ABSTRACT
Zinc(Zn) and copper(Cu) balance tests were conducted in patients with diabetes mellitus. The results revealed that the negative balance of Zn and excessive positive balance of Cu were much improved after the management of diabetes mellitus. In addition, a close relationship was found between serum glucose concentration and the disorder of Zn and Cu balance, i.e. serum Zn level, apparent intestinal absorption rate and balance status of Zn were reversely related to serum glucose concentration, whereas urinary Zn, serum Cu level and apparent intestinal absorption of Cu were positively correlated to serum glucose concentration. Poly-factor analysis suggested that hyperzincuria and malabsorption of Zn were the main factors concerning negative Zn balance.