Zinc Supplementation in Chronic Renal Failure

Zinc deficiency, abnormal taste acuity and decreased caloric intake begin early in children and adolescents with chronic progressive renal disease. This may contribute to their poor growth. We studied the effect of zinc supplementation, using a double blind crossover design, on 14 pediatric patients in chronic renal failure, but not yet on dialysis or in need of a transplant. Zinc supplementation increased red blood cell zinc concentrations and taste acuity. In those with less advanced renal failure (serum creatinine less than 5.0 mg/dl) it also improved caloric intake. No changes in growth velocity were seen, however, during the six months of zinc supplementation.