transporters compared to controls. Zn intervention in our athletes may have influenced the expression of Zn transporters, indicating a potential increase in Zn transporters expression to mobilize Zn at the cellular level at 8 weeks of Zn intervention.

Associations of multiple metal intake with all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in US adults stratified by age and sex: A prospective cohort from the NHANES database study

AIM AND OBJECTIVES

The relationship between dietary metal intake and mortality risk is controversial, and we investigated the relationship between intake of five metals (iron, copper, selenium, zinc, and magnesium) and all-cause, cardiovascular mortality in the total population, gender subgroups, and age subgroups.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

17,207 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) database from 2009 to 2016 were included in this study. Kaplan-Meier survival curves, multivariate Cox proportional hazards models, and restrictive cubic spline (RCS) curves were used to explore the association between metal intake and all-cause, cardiovascular mortality.

RESULTS

In this study, the average dietary metal intake of men and older people was lower than that of women and younger people. The RCS curves found in the whole population that all-cause mortality was negative linearly associated with copper intakes, L-shaped with zinc and magnesium intakes. Further subgroup analyses of copper, zinc, and magnesium by age and gender revealed that only magnesium showed statistically significant differences in the age subgroups. In the 20-40 population, there was a non-linear increasing trend in magnesium intake and all-cause mortality, whereas there was a non-linear decreasing trend in the > 60 population.

CONCLUSION

The relationship between metal intake and mortality is more than a simple linear correlation, and differences in age can affect this correlation. In metal exposure studies, different populations can be studied to better determine the effect of metal exposure on mortality.

DATA AVAILABILITY

The dataset used for statistical analysis in this study is available on the NHANES website: https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/nhanes/index.htm.

Zinc Ameliorates Tripterygium Glycosides-Induced Reproductive Impairment in Male Rats by Regulating Zinc Homeostasis and Expression of Oxidative Stress-Related Genes

Tripterygium glycosides (TG) can seriously damage male reproductive function, and the reproductive system is difficult to restore after stopping the administration of TG in male rats. Zinc (Zn) is one of the most important trace elements in the human body and plays an important role in maintaining male fertility. The aim of this study was to investigate whether zinc supplementation could improve the testicular reproductive damage induced by TG toxicity in rats and to investigate its mechanism of action. The results showed that zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) could improve testicular tissue structure and semen parameters, promote testosterone synthesis, increase zinc-containing enzyme activity, increase zinc concentration in serum and testicular tissues, and maintain zinc homeostasis in male rats induced by TG toxicity. Zinc supplementation activated relevant signalling molecules in the KEAP1-NRF2/ARE pathway and alleviated TG-induced oxidative stress. Therefore, this study concluded that zinc supplementation could improve reproductive damage by regulating zinc homeostasis and the expression of genes related to oxidative stress.

Advancing athletic assessment by integrating conventional methods with cutting-edge biomedical technologies for comprehensive performance, wellness, and longevity insights

In modern athlete assessment, the integration of conventional biochemical and ergophysiologic monitoring with innovative methods like telomere analysis, genotyping/phenotypic profiling, and metabolomics has the potential to offer a comprehensive understanding of athletes' performance and potential longevity. Telomeres provide insights into cellular functioning, aging, and adaptation and elucidate the effects of training on cellular health. Genotype/phenotype analysis explores genetic variations associated with athletic performance, injury predisposition, and recovery needs, enabling personalization of training plans and interventions. Metabolomics especially focusing on low-molecular weight metabolites, reveal metabolic pathways and responses to exercise. Biochemical tests assess key biomarkers related to energy metabolism, inflammation, and recovery. Essential elements depict the micronutrient status of the individual, which is critical for optimal performance. Echocardiography provides detailed monitoring of cardiac structure and function, while burnout testing evaluates psychological stress, fatigue, and readiness for optimal performance. By integrating this scientific testing battery, a multidimensional understanding of athlete health status can be achieved, leading to personalized interventions in training, nutrition, supplementation, injury prevention, and mental wellness support. This scientifically rigorous approach hereby presented holds significant potential for improving athletic performance and longevity through evidence-based, individualized interventions, contributing to advances in the field of sports performance optimization.

