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The Position Statement on the principles of nutrition for children aged 1-3 years emphasizes that proper nutrition of children at this age determines their optimal psychometric development and has beneficial effects on the process nutritional programming, which reduces the risk of diet-related diseases in adulthood. Continued breastfeeding in the post-infancy period, together with the proper introduction of complementary foods, supplies all the nutritional needs of the child. A varied selection of food products is important to balance out the diet of a child in the context of energy and nutrient needs. Attention should be paid to products not recommended for frequent consumption, due to the possibility of the early development of improper eating habits that can lead to undesirable health consequences. Due to the potential risk of deficiency, adequate intake of iron, iodine, calcium and vitamin D, as well as of n-3 PUFAs (which is often insufficient) should be provided. Adequate dietary energy and protein intake protects children against protein–energy undernutrition and is crucial for their proper growth and development. An important element in the assessment of the development of children involves monitoring their nutritional status and physical development by systematically measuring their body weight and length/height and analyzing their weight gain. It is necessary to diagnose the causes of being underweight/overweight in children. Physical activity (such as outdoor walks, plays, and games) and healthy sleep hygiene are recommended. Physical activity, an adequate number of hours of sleep, and the quality of sleep in early childhood may improve immunity, reduce the risk of excessive weight gain, and consequently reduce the risk of obesity later in life. Other issues discussed include the functioning of the digestive system as one of the determinants of the nutrition of young children, basics of proper nutrition, risk of nutrient deficiencies and development of proper eating habits in early childhood.

Background. There are few updated data on rates of hospital mortality of diabetic patients and length of their hospital stay on a country level. To determine such rates we provided analysis using claims data from a Nationwide General Hospital Morbidity Study carried out by the National Institute of Public Health – National Institute of Hygiene (NIPHNIH) in Warsaw from 2010 to 2018. Objective. The aim of the study was to analyze the nine years changes of in-hospital morbidity and mortality in diabetic patients and length of hospital stay using a comparative approach by gender, age and place of residence. Material and methods. The data on all patients from general hospitals in Poland treated because of diabetes were taken from a nationwide database, kept since 1979 by the Department for Monitoring and Analyses of Population Health of NIPH-NIH. This database contains information gathered under the Statistical Research Program of Public Statistics. Hospitalization rates were used to evaluate the ‘hospitalized’ incidence of diabetes (number of hospitalization cases due to diabetes per year by the analyzed unit of population). In-hospital mortality was calculated as the percentage of deceased patients out of all patients hospitalized due to diabetes. Results. The number of cases and hospitalization rates of diabetic patients was rapidly declining by 18.8% for type 2 (E11) and 23.7% for type 1 (E10) diabetes. The downward tendency in the scope of hospitalization affected mainly older women and rural residents. Hospital mortality due to diabetes rose up dangerously to 3.77% exceeding the rates recorded eight years earlier. Conclusions. The recent reduction in hospitalization rates of people with diabetes in Poland may be associated with an unexpected increase in hospital mortality.

Background. About 7 million people in Poland receive pensions. The amount of benefits paid to pensioners is reflected in the income at their households and expenses, including food expenses. Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the dietary patterns of Polish seniors in the retirees` households on the basis of an analysis of food consumption and energy and nutrient intake. Material and method. Food consumption evaluation was based on household budget survey conducted by Statistics Poland in 2019 throughout the whole country. Energy and nutrient intake were calculated using the conversion factors. Results. The consumption of unprocessed red meat in retirees’ households was 1.83 kg/person/month, meat products – 2.90 kg and kitchen salt – 0.24 kg. 6.52 kg of vegetables and 5.99 kg of fruit were consumed per person per month. The mean energy intake in members of these households was 2387 kcal/day. The proportion of energy from fat was high – 36.6%. 14.2% of energy was derived from protein and 49.6% from digestible carbohydrates. The share of animal fat (55.0 g) was higher than vegetable fat (43.7 g). It was associated with a high percentage of energy from saturated fatty acids – 13.4%. The content of polyunsaturated fatty acids was less than half of the saturated fatty acids. Calcium and vitamin D intake was low (658 mg and 3.8 μg respectively). Conclusions. Red meat, processed meat and salt consumption by seniors was too high in relation to the nutritional recommendations. Vegetables and fruit were consumed in amounts that are recommended. Seniors diet was improperly balanced, e.g. due to the high percentage of energy from fat, including saturated fatty acids. However, the intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids was low. Calcium and vitamin D intake was lower than Reference Intakes.

