The effect of nutritional habits on maternal–neonatal zinc and magnesium levels in Greeks and Albanians

SummaryBackground & aimsLow Zinc (Zn) and Magnesium (Mg) concentrations during pregnancy are implicated with low birth weight, malformations and increased mortality and morbidity. We aimed to compare serum concentrations of Zn and Mg in Greek (N = 219) and immigrant Albanian mothers (N = 230) at delivery and in the cord blood of their neonates.MethodsA 60 day's food diary was kept from each mother. Zn and Mg sera concentrations were measured with atomic absorption spectrometry.ResultsCarbohydrates, total fat and cholesterol intake were significantly higher in Albanian mothers when compared with those of Greek origin. On the contrary, total protein and especially animal protein intake were higher in the Greek mothers. Magnesium intake was similar between the two ethnic groups, whereas Zn intake in Albanian mothers was evaluated lower (5.8 ± 1.4 mg/d) when compared with that of Greeks (10.8 mg ± 1.2 mg/d, p < 0.001). Mg serum concentrations in mothers and newborns were similar (2.08 ± 0.15, 1.98 ± 0.12 vs 1.92 ± 0.13, 1.94 ± 0.14 mg/dl respectively, p > 0.05). In contrast, Zn concentration was significantly lower (49.8 ± 1.2 μg/dl) in the Albanian mothers as compared with that of Greeks (62.2 ± 1.4 μg/dl, p < 0.001). Consequently, Zn concentrations were found lower in Albanian newborns (52.0 ± 1.4 μg/dl) than those of Greek neonates (61.8 ± 1.2 μg/dl, p < 0.001).ConclusionMg serum concentrations were similar in the studied mothers and their neonates. Zn serum concentrations were significantly lower in Albanian mothers and newborns than those of Greek origin, probably due to the reduced rich in Zn animal protein intake from Albanians. The latter may be the consequence of their low socioeconomic status.