Zinc concentrations in breast milk samples obtained from Palestinian lactating women: A cross-sectional study of signs of deficiency and dietary consumption of zinc sources

Zinc is one of the most crucial trace minerals that is needed for human health and development. This study was conducted to assess zinc concentrations in breast milk samples obtained from Palestinian lactating women. The study also aimed to assess associations between breast milk zinc concentrations, dietary zinc intake, and signs and symptoms of zinc deficiency. Breast milk samples were obtained from 58 lactating women. The demographic variables, dietary zinc intake, and signs and symptoms of zinc deficiency were also collected. Zinc concentrations were assessed using a graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrophotometric method. Of the lactating women, 7 (12.1%) reported loss of appetite, 6 (10.3%) reported sleepiness or lethargy, 11 (19.0%) reported changes in weight, 7 (12.1%) reported increasing hair loss, 8 (13.8%) reported having easily broken nails, 7 (12.1%) reported having immune diseases/issues, and 11 (19.0%) reported dermatologic issues. In this study, 21 (36.2%) of the lactating women reported high consumption of red meats or poultry, 22 (37.9%) reported high consumption of milk or dairy products, 19 (32.8%) reported high consumption of whole grains, 18 (31.0%) reported high consumption of fish or seafood, 12 (20.7%) reported high consumption of eggs, and 9 (15.5%) reported high consumption of zinc-rich drinks. In this study, the median breast milk zinc level was 0.091 [0.063, 0.15] mg/100 mL. Breast milk zinc concentrations were higher among the lactating women who were younger than 30 years, lived in urban areas, were employed, and reported high consumption of zinc-rich drinks. Breast milk zinc concentrations were affected by some demographic variables of the lactating women. These variables included, demographics, living conditions, and consumption of zinc-rich sources. Dieticians, lactation consultants, and other healthcare providers should educate/counsel lactating women on the importance of maintaining adequate breast milk zinc levels and consuming zinc-rich sources. More studies are still needed to assess the impact of zinc supplements on breast milk zinc concentrations.