Effect of physical activity and age on plasma copper, zinc, iron, and magnesium concentration in physically active healthy males.

OBJECTIVES: The concentration of nutritionally important minerals in circulation is under tight homeostatic control, however, physical activity and aging influence their body stores and nutritional requirement. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of both physical activity and age on plasma concentrations of copper, zinc, iron, and magnesium.

METHODS: Stratified cluster sampling was used for selection of study participants (N = 360) belonging to three physical activity groups: sedentary, moderately active, and highly active on the basis of their physical activity levels as 1.53, 1.8, and 2.3, respectively. They were also divided into six different age groups (18-20, 21-25, 26-30, 31-35, 36-40, and 41-45 y). We assessed nutritional status by determining their body composition using bioelectrical impedance method and measuring intake levels. Fasting blood samples were taken to separate plasma for analysis of copper, zinc, magnesium, and iron.

RESULTS: There was a major difference (P < 0.001) in the mean value of plasma copper, zinc, magnesium, and iron for the three activity groups. The plasma copper and iron concentrations were higher in the moderately active group (copper: 1.59 ± 0.05 mg/L, iron: 0.79 ± 0.22 mg/L) whereas zinc concentration was higher in the sedentary group (2.37 ± 0.29 mg/L). Both the highly and moderately active groups had higher plasma magnesium levels compared with the sedentary group. Plasma copper, zinc, magnesium, and iron levels also were influenced by age in a different pattern with respect to physical activity.

CONCLUSION: Physical activity-related energy expenditure and age play a remarkable role in deciphering the plasma mineral levels in the healthy individuals.