All issues > Volume 28(4); 1985

Original Article

J Korean Pediatr Soc. 1985;28(4):305-313. Published online April 30, 1985.

Zinc and Copper Concentrations in Human Milk.

Hwa Young Kim, Hyun Young Ahn, Young Yoon Choi, Tae Ju Hwang, Chull Sohn

¹Department of Pediatrics, Chonnam University, Medical School

Abstract

Human milk is the most appropriate of all available milks for the human infant since it is uniquely adapted to his or her needs. Zinc and Copper are essential for not only as the constituents of enzymes and their activators, but also growth, development and normal metabolism. Zn and Cu concentrations were observed according to the stage of lactation, parity, geographic distribution, socioeconmic status, educational levels, dietary status of mother and weight of her infant. Zn concentration of human milk was the highest in the colostrum (3days postpartum) and became to decrease in the later stages of lactation. There were significant differences(p<.01) between early(4~7 days) and late transitional milk(8-30 days),and between early(31 ^180) and late mature milk(after 181 days postpartum). Cu concentration of human milk was the highest in the colostrum and became to decrease in the later stage of lactation. There was significant difference(p<. 05) between late transitional and early and early mature milk. The inverse relationship was observed between Zn and Cu concentrations and postpartum days(Zn:r=-0.638 p<.01, Cu:r=-0.234 p<.01). In the cases of balanced with more animal diet. Zn concentration of human milk was higher than that of others(p<01). There were no significant relationship between Zu and Cu concentrations and parity, geographic distribution, socioeconomic status, educational levels of mother and growth status of her infants.

Keywords :Zinc; Copper; Human milk; Stages of lactation