Bioavailability of zinc oxide added to corn tortilla is similar to that of zinc sulfate and is not affected by simultaneous addition of iron.

Background: Corn tortilla is the staple food of Mexico and its fortification with zinc, iron, and other micronutrients is intended to reduce micronutrient deficiencies. However, no studies have been performed to determine the relative amount of zinc absorbed from the fortified product and whether zinc absorption is affected by the simultaneous addition of iron.

Objective: To compare zinc absorption from corn tortilla fortified with zinc oxide versus zinc sulfate and to determine the effect of simultaneous addition of two doses of iron on zinc bioavailability.

Efficacy of different strategies to treat anemia in children: a randomized clinical trial.

Background: Anemia continues to be a major public health problem among children in many regions of the world, and it is still not clear which strategy to treat it is most effective.

Objective: To evaluate the efficacy and children's acceptance of several recognized strategies to treat anemia.

Methods: Non-breastfed children (n = 577), 6 to 43 mo of age, were screened for the trial; 267 were anemic (hemoglobin < 11.