Considerations for the Consumption of Vitamin and Mineral Supplements in Athlete Populations

Vitamins and minerals are of fundamental importance to numerous human functions that are essential to optimise athlete performance. Athletes incur a high turnover of key vitamins and minerals and are therefore dependent on sufficient energy intake to replenish nutrient stores. However, many athletes are poor at servicing their energy replenishment needs, especially female athletes, and although a 'food first approach' to meeting nutrient requirements is the primary goal, it may be important for some athletes to consider a vitamin and/or mineral supplement to meet their daily needs. When working to determine if an athlete requires vitamin or mineral supplements, practitioners should use a robust framework to assess the overall energy requirements, current dietary practices and the biological and clinical status of their athletes. Of note, any supplementation plan should account for the various factors that may impact the efficacy of the approach (e.g. athlete sex, the nutrient recommended dietary intake, supplement dose/timing, co-consumption of other foods and any food-drug interactions). Importantly, there are numerous vitamins and minerals of key importance to athletes, each having specific relevance to certain situations (e.g. iron and B vitamins are significant contributors to haematological adaptation, calcium and vitamin D are important to bone health and folate is important in the female athlete); therefore, the appropriate supplement for a given situation should be carefully considered and consumed with the goal to augment an athlete's diet.

The relationship between dietary patterns and blood mineral concentration among children in Hunan Province of China

BACKGROUND

Minerals have crucial biological functions in metabolism and are primarily obtained through diet. As a result, various dietary patterns can impact blood mineral levels. The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between dietary patterns and the concentration of calcium, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper in the bloodstream.

METHODS

Three hundred eighty healthy children (53.7% male) were recruited in a region of Hunan Province in September 2019. We gathered basic information and measured physical proportions, along with completing a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Using principal component analysis (PCA), we determined dietary patterns. To analyze mineral levels in the blood, we used flame atomic absorption spectrometry (FAAS). We utilized linear regression models to investigate if certain dietary patterns are related to mineral concentration.

RESULTS

Three dietary patterns were identified: 'Vegetables/Nuts,' 'Snacks/Beverages,' and 'Cereal/Beans.' Children from high-income families (annual average income > 50,000 yuan) prefer the 'Vegetables/Nuts' dietary pattern (P = 0.004). In comparison, those from low-income families (annual average income < 20,000 yuan) prefer the 'Snacks/Beverages' dietary pattern (P = 0.03). Following adjustment for age, gender, guardian's identity, education level, and annual household income. We found that an increase in the 'Vegetables/Nuts' pattern score (β = 0.153, CI: 0.053 ~ 0.253; P = 0.003) and 'Snacks/Beverages' pattern score (β = 0.103, CI: 0.002 ~ 0.204; P = 0.033) were significantly associated blood copper concentration.

CONCLUSIONS

Household income was found to be associated with dietary behavior. Furthermore, higher blood copper concentration was significantly correlated with the 'Vegetables/Nuts' dietary pattern and 'Snacks/Beverages' dietary pattern, but the correlation is extremely low.

Association between serum copper, zinc, and selenium concentrations and depressive symptoms in the US adult population, NHANES (2011-2016)

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that alterations in serum trace element concentrations are closely associated with mental illness. However, ​studies on the relationship between serum copper, zinc, and selenium concentrations and depressive symptoms are limited and with controversial results. We aimed to investigate the association between serum concentrations of these trace elements and depressive symptoms in US adults.

METHODS

Data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) (2011-2016) were used in this cross-sectional study. The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Items (PHQ-9) was employed to assess depressive symptoms. Multiple logistic regression was performed to determine the relationship between the serum concentrations of copper, zinc, and selenium and depressive symptoms.

RESULTS

A total of 4552 adults were included. Subjects with depressive symptoms had higher serum copper concentrations (123.88 ± 1.87) than those without depressive symptoms (116.99 ± 0.86) (p < 0.001). In Model 2, weighted logistic regression analysis showed that the second (Q2) quartile of zinc concentrations (odds ratio [OR] = 1.534, 95% confident interval [CI]: 1.018 to 2.313) were significantly associated with an increased risk of depressive symptoms. Subgroup analysis revealed that the third (Q3) and fourth (Q4) quartiles of copper concentrations (Q3: OR = 2.699, 95% CI: 1.285 to 5.667; Q4: OR = 2.490, 95% CI: 1.026 to 6.046) were also positively associated with depressive symptoms in obese individuals after controlling for all confounders. However, no significant relationship between serum selenium concentrations and depressive symptoms was observed.

CONCLUSIONS

Obese US adults with high serum copper concentrations, as well as US adults in general with low serum zinc concentrations, were susceptible to depressive symptoms. Nevertheless, the causal mechanisms underlying these relationships need to be further explored.