Background. Globalisation is the direct or indirect source and cause of many economic, social, political and cultural processes and phenomena. These processes also affect agribusiness and food production. One of the important developments in recent decades is the ever-increasing scale of food adulteration. Its consequence is a reduction in the level of food safety, both in its health and economic aspects. The latter is due to the presence of impaired, or even adulterated, food on the market, which exposes consumers to non-equivalent exchanges. Sectors particularly vulnerable to these illegal trade practices include meat and fish products. Objective. The aim of the article is to identify the dominating methods/categories of food adulteration using the example of the Polish market for the food production sectors of meat and fish. Material and methods. The research was conducted using data from the Agricultural and Food Quality Inspection (AFQI), the official food control institution responsible for quality and food adulteration controls in Poland. The study covered the period from 2010 to 2020. Results. Research has shown an exceptionally significant level and diversity of methods of adulterating meat and fish products. These products are adulterate much more often than other food products. The conducted research has shown many methods and ways of adulterating both meat and fish products. It is worth emphasizing that the greater concentration of counterfeiting methods concerns meat products. The study revealed an extremely significant variety of adulterating methods for meat and fish products, significantly beyond those typically cited in the literature. Conclusions. The results of the research indicate the need to intensify official food controls on the Polish market. In particular, this should apply to the group of meat and fish products due to their high level of adulteration.

Background. Nitrates, compounds commonly occurring in nature, are present for example in vegetables, where they accumulate and become their contaminants. It is estimated that approximately 70-90% of nitrates intake comes from vegetables, which are therefore the main source of human exposure to these compounds through dietary intake. The European Union legislation limits nitrates as contaminants to three leafy vegetables, i.e. lettuce, spinach and rucola. The EU Member States are obliged to monitor nitrate levels in vegetables which may contain significant levels of these compounds. Objective. To present the results of monitoring surveys on nitrate levels in radish and beetroot as well as in cabbage carried out in Poland between 2012 and 2019. Material and methods. A total of 966 vegetable samples were tested. Chemical analyses were carried out in accredited laboratories of the State Sanitary Inspection. Analyses were performed by spectrophotometric methods using nitrate reduction on cadmium columns or by HPLC. Results. The median nitrate content in beetroot was 1,260.0 mg NO− 3 /kg, whilst at the 95th percentile level - 3,222.2 mg NO−3 /kg. The levels of nitrates in beetroot preserves were lower: 1,030.3 mg NO−3 /kg (median) and 2337,2 mg NO−3 /kg (95th percentile). The median content of nitrates in radish and cabbage was 1,337.0 mg NO−3 /kg and 369,0 mg NO−3 /kg respectively, while at the 95th percentile the content of these compounds was found to be 3,381.5 mg NO−3 /kg and 1545,8 mg NO−3 /kg, respectively. Conclusions. The nitrate content in radish and cabbage does not pose a risk to the health of consumers, whilst the consumption of beetroot containing significant amounts of the above mentioned compounds may result in exceeding the ADI especially for young children.

