Preconception Zinc Deficiency Disrupts Fetal Development

Pregnancy News

Obie Editorial Team

  • The control group was fed a normal diet, containing an adequate amount of zinc, for four or five days before ovulation.
  • The study group received a zinc-deficient diet during this time.

When the mice became pregnant, the research team assessed development of the embryos and placentas at days 3, 6, 10, 12, and 16 of the 20-day pregnancy. The research team used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and light microscopy to evaluate the health and development status of the developing fetuses. They found:

  • The offspring of the zinc-deficient mice were 38% smaller, on average, than those born to the control group.
  • Fetal development of the zinc-deprived offspring proved to be delayed or abnormal in various ways, indicating inadequate nutritional support.
  • The fetal side of their placentas were poorly developed as well.

The Diaz team found low levels of DNA methyl groups in the eggs produced by the zinc-deprived mice. These groups work like chemical tags that support development of the embryo and placenta after fertilization. Diaz said “much less DNA methylation in eggs from zinc deficient mice suggest(s) that programming of the egg is defective.” Similar programming defects could affect the eggs of women who don’t consume adequate amounts of zinc before becoming pregnant.

The human body does not need much zinc but a steady supply of it is important. The body processes zinc quickly so more is needed on a regular basis.

A diet rich in grains hinders zinc absorption. Seafood, meats, dairy, almonds, cashews, and chickpeas (garbanzo beans) are good sources of zinc. Supplements can be taken as well.


Sources:

  1. Diaz, Francisco J, et al. “Preconception Zinc Deficiency Disrupts Postimplantation Fetal and Placental Development in Mice.” Biology of Reproduction. Society for the Study of Reproduction. Mar 1, 2014. Web. Jun 15, 2014.
  2. “Zinc: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.” NIH Health Information. National Institutes of Health Office of Dietary Supplements. Jun 5, 2013. Web. Jun 15, 2014.