Association between serum zinc levels and suicidal ideation in US adults: A population-based cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND

Evidence suggests that the homeostatic disruption of zinc, copper, and selenium might contribute to the pathophysiology of mental disorders. However, the specific relationship between the serum levels of these trace elements with suicidal ideation remains poorly understood. This study aimed to investigated the association among suicidal ideation on serum levels of zinc, copper, and selenium.

METHODS

The cross-sectional study was conducted using data from a nationally representative sample of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2011-2016. Suicidal ideation was assessed using Item #9 of the Patient Health Questionnaire-9 Items. Multivariate regression models and restricted cubic splines were performed and E-value was calculated.

RESULTS

A total of 4561 participants aged 20 years and older were analyzed, of whom 4.08 % had suicidal ideation. The serum zinc levels were lower in the suicidal ideation group than in the non-suicidal ideation group (P = 0.021). In Crude Model, the serum zinc levels were associated with a higher suicidal ideation risk in the second quartile compared with the highest quartile [odds ratio (OR) = 2.63; 95 % confidence interval (CI): 1.53-4.53]. The association persisted (OR = 2.35; 95 % CI: 1.20-4.58) after full adjustment, with E-value 2.44. A nonlinear relationship was observed between serum zinc levels and suicidal ideation (P = 0.028). No relationship was observed between suicidal ideation and serum copper or selenium levels (all P > 0.05).

CONCLUSIONS

Decreased serum zinc levels may increase susceptibility to suicidal ideation. Future studies are needed to validate the findings of this study.

Zinc-Deficient Diet Causes Imbalance in Zinc Homeostasis and Impaired Autophagy and Impairs Semen Quality in Mice

Zinc (Zn) is an essential trace element for human growth and its deficiency causes huge health impacts. The present study was conducted to examine the mechanisms by which Zn-deficient diet impairs reproductive function and its reversibility. Hence, SPF grade male Kunming (KM) mice were divided into three groups. Zn-normal diet group (ZN group) was provided with Zn-normal diet (Zn content = 30 mg/kg, DY19410Y) for 8 weeks. Zn-deficient diet group (ZD group) was provided with Zn-deficient diet (Zn content < 1 mg/kg, DY19401) for 8 weeks. Zn-deficient and Zn-normal diet group (ZDN group) was provided with 4 weeks Zn-deficient diet followed by 4 weeks Zn-normal diet. After 8 weeks, the overnight-fasted mice were sacrificed, and blood and organs were collected for further analysis. The results showed that Zn-deficient diet caused testicular structural disorders, decreased semen quality, imbalance in zinc homeostasis, and impaired autophagy. Semen quality, testosterone, serum Zn, testicular tissue Zn, testicular free Zn ions, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), zinc transporter 7(ZnT7), Beclin1, autophagy-related 5(ATG5), and the ratio of light chain 3(LC3) II/LC3I were significantly decreased, and ZnT4, Zrt-, Irt-like protein7 (ZIP7), and ZIP13 expression were significantly increased in ZD group mice, while the changes in above indicators caused by Zn-deficient diet were significantly alleviated in the ZDN group. It was concluded that Zn-deficient diet causes testicular structural disorders and decreased semen quality by causing imbalances in Zn homeostasis and impaired autophagy in male mice. Reproductive damages caused by Zn-deficient diet are reversible, and Zn-normal diet can alleviate them.

Examining dietary behaviours, diet quality, motives and supplementation use in physically active individuals following vegetarian-based eating patterns

The adoption of vegetarian-based dietary patterns among athletes has been gaining popularity. However, limited research examines the dietary behaviours within this group. Therefore, the aim of this study was to examine self-reported dietary behaviours in a cohort of physically active individuals following vegetarian-based dietary patterns, recruited via social media. A 52-item online survey was created with questions related to demographics, physical activity, eating patterns and supplementation use. An external link to the Australian Automated Self-Administered 24-h (ASA24-AU) recall was included to examine nutrient intakes. Dietary quality was assessed using the Alternate Healthy Eating Index-2010 (AHEI-2010) and the Dietary Phytochemical Index (DPI) tools. A total of 781 (84.8%) respondents completed the survey in 2018. Principal motives for adhering to a vegetarian-based dietary pattern included animal rights (86.5%), environmental concerns (75.4%), health reasons (69.6%) and improving physical performance (24.1%). Vitamin B12 was the most commonly reported supplement (58.1%) followed by protein powder (36.3%) and vitamin D (35.9%). A total of 133 respondents completed the ASA24-AU dietary recall with generally adequate nutrient intakes and a high-quality diet as assessed by the AHEI-2010 and DPI. A significant minority of physically active individuals following vegetarian-based diets do so with the aspiration of improving their exercise performance. Dietary quality was considered high in this group for recreational physical activity, although intakes of vitamin B12 and LC n-3 PUFA were low.

