Is the Mediterranean diet adequate to satisfy zinc requirements during adolescence?

Abstract

AbstractObjectiveTo evaluate Zn utilization and status among a sample of Spanish boys consuming a diet based on Mediterranean patterns.DesignDietary Zn balance was assessed by means of Zn intake in food and Zn output in faeces and urine as measured by flame atomic absorption spectrophotometry. In addition, biomarkers of Zn status were analysed.SettingProvince of Granada, Spain.SubjectsTwenty healthy male adolescents aged 11–14 years, selected based on medical questionnaire, physical examination and nutritional survey of food habits and lifestyle.ResultsMean Zn intake was 11·36 (se0·31) mg/d, 76% of the recommended value for Spanish adolescents. Zn absorption (2·53 (se0·55) mg/d) was close to the value of 3·0 mg/d required for the growth spurt. Zn status biomarkers and growth parameters were within the normal values for this age group.ConclusionsAlthough a diet based on Mediterranean patterns is associated with factors which can affect Zn absorption, such as high consumption of phytate, its consumption in adequate amounts allows Zn status to be maintained during adolescence. Due to the importance of Zn in preventing growth and behavioural disorders among adolescents, long-term intervention trials to investigate the suitability of the Mediterranean diet with respect to Zn requirements at this time of life are needed.