The Dietary, Serum and Urine Analysis of Boron and Micronutrients in Postmenopausal Women

Abstract

Objective: Boron is a nutritionally important trace element that interacts with other micronutrients. Boron plays a critical role in bone mineralization and metabolism. In the present study, the association between boron and micronutrients related to bone metabolism was analysed in postmenopausal women. Methods: In a prospective cohort study in 40 postmenopausal women 24-hour urine and blood samples were collected for sodium, phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, and boron. Daily food consumption, bone mineral density, and Fracture risk assessment tool scores were recorded. Results: The mean age was 53.2 ± 5.9 years. Dietary habits revealed insufficient dietary fiber and excessive dietary sodium. The serum and urine boron levels were 26.80 μg/L and 21.22 μg/day, respectively. Urine boron levels were lower in the osteoporosis group (p = 0.66). A negative correlation between urine Na and boron was detected (p < 0.001). Urinary Na and Ca are negatively correlated with Fracture risk assessment tool scores (p = 0.010, p = 0.019, respectively). Conclusion: The low urinary boron levels in our participants might be due to increased Na excretion due to excessive consumption of Na. Therefore, consulting postmenopausal women about their dietary habits is of concern. Further understanding of the role of boron in bone metabolism will help to accomplish new treatment strategies for osteoporosis and standardization of boron supplementation.