Relation between Serum and Dietary Zinc Levels and Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS) in Medical Students of Ain Shams University.

Abstract

IBS is one of the most common Functional Gastrointestinal disorder (FGID) and diseases of brain–gut interaction, characterized by change in bowel habits accompanied by recurrent abdominal pain, bloating, and disordered defecation in the absence of any underlying pathology of the gastrointestinal tract.

The main hypothesis of IBS pathology implies an immune activation probably involved in a sort of low-grade inflammation and increased mucosal permeability that activates local reflex mechanisms, stimulating secretion and sensory pathways that lead to increased visceral sensation.

Diet and dietary antigens play a huge role in the generation of IBS symptoms. Dietary manipulation (low FODMOP diet) was proposed to reduce IBS symptoms. As any elimination diet, it may be associated with nutritional and micronutrients deficiency such as vitamin D and zinc.

Zinc is an essential trace element plays a key role in the development and maintenance of all tissues. Several studies showed that low Zn consumption and deficiency may lead to the damage of intestinal mucosa. Also, the anti-inflammatory functions of Zn may reduce celiac disease symptoms, as well as other chronic GI disorders such as IBS and Crohn’s disease.

The present work aimed to measure the proportion of IBS and its subtypes in medical students participated in NAMES/ASU project and to correlate dietary intake and serum level of Zn with IBS.