The elderly are at greater risk of underweight and the associated risk of protein and energy malnutrition. On the other hand, the lower energy requirement with an often too high intake from the diet leads to the development of overweight and obesity.The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of underweight, overweight and obesity, including abdominal obesity in Polish elderly.The study included 300 men and 304 women aged 65 and over from all over the country. The nutritional status was assessed on the basis of anthropometric measurements: body height and weight as well as waist and hip circumferences. Based on BMI (Body Mass Index), the prevalence of underweight (20.0), overweight (25.0-29.9) and obesity (≥30.0) was assessed. WHR (Waist-to-Hip Ratio) was used to assess abdominal obesity (≥1.0 in men and ≥0.85 in women). Waist circumference was also analysed with regard to increased risk of metabolic complications (≥94 cm in men and ≥80 cm in women).Underweight was found in 1.3% of men and 4.3% of women. 55.3% of men and 40.1% of women were overweight, 20.3% and 21.7% were obese, respectively. In the case of people with excess body weight, abdominal obesity was observed in 50% of men and 70.1% of women. Waist circumference indicating an increased risk of metabolic complications was found in 44.1% of men and 67.5% of women.The prevalence of overweight and obesity in Polish elderly was high, especially in men. Overweight and obese people often had abdominal obesity. This type of obesity was more common in women. Elderly people, especially women, often have an increased risk of metabolic complications due to high fat accumulation in the abdomen. It was even found in elderly who were not overweight nor obese. Some elderly, mostly women, were underweight which increased the risk of protein and energy malnutrition.

Background. Adequate nutrition is one of the most important factors for influencing growth and development of children. Providing adequate amounts of minerals is extremely important in the developmental age, especially in periods of intensive growth. Calcium and vitamin D deficiency may have a negative impact on the health of children, both in the short and long term. Objective. The aim of this study was to evaluate the content of calcium and vitamin D in the meals of preschoolers and to compare the obtained results to Polish dietary reference values for children aged 4-6 years. Material and methods. The study was conducted in 40 randomly selected kindergartens in some Silesian cities and were concerning 1,746 children. 10-day-menus and preschool inventory reports describing the amount of food used for meal preparation were obtained from every kindergarten. 10-day-menus were analysed in terms of calcium and vitamin D content with the use of the Dieta 5 software. The obtained results were developed in Microsoft Excel 2016. Results. The analysis of 10-days menus showed significant deficiencies in both calcium and vitamin D intake in the assessed food rations. The mean calcium level was 416.0 mg while vitamin D was 1.47 μg. The content of calcium and vitamin D in the examined 10-days menus did not meet the dietary reference values. Conclusions. The necessity to modify menus in terms of increasing the consumption of the analysed nutrients was demonstrated, as well as the need to implement nutritional education for preschool staff and parents was suggested.

In research on the subject, the predictive importance of personal resources is indicated for diet quality.The aim of the study was quantitative assessment of diet depending on the level of generalised self- efficacy among elite Polish basketball players.Food diaries (2 training days and 1 no training day) of 48 basketball players were analysed. Further assessed were 144 food rations based on the Diet 6.0 program, and the results were compared to the current Polish nutritional standards. The Generalised Self-Efficacy Scale (GSES) was also used. Statistical analyses were performed by estimating Spearman's rank correlation coefficients (p0.05).The share of energy from proteins, fats and carbohydrates was 18.2%, 29.4% and 52.4%, respectively. Of the mineral salts, the average diet contained: 2,107.6 mg sodium, 2,918.3 mg potassium, 736.3 mg calcium, 1,372.2 mg phosphorus, 380.1 mg magnesium, and 11.6 mg iron. Of the vitamins, the average diet contained: 1,100.3 μg of vitamin A, 5.3 μg of vitamin D, vitamin E in the amount of 8.2 mg, 78.1 mg of vitamin C, 1.1 mg vitamin B1, 1.3 mg vitamin B2, 1.9 mg of vitamin B6, 271.7 μg of vitamin B9 and 4.7 μg of vitamin B12. It was also shown that as the sense of self-efficacy developed, the supply of energy, water, protein, digestible carbohydrates, energy from carbohydrates, sucrose and PUFAs also increased in the players' diets. At the same time, along with the increase in self-efficacy, the supply of: Na, K, Ca, Mg, P, Fe, Cu and iodine as well as vitamins: A, E, B1, B3, B6 and C, also increased in the players' diets.Incomplete diet balance has been demonstrated, as well as significant relationships between the level of self-efficacy and the supply of certain nutrients in the diet of elite Polish basketball players. The obtained results indicate the legitimacy of diet monitoring and nutritional education as well as considering personality traits in activities promoting maintaining a proper diet among athletes.

