ZINC SUPPLEMENTATION IN THE PREVENTION AND MANAGEMENT OF DIARRHEA IN CHILDREN: A LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

Introduction: Zinc supplementation shows promise in the management and prevention of childhood diarrhea, a condition of great global impact, especially in regions with limited resources. This mineral plays a crucial role in immune function and the integrity of the intestinal mucosa, essential for rapid recovery during episodes of acute diarrhea. The review focuses on exploring the potential benefits of zinc supplementation, addressing critical gaps in its effectiveness, especially in developing country contexts. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of zinc supplementation in preventing and managing diarrhea in children. Methods: A systematic literature review was carried out in the Pubmed and Scopus databases, with a 5-year filter and studies of high methodological quality in the English language. Results and discussion: 7 articles were selected to compose this research. The discussion about zinc supplementation in the management of childhood diarrhea reveals heterogeneous results among the studies analyzed. While some find significant benefits in reducing the severity and duration of diarrheal episodes, others question the universal effectiveness of this intervention. Studies highlight that smaller doses of zinc can be as effective as standard doses, but effectiveness varies depending on factors such as the child's age and nutritional context. Conclusion: Zinc supplementation shows potential in reducing diarrhea morbidity in children, but the mixed results highlight the need for more research to establish clear guidelines. In short, it is a promising strategy for improving global child health, and requires an adaptive, evidence-based approach to optimize its benefits.