+Gz acceleration affects the trace minerals zinc, copper, and chromium in serum and urine of humans

BACKGROUND: Research investigating the relationship between physical training and trace mineral concentrations has primarily focused on athletes. Few investigations, however, have specifically examined the alterations of trace mineral concentrations occurring in humans exposed to +Gz acceleration. Exercise alters mineral content; G-exposure is a form of exercise; therefore, G-exposure may elicit changes in mineral content. HYPOTHESIS: Exposure to +Gz acceleration may affect the concentrations of the trace minerals zinc, copper, and chromium in human serum and urine. METHODS: Blood samples were obtained from 7 men and 3 women, before and immediately after +Gz acceleration. Urine samples were obtained before, 30 min after, and 2 h after +Gz acceleration. RESULTS: The serum zinc concentration was significantly different after +Gz acceleration, decreasing from 90.6 +/- 21.0 micrograms.dl-1 to 80.8 +/- 14.4 micrograms.dl-1. The serum copper concentration was also significantly altered immediately after +Gz acceleration, decreasing from 111.7 +/- 27.5 micrograms.dl-1 to 98.5 +/- 35.2 micrograms.dl-1. The urinary zinc and copper concentrations, and the serum chromium concentration were not significantly affected by +Gz acceleration. CONCLUSIONS: The circulating levels of these minerals presumably change as they are transported to the tissues requiring greater amounts due to the increased physiological work associated with +Gz acceleration.