Effect of Zinc Deficiency among Urban Non-Pregnant Women in India

Background/Aims: Zinc deficiency negatively affects during pregnancy. It's not known whether pregnancy leads to zinc deficiency due to increased fetal needs or whether the women are zinc deficient when they become pregnant. There is scanty information available on prevalence of zinc deficiency in India. Present study assessed the effect of zinc deficiency among non-pregnant women. Methods: A community-based cross-sectional survey was carried out in urban areas of two districts, Dharwad and Bangalore North of Karnataka state, India. All women were aged between 18 to 30 years and were willing to participate. A structured pretested interview schedule was developed to elicit information on various aspects of health and nutritional status. Serum zinc levels of sub sample were assessed and zinc levels less than 60 μg/dl were considered zinc deficient. Results: The 'F' test results showed significant difference with respect to intakes of sugar and milk and milk products. No significant difference was found for intakes of cereals, pulses, roots and tubers, green leafy vegetables, other vegetables, fruits and oils. With respect to nutrient adequacy, energy and protein were found to be almost equal to the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA) in both the localities while. Other nutrient intake were lower than RDA. Zinc levels were found to be normal in all the sub sample of both the localities. Zinc deficiency may occur during pregnancy due to increased fetal needs but dietary intake is below RDA. Hence, holistic approach in nutrition should be recommended for overall health.