Selenium, Iron and Zinc Important for Blood Flow to the Extremities

by CP Staff

A recent study examined the role of trace elements and blood flow to the extremities. Blood flow to the arms and legs can be affected by the formation of deposits or inflammation in the arteries.

In this study, 50 subjects with reduced blood flow to the extremities and 25 healthy controls were evaluated for serum levels of minerals and metals including selenium, zinc, copper, iron, cadmium and lead. Additionally, measurements of oxidative stress were evaluated including red blood cell glutathione, red blood cell glutathione peroxidase and malondialdehyde in red blood cells and plasma.

The results of the study showed that the subjects with inflammation and deposits in the arteries of the extremities had significantly reduced levels of selenium and zinc and increased copper and lead compared to the other subjects. These subjects also had significantly lower red blood cell levels of the antioxidant glutathione and glutathione peroxidase enzyme activity. Furthermore, levels of plasma and red blood cell malondialdehyde, a marker of oxidative stress, were significantly increased in these subjects.

The study also found that the subjects with decreased blood flow to the extremities due to plaque formation in the arteries had significantly decreased levels of serum, iron and zinc compared to the healthy subjects.

The researchers concluded that levels of trace elements, heavy metals and oxidative stress influence blood flow through the arteries in the extremities, and may play a larger role in those subjects with inflammation and clotting compared to those subjects with arterial plaque formation.

Reference:

Arslan C, Altan H, Akgün OO, Kiziler AR, Aydemir B, Güzel S, Besirli K, Bozkurt AK. Trace elements and toxic heavy metals play a role in Buerger disease and atherosclerotic peripheral arterial occlusive disease. Int Angiol. 2010 Dec;29(6):489-95.