Evaluation of Oxidative Stress in Malnourished Children at Indore, MP, India

Abstract

Background: Based on this study, there is reasonable evidence for oxidative stress in severe acute malnourished children. The antioxidant levels are decreased in an attempt to combat the increased oxidative stress. Therefore, appropriate use of antioxidants may be helpful in controlling the lesions in the patients of severe acute malnutrition. Objective: The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of oxidative stress in severe acute malnourished children. Material and methods: Serum Malondialdehyde (MDA), vitamin C and serum zinc were determined in 60 severe acute malnourished children (age 6 months - 5 years) and 60 age and gender matched healthy controls. Results: s. Mean serum MDA was found to be significantly raised and serum vitamin C and zinc were significantly decreased in malnourished children as compared to healthy controls. A significant positive correlation was found between vitamin C and zinc and negative correlation between vitamin C and MDA. Conclusions:  The present observations, it is evident that stress is created as a result of deficiency of nutrients in severe acute malnourished children. This stress leads to production of excess reactive oxygen species (ROS).These ROS lead to lipid peroxidation and consequent formation of MDA.

Key words: Malnutrition, MDA, Oxidative Stress, Vitamin C, Zinc, Indore