Background. The dynamic development and change of rural lifestyle patterns towards urban patterns has been noticeable since the second half of the 20th century. Nutrition, as well as the lifestyle in urban and rural areas, has undergone a process of urbanization, which is evidenced by the following an increasing number of overweight people. Objective. The aim of the study was to compare eating habits and frequency of consumption of selected groups of products between the urban and rural residents from the Subcarpathian voivodeship. Material and methods. The survey was carried out on a sample of 279 persons from urban and rural areas of Subcarpathian voivodeship. In this study, the diagnostic survey method consisting of 3 (different) parts was used. To check the significance of differences, U Mann-Whitney and Kruskal-Wallis tests were used; whereas correlations between variables were determined by the Spearman's rank of correlation coefficient and Pearson's chi-quadrat test. Results. In the part concerning eating habits, statistically significant differences occurred among others; for the circumstances of eating meals, the most commonly consumed snacks, food processing techniques and the most frequently selected fat. In the part concerning the frequency of consumption of individual product groups, significant differences occurred among others; for dairy products, grain products, fast food, alcohol. There was a correlation between the frequency of consumption of individual products and socioeconomic status. Conclusions. The quality of the diet and eating habits of urban and rural residents of Subcarpathian voivodeship does not differ significantly. The detected differences in eating habits were more influenced by the education and socioeconomic status of the examined group than the place of residence.

BSTRACT Background. In the elderly, nutrition significantly influences biological aging and physiological and pathological changes in the body. A balanced diet and physical activity are the key to good physical and mental health. Objective. The aim of this study was: (1) to perform nutritional screening tests in senior citizens residing in eastern Poland and (2) to evaluate the risk of malnutrition in elderly people who live with their families, seniors who live independently, and residents of nursing homes. Material and method. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) screening tool comprising a questionnaire with 22 questions and an abbreviated and survey-adapted version of the questionnaire (KomPAN) were used to investigate eating habits and self-perception of health and nutrition. A total of 398 correctly filled out questionnaires were selected and the resulting data were subjected to statistical analyses in the Statistica 10 program. Results. The BMI values of most respondents were indicative or malnutrition or risk of malnutrition, regardless of gender (mean BMI 23.88 kg/m2 ±5.08). Most overweight and obese respondents were female (p=0.0001). The observed decreased BMI values was significantly (p=0.0012, rs= 0.6714) correlated with lower food intake. Unintentional weight loss greater than 3 kg was most frequently noted in respondents living in nursing homes and living independently (p=0.0021). Eating difficulties also considerably influenced the respondents’ nutritional status. The respondents’ BMI values were significantly correlated (p

