Determination of serum trace elements (Se, Fe, Zn), macrominerals (Ca, Na, Cl), and physical activity levels in COVID-19 patients

Abstract

Objective: This study mainly aims to determine serum trace elements, macrominerals, and physical activity levels in COVID-19 patients compared to healthy controls. Material(s) and Method(s): This prospective study was conducted among COVID-19 patients (group I, n = 20) and healthy controls (group II, n = 20). Serum trace element levels (Se, Fe, and Zn), macrominerals (Ca, Na, and Cl), vitamin D, ferritin, and physical activity levels were determined. Result(s): Of the participants in group I, 90% had Se deficiency, 65% had Fe deficiency, and 35% had Zn deficiency. In addition, 45% of the participants in group II had Se deficiency. There was Ca deficiency (60%), Na deficiency (40%), and Cl deficiency (30%) in COVID-19 patients. Healthy controls did not have any macromineral deficiencies. The trace element levels including Se, Fe, and Zn were not statistically significant (p > 0.05);however, the micromineral levels including Ca, Na, and Cl were significantly lower between groups (p < 0.05). There were vitamin D deficiencies in 90% and 70% of the participants in group I and group II, respectively. Ferritin levels were significantly higher in group I than group II (p < 0.05). All the participants had low physical activity levels in group I, and 40% of the participants had low physical activity levels in group II. Conclusion(s): This study showed that COVID-19 patients might have lower Ca, Na, and Cl levels than healthy adults. In addition, high rates of Se, Fe, Ca and vitamin D deficiencies, and ferritin levels may be seen in COVID-19 patients. Moreover, COVID-19 patients may have low levels of physical activity. Copyright ©2022 Dustri-Verlag Dr. K. Feistle.