Does Zinc Supplementation Improve Dietary Intake, Symptoms of Eating Problems, and Serum Zinc Levels in Hemodialysis Patients?

OBJECTIVE: The objectives of this study were to determine the effects of zinc supplementation on dietary intake, symptoms of eating problems, and serum zinc levels in hemodialysis patients. METHODS: Thirty-nine patients who received chronic maintenance hemodialysis were randomized to experimental (n = 21) and placebo (n = 18) groups given a daily supplement of 100 mg elemental zinc and corn starch, respectively, for 60 days. Dietary intake, body composition, and eating problems were assessed using 2-day dietary records, bioelectric impedance tests, and a questionnaire, respectively. Serum zinc levels were determined by atomic absorption before and after intervention. RESULTS: The mean daily macro-and micronutrients intakes and percentage of body fat in the supplemented group increased insignificantly. Administration of zinc improved appetite loss, dry mouth, nausea, and hypogeusia, while incidence of these symptoms increased in control group. A significant increase (p < 0.01) was observed in the mean serum zinc levels in the experimental group (102 +/- 4 vs. 76 +/- 3 mu g/dL) while changes in the placebo group were not significant. CONCLUSIONS: Despite observed improvement in symptoms of eating problems and serum zinc levels in the supplemented group, more study over a longer period must be carried out to achieve clearer results.