Serum carotenoids in eight Sri Lankan children

Abstract

Vitamin A deficiency is known to occur in Sri Lanka. Hence people are advised to consume foods containing carotenoids.

Blood samples were obtained from 8 children (age range 9-30 months) with yellow pigmentation of the skin, especially their palms and soles. Ethical committee approval and informed consent were obtained before taking blood samples. These children had consumed excess of carrot, papaw and pumpkin over a period of time that varied from 4 to 17 months, beginning at 3-7 months of the age. These foods were given as often as 3 times a day. Their serum TSH levels were normal. Blood (2 ml) was extracted into hexane and analysed by HPLC for carotenoids and vitamin A.

doi:10.4038/cmj.v53i2.240

Ceylon Medical Journal Vol. 53, No. 2, June 2008 pp.69