Strategies for Therapeutic Amelioration of Aberrant Plasma Zn2+ Handling in Thrombotic Disease: Targeting Fatty Acid/Serum Albumin-Mediated Effects

The initiation, maintenance and regulation of blood coagulation is inexorably linked to the actions of Zn²⁺ in blood plasma. Zn²⁺ interacts with a variety of haemostatic proteins in the bloodstream including fibrinogen, histidine-rich glycoprotein (HRG) and high molecular weight kininogen (HMWK) to regulate haemostasis. The availability of Zn²⁺ to bind such proteins is controlled by human serum albumin (HSA), which binds 70–85% of plasma Zn²⁺ under basal conditions. HSA also binds and transports non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs). Upon NEFA binding, there is a change in the structure of HSA which leads to a reduction in its affinity for Zn²⁺. This enables other plasma proteins to better compete for binding of Zn²⁺. In diseases where elevated plasma NEFA concentrations are a feature, such as obesity and diabetes, there is a concurrent increase in hypercoagulability. Evidence indicates that NEFA-induced perturbation of Zn²⁺-binding by HSA may contribute to the thrombotic complications frequently observed in these pathophysiological conditions. This review highlights potential interventions, both pharmaceutical and non-pharmaceutical that may be employed to combat this dysregulation. Lifestyle and dietary changes have been shown to reduce plasma NEFA concentrations. Furthermore, drugs that influence NEFA levels such as statins and fibrates may be useful in this context. In severely obese patients, more invasive therapies such as bariatric surgery may be useful. Finally, other potential treatments such as chelation therapies, use of cholesteryl transfer protein (CETP) inhibitors, lipase inhibitors, fatty acid inhibitors and other treatments are highlighted, which with additional research and appropriate clinical trials, could prove useful in the treatment and management of thrombotic disease through amelioration of plasma Zn²⁺ dysregulation in high-risk individuals.

Nonpharmacological Interventions for the Management of Testosterone and Sperm Parameters: A Scoping Review

PURPOSE

Testosterone replacement and associated pharmacologic agents are effective strategies to treat male hypogonadism; however, nutraceutical agents and lifestyle modification approaches have gained medical interest. The purpose of this scoping review is to highlight the evidence (or lack thereof) of nutraceuticals and lifestyle modification approaches in the management of testosterone levels and sperm parameters.

METHODS

A scoping review of nonpharmacologic interventions (supplements, herbal medicines, diets, sleep, and exercise) with the potential to improve male health was undertaken to elucidate changes in testosterone levels and sperm parameters in men with hypogonadism or infertility compared with healthy patients.

FINDINGS

A multitude of nutraceuticals and functional nutrients are purported to stimulate testosterone production; however, only a select few have had promising results, such as zinc, vitamin D (in case of hypovitaminosis D), l-arginine, mucuna, and ashwagandha, based on well-controlled randomized clinical trials of men with low testosterone levels and related problems. Except for l-arginine, these natural agents, as well as tribulus and ω3 fatty acids, can improve some degree of sperm parameters in infertile men. Before implementing these nutraceutical agents, adequate sleep, exercise, and weight loss in patients with obesity are imperative. The effects of nonpharmacologic interventions on testosterone levels are modest and hence do not directly translate into clinical benefits. Correspondingly, androgen receptor content, but not endogenous androgens, has been regarded as the principal factor in muscle hypertrophy.

IMPLICATIONS

A limited number of supplements and herbal medicines can be considered as adjunctive approaches in the management of testosterone levels and sperm parameters, primarily in men with low testosterone levels and infertility, whereas most nonpharmacologic supplements appear to lack evidence. Although proper physical exercise, sleep, and diet are indisputable approaches because of the general benefits to health, the use of nutraceuticals, if considered, must be personalized by physicians and/or registered dietitians.

Influence of physical training on intracellular and extracellular zinc concentrations

Background

Physical exercise affects zinc (Zn) homeostasis. This study aimed to analyze the influence of physical training on extracellular (serum, plasma, and urine) and intracellular (erythrocytes and platelets) concentrations of Zn.