Background. The effects of a two-year educational Programme “Keep Balance” addressed to children and adolescents have been evaluated. Its purpose has been to implement the rules of proper nutrition and increasing the level of physical activity on the population level. Objective. The main objective of the evaluation was an indication if, after two years of programme activities, outcome indicators have been achieved. Material and methods. Approximately 400,000 pupils/students from 1600 educational units from the territory of the whole country have been included in the education programme. The efficiency evaluation has been carried out in a sample of n = 1506 pupils/students in the interventional group and n = 1589 in the control group. Education has been addressed to the entire school environment, pupils, students, parents, teachers, headmasters, and the local community. The survey methodology, body weight and height measurements, the BMI index, and EUROFIT physical fitness tests have been used to assess the effects of the education programme in the scope of knowledge and nutritional behaviour regarding physical activity. There were assumed outcome indicators. The certification of schools/kindergartens with “The Certificate of a School/Kindergarten Friendly to Nutrition and Physical Activity” has been used to evaluate the activation of school environments. Results. There was an improvement achieved over the assumed target points in the level of knowledge of pupils/students in the scope of nutrition and the role of physical activity, in the changes of nutritional habits, and in the results of physical fitness tests. There were achieved 20% increase in knowledge in the scope of nutrition and 5% increase in physical activity. There have been changes in the frequency in the consumption of the first breakfast before going to school (by 25% among the younger ones and by 17% among the older ones), an increase in the consumption of bottled water by 49% and reduction of sweet drinks by 19%. The percentage of the pupils/students consuming the recommended 5 meals increased by 33%. Physical fitness indicators were achieved over assumed 5% increase in the individual exercise tests. The Certificate was obtained after meeting the criteria and documenting the durability of the changes by 65% of 1600 educational units included in the Programme. A decrease in the frequency of overweight and obesity occurrence in the whole intervention sample by 1% was obtained; it was greater (but statistically insignificant) among younger students by 3.3% in comparison to the older ones where there was an increase of 1%. Conclusions. Summing up all achieved results the educational programme “Keep Balance” implemented on the population level aimed at children and adolescents has turned out to be effective and deserves to be continued after minor adjustments. Many positive changes have been identified as well as those that ought to be improved. Comprehensively included education and sometimes small changes in much of nutritional and physical behaviour have influenced the reduction of the percentage of pupils/students with excessive body weight, despite the fact that the average BMI has basically remained on the same level.

Background. A thorough understanding of nutritional needs, food attitudes, and preferences are necessary for aging societies. So far the detailed studies on food attitudes and their determinants among elderly people were relatively scarce. Objective. This research was aimed at the determination of relationships between food attitudes and some sociodemographic features among elderly people, students of the Third Age University in Poland. Material and methods. The study was conducted among 607 students of the Third Age University based on the authors`questionnaire. The survey was anonymous. The attitudes towards health benefits of foods, novel foods, light and organic foods, food as a reward and pleasure, restriction of food intake, and the packaging and composition of food were investigated. Results. The relationships between attitudes and gender, age, education level, professional activity, BMI index, and economic status were differentiated. The positive attitudes over 50% were noticed only for the health benefits of foods and the packaging and composition of the food. For the other attitudes, the neutral attitudes were dominant. The three significant relations between attitudes and sociodemographic determinants were notices only for gender, two such relations were found for professional activity, the economic status and BMI index, and relations between age or education level – only for a single attitude. Conclusions. The obtained results may be explained as a complex effect of specifics of this group and the overall tendency for conservative attitudes observed among elderly people. The food attitudes are significantly related to gender and other determinants become much less important for the surveyed group of the participants of the Third Age University.

Background. Nutritional behaviours are determined by numerous individual and environmental factors. Objective. The aim of the study was to analyse the frequency of consuming selected food product groups (with potentially beneficial and potentially detrimental effects on health) among physical education students depending on gender and home country. Materials and methods. The study was conducted among 219 Polish and 280 Spanish physical education students, using a standardised questionnaire for obtaining information on views and eating habits for people aged 16-65 (Kom-PAN). In the statistical analysis, the Mann-Whitney U test and t-test with independent estimation of variance were incorporated,the significance level at α = 0.05. Results. Among Polish and Spanish students, significant differences in the frequency of consuming certain product groups depending on home country were noted, with Polish students significantly more frequently consuming recommended products (fruit, vegetables, whole-grains, milk, fromage frais, and poultry), but also those non-recommended (purified cereals, cheeses with high fat content, butter, fried foods, sweets and alcoholic beverages). Spanish students significantly more often consumed recommended meals including legume seeds and sea fish, but also non-recommended products (red meat, fast food, sweets and energy drinks). Moreover, significant differences in the frequency of consuming selected product groups depending on sex were observed, with an indication of the tendency for less rational food choices among male students than female students, especially regarding the consumption of: high-milled cereal products, processed and red meat, fatty cheeses, fried foods, lard, sweets and energy drinks. On the other hand, women consumed sweets significantly more often than men, and less often legume seeds and fish. Conclusions. A limited prevalence of rational dietary choices among Polish and Spanish physical education students and their diversity depending on gender and home country have been demonstrated.

