Zinc deficiency and intestinal microbiota

Abstract

Zinc is one of the most important trace elements in the human metabolism. This micronutrient is an important component of more than 300 enzymes that regulate anabolism and catabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and nucleic acids, as well as the expression of several genes. Zinc is essential for the formation and functioning of the immune system; it supports normal growth and development of the fetus during pregnancy, development during childhood and adolescence, and is necessary for normal sense of smell and taste. There is a confirmed association between zinc and gastrointestinal (GI) disorders: on the one hand, GI diseases with malabsorption syndrome cause zinc deficiency; on the other hand, zinc deficiency affects normal functioning of the GI mucosa, which manifests as different forms of chronic diarrhea, celiac disease, and Crohn's disease. There is a therapeutic strategy for the treatment of chronic diarrhea, which implies administration of a multicomponent medication containing the probiotic L. reuteri Protectis (L. reuteri DSM 17938), zinc, and a solution for oral rehydration. It ensures fluid and electrolyte replenishment, while zinc enhances their absorption, and probiotics increase natural protection of the digestive tract. Key words: Lactobacillus reuteri DSM 17938, zinc, zinc deficiency, chronic diarrhea, rehydration, children