Effect of Iron and Folic Acid Supplementation on the Level of Essential and Toxic Elements in Young Women

Abstract

Although simultaneous supplementation of iron and folic acid is justified, the potential interactions between these micronutrients and other elements are poorly known. In this study, we aimed to investigate the effect of iron and folic acid supplementation on the levels of selected essential and toxic elements in the serum of micronutrient-deficient young women. A total of 40 women participated in this study and were divided into two groups: study group (n = 23) (with iron and folate deficiency) and control group (n = 17). The study group received iron and folic acid supplements for 3 months. Blood samples were collected at baseline and after the completion of the study period. Women completed a 3-day food intake record. We calculated the body mass index (BMI) of all the participants. Cellular morphology was analyzed in whole blood, and biochemical parameters were determined in serum. Elements were measured in serum by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). According to our results, in the case of the study group, the supplementation of iron and folic acid restored their levels; however, it caused a significant decrease in the level of zinc, calcium, and magnesium. In the case of the control group, at the end of the study period, there was a marked decrease in the level of iron. Interestingly, there was an increase in the level of arsenic and vanadium in both groups. In conclusion, simultaneous supplementation of iron and folic acid impairs the level of zinc, calcium, and magnesium in women of childbearing age.

Determination by ICP-MS of Essential and Toxic Trace Elements in Gums and Carrageenans Used as Food Additives Commercially Available in the Portuguese Market

“…Iron is an essential micronutrient for humans as it is vital for cellular homeostasis, energy-producing processes (such as ATP), oxygen transport, and antioxidant activity [ 18 ]. Excessive levels of Fe in the body can have negative effects, and excessive intake interferes with the absorption of divalent trace elements [ 18 ].…”

“…Iron is an essential micronutrient for humans as it is vital for cellular homeostasis, energy-producing processes (such as ATP), oxygen transport, and antioxidant activity [ 18 ]. Excessive levels of Fe in the body can have negative effects, and excessive intake interferes with the absorption of divalent trace elements [ 18 ]. It is known that Fe toxicity is mediated by the generation of ROS, which induces inflammation, promoting tissue damage and organ dysfunction [ 19 , 20 , 21 ].…”

Adherence Does Not Guarantee the Outcome of Iron Supplementation for Reproductive-Age Women With Anemia in West Papua Province, Indonesia: A Quasi-experimental Study

“…This traditional chewing gum is widely consumed in Papua by people of all ages, including children and the elderly. Calcium inhibits the absorption of iron particles dissolved in the blood vessels, which are required to form erythrocytes that supply nutrients to cells (23,24). The surveys on the knowledge of anemia suggested that more than half of the participants have a poor understanding of what anemia is, what may cause anemia, and what may be affected by anemia (Table 1).…”

Taking Preventive Strategies Reduces the Risks from Pregnancy to Childbirth

“…Not only women should take the folic acid, but men should too, because folic acid supplementation in the first 3 months of pregnancy can effectively prevent the baby from developing neural tube defects in the future 21 . In addition, the couple eat more fresh fruits and vegetables, for men and women who are deficient in calcium should be properly supplemented with calcium, especially women, to ensure that there is no calcium deficiency after pregnancy.…”