Background. In extensive world literature, there is no relationship has been noted between dietary patterns defined a posteriori ("data driven") and metabolic risk indicators, especially among medical and health science students. Objective. The aim of the study was recognition of dietary patterns defined a posteriori ("data driven") among students in discipline of Health Sciences in regarding to their levels of physical activity, as well as selected nutritional status indicators. Material and methods. The studied population group consisted of 609 respondents aged 19 - 30. Data was collected on: the frequency of consumption of 16 groups of food products, levels of physical activity, body weight and hight. Based on the data, the somatic indicators were calculated: BMI (Body Mass Index), WC (Waist Circumference) and WHtR (Waist to Hight Ratio). Four dietary patterns were identified using factor analysis, i.e. including two health-promoting factors, “vegetables and fruits” and “milk, fermented milk drinks and cottage cheese”, and two non-health-promoting factors, “carbonated drinks, energy drinks, alcohol and canned food” and “fast food and confectionery products”. The relationship between levels of physical activity, somatic indicators and dietary patterns was tested using the Chi-square test. Results. Respondents with a high level of physical activity were statistically significantly more often characterized by high intensity of all health-promoting dietary patterns and low intensity of one unhealth-promoting dietary patterns such as “fast food and confectionery products”. There was no statistically significant differentiation between underweight and normal body weight according to the BMI criteria or differentiation according to the severity of separate dietary patterns, but such a difference was found between overweight according to the BMI criteria and obesity according to the BMI and WC criteria. There was often a statistically significant relationship between overweight and obesity according to the BMI and visceral obesity with a high risk of metabolic complications according to the WC index, and a high intensity of unhealthy dietary patterns was more often observed than a high intensity of health-promoting dietary patterns. Conclusion. Effective programs and methods of nutritional education and motivation to change health behaviours should be implemented among students of Health Sciences, especially those who are overweight or obese, or have lower activity level values.

Background. Proper nutritional behaviors are one of the most important factors shaping our health, as they influence people's physical and mental state. Good eating habits help prevent many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type II diabetes, some types of cancer, and osteoporosis. The Polish population aged 20-34 years displays improper nutritional behaviors which may put them at risk of developing diet-dependent diseases in the future. There is a need to assess students' lifestyle, including their eating habits, as it would help adapt already existing education programs. Objective. We evaluated and compared eating habits and lifestyle of students studying cosmetology and physiotherapy in association with selected risk factors of civilization diseases. Material and methods. We used a standardized dietary questionnaire evaluating respondents' physical activity, smoking and dietary habits. The obtained results were compared with the recommendations from the Polish food-based dietary guidelines. We evaluated respondents' nutritional status based on their anthropometric measurements such as body weight, body height, hips and waist circumferences and then we estimated their body mass index (BMI) and waist hip ratio (WHR). Results. Students studying cosmetology and physiotherapy obtained on average 5.3 ±1.5 points based on their compliance with the nutritional recommendations. The academic youth did not meet principles of healthy nutrition according to the given recommendations. There were no significant differences in nutrition status between the faculties, except for products that provide complete protein. Conclusions. There is a need to increase nutritional awareness of academic youth, especially students of health-related faculties, because better knowledge on nutrition would help them choose healthier food options.

