Pediatr Gastroenterol Hepatol Nutr.  2012 Sep;15(3):145-150.

Micronutrient Deficiency Syndrome: Zinc, Copper and Selenium

• Lee JH

Abstract

Nutrients are defined as not only having nutritive values of participating in the metabolism and building the structures of cells but also being safe for human body. Nutrients are divided into two types, macronutrient and micronutrient, according to the proportion of the human body. Commonly, micronutrients include trace elements (trace mineral) and vitamins (complex organic molecules). It is difficult to demonstrate micronutrient deficiency because the symptoms are varied and laboratory analyses are limited. Since parenteral nutrition became an established therapy, micronutrient deficiency syndromes are being identified more frequently and emphasize the importance of a complete nutritional support. In this article, we review various specific trace element deficiency states such as zinc, copper, and selenium and briefly discuss the use of dietary supplements.

Keyword

Zinc; Copper; Selenium; Dietary supplements; Child

MeSH Terms

Child
Copper
Dietary Supplements
Human Body
Humans
Micronutrients
Nutritional Support
Nutritive Value
Parenteral Nutrition
Selenium
Trace Elements
Vitamins
Zinc
Copper
Micronutrients
Selenium
Trace Elements
Vitamins
Zinc

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