The effects of zinc supplementation on serum zinc, alkaline phosphatase activity and fracture healing of bones.

Abstract

OBJECTIVES To determine the effect of zinc supplementation on callus formation, serum zinc and alkaline phosphatase activity in humans. METHODS This randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled clinical trial was conducted on 60 patients with traumatic bone fracture referred to Shohada Hospital of Tabriz, Iran from August to December 2007. Subjects were randomly divided into 2 groups: cases (n=30), receiving one capsule of zinc sulfate consists of 50 mg zinc each day and the controls (n=30), receiving placebo for 60 days. Individual and clinical information was determined by a questionnaire: nutritional intake by 3 days food records at the beginning and the end of trial. Serum zinc and alkaline phosphatase was measured by atomic absorption spectroscopy, and by enzymatic method. Callus formation during fracture healing was evaluated by radiography of the bone. RESULTS There was no significant difference in physical activity, gender, age, type of fractures, and nutrient intake, between the 2 groups. The administration of zinc caused a significant elevation of serum zinc and alkaline phosphatase activity. Assessment of bone x- rays showed a significant progress in callus formation in cases compared to the controls. CONCLUSIONS This study shows that zinc supplementation can stimulate fracture healing, however, it needs further study.