Background. Preschool children are particularly susceptible to dental caries development. Due to the fact that deciduous teeth are less mineralised, they are more likely to be affected by this condition. Therefore, preschool age is a significant period in shaping positive health-oriented attitudes regarding dental caries prevention. Objective. The aim of this study was to analyse hygienic and nutritional habits in children aged 5 from Biala Podlaska in the context of dental caries prevention. Material and Method. The study included 454 preschool children (251 boys and 203 girls) from Biala Podlaska. Their hygienic and nutritional habits were examined with a diagnostic survey using the authors’ own anonymous questionnaire. Mean consumption of nutrients (calcium, phosphorus and vitamin D) was estimated on the basis of average daily consumption calculated as a mean from three 24-hour interviews (conducted by the authors in a kindergarten or at children’s houses). A nutritional value of a daily portion was calculated with the use of "Dieta 5.0" software (National Food and Nutrition Institute). Results. Research results revealed that in the case of only one in three children, parents began toothbrushing within the first year of a child’s life. Approximately 90% of preschool children brushed their teeth at least twice a day. Half of the children under examination brushed their teeth for 1-2 minutes usually with a traditional toothbrush. Toothbrushing was supervised by 62.5% of the boys’ parents and 38.9% of the girls’ parents (p

Background A recently growing number of children and adolescents with overweight or obesity is indicative of the need for diagnosing their complications that may appear in the early childhood. For this reason, diagnostic criteria were developed for components of the metabolic syndrome (MS) also for these groups of the population. Objective This study was aimed at evaluating the frequency of metabolic syndrome risk factors occurrence in children and adolescents from the city of Wroclaw and surroundings depending on gender, age and physical activity. Material and methods Investigations on the frequency of occurrence of dietary and non-dietary risk factors of the metabolic syndrome were carried out in the years 2010-2017 among 771 children and adolescents aged 10-18 year, attending to primary schools, gymnasiums and secondary schools in Wroclaw. Results The lack of any components of the metabolic syndrome was demonstrated in 14.78% of the children aged 10-12 years as well as in 17.38% of both adolescents aged 13-15 and 17-18 years. One risk factor was most frequently diagnosed in children aged 10-12 years (17.89%) and it was arterial hypertension (16.08% of the whole surveyed population). Three MS components were demonstrated in 15 persons (1.95% of the whole surveyed population), including in 7 girls and 8 boys. The persons with three MS risk factors from the age category 13-15 years constituted 0.26% whereas these from the age category 17-18 years constituted 1.69% of the whole surveyed group. Conclusions It shall be concluded that the incidence of the fully symptomatic MS depended significantly on the age of the surveyed, but not on their gender. Among the three adopted components of MS, the most frequently demonstrated disorders included: arterial hypertension, abdominal obesity and increased concentration of triglycerides in blood serum.

Background This study is an introduction to the of learning key factors affecting the process of acceptance of edible insects by Polish consumers, currently only from Gdansk, Gdynia and Sopot (the Tri-City) in northern Poland. Objectives The aim of this study was to assess the attitudes of Tri-City consumers towards edible insects. It was expressed in the assessment of food diversity in relation to eating benefits of edible insects and to assessment of the levels of dietary neophobia for consumers who perceive the risk of eating them. This study contributes to consumers’ getting used to edible insects. Material and methods The study was carried out in 2015 among 788 participants ranged from 16 to 80 years. The criterion for participation was the place of residence - the Tri-City. The respondents were qualified in three age groups 16-20 years old, 21-40 years old and over 41 years old. The study was conducted using a survey method. The survey questionnaire included the following scales: the Food Neophobia Scale (FNS) and the Variety Seeking Tendency Scale (VARSEEK) perceiving benefits and perception of health hazards associated with the consumption of edible insects compared to traditional and culturally foreign food. Results The majority of seekers with a high degree of VARSEEK were men aged 21-40 with higher education. The degree of search for diversity in food significantly depended on factors such as gender, age and education. Gender statistically significantly differentiated the opinions of the respondents regarding the health benefits conditioned by the consumption of various products only in the case of snakes and crickets. A statistically significant effect of age on the opinions of respondents regarding health benefits was shown, which was related to the consumption of: snakes, locusts, horse, tarantula. Whereas it was highly significant when it comes to consumption of: snails, crickets, poultry, beef and pork was demonstrated. Age and education were the factors that had a significant influence of the neophobia level, while gender did not have a significant influence. Conclusion Respondents from the Tri-City were characterized by high openness to new food. The 21-40 age group with university education was particularly outstanding. More women than men had low levels of neophobia. At the same time, it was mainly men who were looking for diversity in food. The obtained results try to explain the issue of acceptance conditions of a new and rather controversial product, which are edible insects to the inhabitants of Europe.