Methods

Forty young men, divided into a training group (TG; n = 20; 18.15 ± 0.27 years; 68.59 ± 4.18 kg; 1.76 ± 0.04 m) and a control group (CG; n = 20; 19.25 ± 0.39 years; 73.45 ± 9.04 kg; 1.79 ± 0.06 m), participated in this study. The TG was formed by semiprofessional soccer players from a youth category with a regular training plan of 10 h/week. The CG was formed by healthy men who did not practice physical exercise and had not followed any specific training plan. Plasma, serum, urine, erythrocyte, and platelet samples of Zn were obtained and analyzed by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry.

Results

The TG showed elevated plasma Zn concentrations (p < 0.01) despite similar intakes. However, TG showed reduced absolute (p < 0.01) and relative (p < 0.05) Zn concentrations in erythrocytes.

Conclusions

Athletes who underwent regular physical training showed elevated plasma and reduced erythrocyte Zn concentrations despite similar intakes to the CG.

Benefits of a plant-based diet and considerations for the athlete

Individuals may opt to follow a plant-based diet for a variety of reasons, such as religious practices, health benefits or concerns for animal or environmental welfare. Such diets offer a broad spectrum of health benefits including aiding in the prevention and management of chronic diseases. In addition to health benefits, a plant-based diet may provide performance-enhancing effects for various types of exercise due to high carbohydrate levels and the high concentration of antioxidants and phytochemicals found in a plant-based diet. However, some plant-based foods also contain anti-nutrional factors, such as phytate and tannins, which decrease the bioavailability of key nutrients, such as iron, zinc, and protein. Thus, plant-based diets must be carefully planned to ensure adequate intake and absorption of energy and all essential nutrients. The current narrative review summarizes the current state of the research concerning the implications of a plant-based diet for health and exercise performance. It also outlines strategies to enhance the bioavailability of nutrients, sources of hard-to-get nutrients, and sport supplements that could interest plant-based athletes.

Manipulation of Dietary Intake on Changes in Circulating Testosterone Concentrations

Elevations in the circulating concentration of androgens are thought to have a positive effect on the anabolic processes leading to improved athletic performance. Anabolic-androgenic steroids have often been used by competitive athletes to augment this effect. Although there has been concerted effort on examining how manipulating training variables (e.g., intensity and volume of training) can influence the androgen response to exercise, there has been much less effort directed at understanding how changes in both macronutrient and micronutrient intake can impact the androgen response. Thus, the focus of this review is to examine the effect that manipulating energy and nutrient intake has on circulating concentrations of testosterone and what the potential mechanism is governing these changes.

The Emerging Role of Nutraceuticals in Cardiovascular Calcification: Evidence from Preclinical and Clinical Studies

Cardiovascular calcification is the ectopic deposition of calcium-phosphate crystals within the arterial wall and the aortic valve leaflets. This pathological process leads to increased vascular stiffness, reduced arterial elasticity, and aortic valve stenosis, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Although cardiovascular calcification is an increasing health care burden, to date no medical therapies have been approved for treating or preventing it. Considering the current lack of therapeutic strategies and the increasing prevalence of cardiovascular calcification, the investigation of some nutraceuticals to prevent this pathological condition has become prevalent in recent years. Recent preclinical and clinical studies evaluated the potential anti-calcific role of nutraceuticals (including magnesium, zinc, iron, vitamin K, and phytate) in the progression of vascular calcification, providing evidence for their dietary supplementation, especially in high-risk populations. The present review summarizes the current knowledge and latest advances for nutraceuticals with the most relevant preclinical and clinical data, including magnesium, zinc, iron, vitamin K, and phytate. Their supplementation might be recommended as a cost-effective strategy to avoid nutritional deficiency and to prevent or treat cardiovascular calcification. However, the optimal dose of nutraceuticals has not been identified and large interventional trials are warranted to support their protective effects on cardiovascular disease.

Association between dietary zinc intake and abdominal aortic calcification in US adults

BACKGROUND

In animal studies, zinc supplementation inhibited phosphate-induced arterial calcification. We tested the hypothesis that higher intake of dietary zinc was associated with lower abdominal aortic calcification (AAC) among adults in the USA. We also explored the associations of AAC with supplemental zinc intake, total zinc intake and serum zinc level.

