[A study of the intake of zinc, copper and selenium by Moscow preschool children].

: The paper presents the results of comprehensive study of the provision of Moscow preschool age children with zinc, copper, and selenium, which involved assessment of their dietary intake of these substances, analysis of the provision with these trace elements by using non-invasive biochemical studies, and examination of the children's physical development and morbidity. Comparison of the data on the levels of zinc, copper, and selenium in the hair, nail, and saliva with scanty data available in the literature leads to the conclusion that Moscow preschool children show subnormal provision with these trace elements, which is not accompanied by clinical symptoms of their deficiency.