Abstract

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of smoking on nutrition intake, bone mineral density and blood mineral status. The subjects were composed of two groups: 100 smokers and 100 non-smokers was used along with a questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements, dietary intakes using 24-hours recall method were compared. At twenty subjects from each group were selected, bone mineral density were measured by quantitative ultrasound and plasma mineral levels were analyzed by ICP spectrometer. The average ages of smokers and non-smokers were 23.9 and 22.8 years old, respectively. The height, weight and BMI of the smokers were no significant difference. The average numbers of smoked cigarettes were 11.8/d and the average packyear was 3.1 in the smokers. About 97% of the smokers drank alcoholic beverages, while 85% of the non-smokers did. The smokers tended to eat less meals and dinner meal, but drink coffee more often compared to the non-smokers. The mean daily energy intake and CPF energy intake ratio were 2184. 9 kcal and 57.2 : 13.7 : 26.4 in the smokers and 2262.6 kcal and 55.8 : 13.1 : 28.6 in the non-smokers. The smokers consumed significantly lower intake of beta-carotene. There were no significant differences in bone mineral density of BUA, SOS and QUI. There were no significant differences in plasma levels of Ca, Mg, Fe and Zn. However, plasma Cu level of the smokers was significantly higher than that of the non-smokers. In conclusion, the smokers of this study showed a more undesirable dietary intake in the light of their low beta-carotene and high alcoholic beverages, and coffee. The plasma Cu level of the smokers was higher than that of the non-smokers, showing that Cu is involved in smoking. Therefore, it could be suggested that more systematic research be conducted with respect to Cu and smoking and that increased nutrition education and guidelines for smokers are required.

• Keywords: smoke; plasma mineral; bone mineral density