METHODS

We performed cross-sectional analyses of 2535 participants from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2013-14. Dietary and supplemental zinc intakes were obtained from two 24-h dietary recall interviews. Total zinc intake was the sum of dietary and supplemental zinc. AAC was measured using dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry in adults ≥40 years of age and quantified using the Kauppila score system. AAC scores were categorized into three groups: no AAC (AAC = 0, reference group), mild-moderate (AAC >0-≤6) and severe AAC (AAC >6).

RESULTS

Dietary zinc intake (mean ± SE) was 10.5 ± 0.1 mg/day; 28% had AAC (20% mild-moderate and 8% severe), 17% had diabetes mellitus and 51% had hypertension. Higher intake of dietary zinc was associated with lower odds of having severe AAC. Per 1 mg/day higher intake of dietary zinc, the odds of having severe AAC were 8% lower [adjusted odds ratio 0.92 (95% confidence interval 0.86-0.98), P = 0.01] compared with those without AAC, after adjusting for demographics, comorbidities and laboratory measurements. Supplemental zinc intake, total zinc intake and serum zinc level were not associated with AAC.

CONCLUSIONS

Higher intake of dietary zinc was independently associated with lower odds of having severe AAC among noninstitutionalized US adults.

Influence of a high-temperature programme on serum, urinary and sweat levels of selenium and zinc

INTRODUCTION

The effect of hyperthermia on the antioxidant system in the human organism is well known.

AIM

The objective of this study was to observe the effects of heat on the concentration of Se and Zn, elements related to antioxidant systems.

METHODS

Twenty-nine subjects voluntarily participated in this study. They were divided into a control group (CG; n = 14) and an experimental group (EG; n = 15). All of them underwent two incremental tests until exhaustion in normothermia (22 °C, 20-40%RH) and hyperthermia (42 °C, 20-40%RH). EG experienced nine sessions of repeated heat exposure at high temperatures (100 °C, 20%RH) for three weeks (HEHT). After the intervention, the initial measurements were repeated. Urine and blood samples were collected before and after each test. Additionally, sweat samples were collected after tests in hyperthermia.

RESULTS

There were no significant changes in serum. An increase in the elimination of Zn and Se in EG was observed in urine after HEHT (p < .05). The elimination of Zn by sweating decreased after HEHT in EG (p < .05).

CONCLUSIONS

Exposure to heat at high temperatures increases the urinary excretion of Se and Zn.

The Role of Mineral and Trace Element Supplementation in Exercise and Athletic Performance: A Systematic Review

Minerals and trace elements (MTEs) are micronutrients involved in hundreds of biological processes. Deficiency in MTEs can negatively affect athletic performance. Approximately 50% of athletes have reported consuming some form of micronutrient supplement; however, there is limited data confirming their efficacy for improving performance. The aim of this study was to systematically review the role of MTEs in exercise and athletic performance. Six electronic databases and grey literature sources (MEDLINE; EMBASE; CINAHL and SportDISCUS; Web of Science and clinicaltrials.gov) were searched, in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. Results: 17,433 articles were identified and 130 experiments from 128 studies were included. Retrieved articles included Iron (n = 29), Calcium (n = 11), Magnesium, (n = 22), Phosphate (n = 17), Zinc (n = 9), Sodium (n = 15), Boron (n = 4), Selenium (n = 5), Chromium (n = 12) and multi-mineral articles (n = 5). No relevant articles were identified for Copper, Manganese, Iodine, Nickel, Fluoride or Cobalt. Only Iron and Magnesium included articles of sufficient quality to be assigned as 'strong'. Currently, there is little evidence to support the use of MTE supplementation to improve physiological markers of athletic performance, with the possible exception of Iron (in particular, biological situations) and Magnesium as these currently have the strongest quality evidence. Regardless, some MTEs may possess the potential to improve athletic performance, but more high quality research is required before support for these MTEs can be given. PROSPERO preregistered (CRD42018090502).

Iron, Zinc, and Physical Performance

Iron and zinc are nutritionally essential trace elements that function through incorporation into proteins and enzymes; many of these proteins and enzymes affect physical performance. Poor iron status (iron deficiency and iron deficiency anemia) is prevalent in both developed and developing nations. Zinc deficiency has been reported in clinical and population studies, although the incidence is difficult to quantify due to the lack of a reliable zinc status indicator. The objective of this manuscript is to review the relationship between iron and zinc status and physical performance. In sum, numerous reports indicate diminished physical performance in individuals with poor iron and/or zinc status, whereas, in individuals with adequate status, evidence supporting a beneficial role of iron or zinc at levels beyond the recommended dietary allowance for optimizing physical performance is lacking.