TITLE:
Trace Element Supplementation and Serum Levels in Pregnant Women: A Randomized Double-Blind Trial in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of the Congo
AUTHORS:
Likilo Osundja Jérémie, Tshodi Bulanda Arsene, Lufuluabu Mpemba Alphonse, Lemalema Litanga Benjamin, Komanda Likwekwe Emmanuel, Juakali Sihalikyolo Jean-Jeannot, Buhendwa Mirindi Victor, Katenga Bosunga Gédéon
KEYWORDS:
Trace Element, Zinc, Calcium, Selenium, Pregnant Woman, Concentrations, Fluctuations
JOURNAL NAME:
Journal of Biosciences and Medicines,
Vol.13 No.11,
October
30,
2025
ABSTRACT: Introduction: The evolution of pregnancy demands increased energy and an enhanced supply of nutrients to support optimal fetal growth. This study aims to investigate the effects of trace element supplementation on the concentrations and fluctuations of these elements in the serum of pregnant women in Kisangani, Democratic Republic of Congo. Methods: This was a double-blind, randomized controlled trial that compared two regimens of supplementation in pregnant women with deficiencies in micronutrients such as calcium, selenium, and zinc. The study evaluated a supplement containing calcium, selenium, and zinc against a placebo. Research was conducted in Kisangani from January 10, 2024, to October 10, 2024. All statistical analyses were performed using R software, version 4.3.0. Results: The mean age of pregnant women was 28.1 ± 5.6 years versus 24.5 ± 5.7 years; and the mean BMI was 26.3 ± 3.2 kg/m2 versus 25.1 ± 3.4 kg/m2, in the control group and in the intervention group, respectively. In terms of trace element concentrations, there was an increase in the supplementation group, whereas a decrease was observed in the control group. Notably, the selenium concentration in the intervention group was elevated at 0.8 micromol/L, compared to a stable concentration of 0.4 micromol/L in the control group. Conclusion: Supplementation with micronutrients deficiency during pregnancy is a simple alternative to use in deficient pregnant women, which is very useful for increasing their concentrations, which are necessary for a good evolution of pregnancy and the fight against certain morbidities that can hinder the proper evolution and favorable outcome of pregnancy.