Effects of oral zinc sulfate applications at different pH (ascorbic acid, vinegar of grapes and distillated water) on serum zinc levels in rabbits

The oral zinc (Zn) applications may be required in the case of Zn losses in the body. Lots of Zn forms and compounds are used for this aim. Sulfate form of Zn is used in a widespread manner with in distillated water or other diluent solutions. The purpose of this study is to reveal the effect of some acidifier agents as diluent solutions (therapeutic dose of ascorbic acid in distillated water and pure vinegar of grapes) versus distillated water, well known and commonly used. Thirty New Zealand rabbits in three equal groups were used in this study. Zinc sulfate solutions with different diluents as above were given to groups orally. Before and after (2,5 hours later) oral applications, blood samples were collected via cardiac puncture under general diethyl ether anesthesia. Atomic absorption spectrometer equipped with flame system was employed. Significant differences (p <= 0.001) were found between first and last serum Zn levels in all groups. There were also significant differences among last samples of groups (minimum p < 0.05). Throughout the experiment time significant differences were found between control group and acidifier groups (ascorbic acid and vinegar of grapes) (p < 0.05), but not between two acidifier groups (p > 0.05). Significant correlation was detected between pH and serum Zn levels of oral solutions (r = -0.838, p < 0.001). It was also observed that the oral solutions pH of ZnSO4 influenced the serum Zn level significantly (r(2): 70.1%, p < 0.001). Consequently, the acidity of oral ZnSO4 fortification solution affected the serum Zn level. While the pH level of oral ZnSO4 solutions was decreasing, serum Zn level increased. The therapeutic dose of ascorbic acid in distillated water was more effective than pure vinegar of grapes