Effect of Timing of Micronutrient Powder Consumption on Iron Absorption in Infants
Effect of Timing of Micronutrient Powder Consumption on Iron Absorption in Infants
NCT ID: NCT02989311 Phase: NA Status: COMPLETED Enrollment: 23 Completion: 2016-12
Conditions
Anemia, Iron Deficiency
Interventions
Fortified maize porridge (MNP and Iron), Fortified Maize porridge (MNP + Iron + GOS)
Summary
Infants and young children in sub-Saharan Africa have high rates of iron deficiency anemia (IDA), which adversely affects their growth and cognitive development. In-home iron fortification of complementary foods using micronutrient powders (MNPs) reduces risk for IDA by ensuring that the iron needs of infants and young children are met without changing their traditional diet. In order to optimize iron absorption timing of MNP consumption might as well be important. This is because hepcidin, a key regulator of systemic iron balance, shows a circadian increase that may influence morning versus afternoon iron absorption from the MNP. Furthermore, a single dose of iron can increase hepcidin levels and potentially inhibit iron absorption from a second dose, consumed close in time to the first dose.
To determine the difference between i) morning versus afternoon iron absorption and ii) consecutive versus alternate day iron absorption, investigators will enrol 20 infants from Kwale County aged 6-14 months and conduct two studies. In study 1, infants will consume 2 test meals consisting of maize porridge containing isotopically labelled Ferrous Sulphate in the morning and afternoon on 2 days. In study 2, infants will consume 3 test meals consisting of maize porridge containing isotopically labelled Ferrous Sulphate on two consecutive days and 1 alternate day. In both studies, fourteen days after the last test meal administration, a whole blood sample will be collected by venipuncture for iron isotopic analysis. Iron and inflammation status parameter will be determined at baseline and endpoint. Hepcidin concentrations will be measured before the morning and afternoon meals (study 1) and after second consecutive meal (study 2).
Knowing the effect of time on the expected iron absorption will inform decisions on the ideal timing of MNP to cover the infant's requirement for absorbed iron.
Primary Outcome
Change from baseline in isotopic ratio of iron in blood at day 18 and 19 for Study 1 and 2 respectively