Abstract

Background and Objectives: Recent studies have shown the high prevalence of insulin resistance and zinc deficiency among hemodialysis patients. Zinc deficiency can be related to insulin resistance, as zinc is involved in the synthesis, secretion, action, and storage of insulin. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of zinc supplementation on lipid profile, insulin resistance, and as well as body composition in non-diabetic hemodialysis patients. Methods: In this placebo-controlled, double-blind, and randomized trial, 61 non-diabetic HD patients were randomly divided into Zinc gluconate (30 mg/d, n = 30) and placebo (control, n = 31) groups for 60 days. Fasting pre-dialysis blood samples were collected from all the participants in both groups for the determination of zinc, glucose, insulin, and lipid profile concentrations, respectively before and after the intervention. The body composition of the patients was measured with by BIA device. Results: At baseline, the mean level of serum zinc in patients was at the lower limit of the normal range for serum zinc standards. A significant increase was observed in the mean zinc level of serum in the experimental group while changes in the placebo group were not significant. Administration of zinc improved Glycemic status (FBS, HOMA-IR, and insulin) in the experimental group compared to the placebo group. Zinc supplementation led to a significant reduction in the mean serum triglyceride and LDL-c. Mean BMI, body composition, and body weight of patients in both groups did not significantly change before and after the intervention. Conclusion: Consumption of 30mg zinc gluconate daily for 60 days may have beneficial effects on glycemic status and lipid profile in hemodialysis patients, but further investigations are necessary.