The use of dietary supplements (supplementation) is the individual enrichment of the diet with ingredients naturally occurring in food. As a rule, dietary supplements should be used periodically. In nutritional practice, there are many indications for dietary supplementation, but the decision to take dietary supplements should be made by consumers wisely and only in justified situations, when there is a risk that the usual diet does not provide vitamins and minerals in an amount adequate to meet dietary recommendations. However, we should remember about the real dangers of taking too large doses of vitamins and minerals. Many people using dietary supplements, especially several types at the same time, may experience undesirable side effects and deterioration of health, and in addition, people taking medicines may seriously disrupt or weaken the effect of the drug, or even lack the therapeutic effect of the drug. The document presents 10 steps and rules for the use of dietary supplements available on the market, which are addressed to the general population.

Background. The lifestyle of young boys has impact on the risks of cardiovascular diseases. Objective. The aim of the study was to evaluate the effect of atherosclerosis risk factors determined by overweight and obesity and lifestyle, i.e.: eating habits, low physical activity and smoking cigarettes, on blood lipid profile of boys at the age of 16 to 18. Material and Methods. The study covered 369 boys from secondary schools. They were evaluated for the supply of dietary constituents with atherogenic and protective actions, for nutritional status acc. to Cole’s criteria, the level of physical activity, and smoking cigarettes. Lipid metabolism was determined based on criteria recommended by the American National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP). Logistic regression analysis was conducted and risk odds ratio [OR] was determined. Results. Analyses showed the boys to be characterized by overweight (10.8%) and obesity (2.7%), and by inappropriate concentration of total cholesterol (26.5%), LDL (13.3%), HDL (21.7%) and triglycerides (41.7%). High BMI turned out to be a significant risk factor of an elevated total cholesterol concentration: [aOR]=2.27; triglycerides: [aOR]=2.35 and LDL: [aOR]=2.41. Low physical activity was found to negatively affect the concentration of LDL: [aOR]=1.88. The boys smoking cigarettes were shown to have a reduced HDL: [aOR]=1.65. The total content of fat and saturated fatty acids in diet exerted a significantly negative impact on blood lipid profile of the boys. Conclusions. The lifestyle of the young boys was demonstrated to determine the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Overweight and obesity, abdominal obesity in particular, were found to be a significant risk factor of disorders in their lipid metabolism.

Background. Wealthy countries have observed in recent decades a fast-growing number of prostate patients, who require treatment and long-term cancer care. This trend seems to be connected with some demographic changes such as aging societies, better access to diagnostic methods with high sensitivity as well as large-scale secondary prevention (prostate cancer screening at early stage before clinical manifestation). Secondary prevention is becoming more accessible and widely applied. The expected effect of prevention is to improve overall survival while the mortality trend is decreasing. The prevention success requires highly effective healthcare system that must manage additional burden which is a consequence of the need to provide optimal treatment and healthcare in a big group of cancer patients diagnosed in effective prevention programms. According to the National Cancer Registry (NCR) the number of incidence from year 1980 – 1731 cases rose in year 2013 to 12 162 cases. Apart from incidence and mortality rates, the 5-year survival is a significant factor for the assessment of a population healthcare and healthcare system efficiency. The prognosis related to prostate incidence is 22 344 men in year 2025 in comparison to 12 162 in year 2013 – that would be a double rise in incidence. CONCORD-2 results (years 1995-2009) showed, among the others, that cancer curability for some cancers, including prostate cancer improved. In year 2018 the results of CONCORD-3 were published (years 2000-2014) showing a rising trend in improvement in prostate cancer curability in Poland Objective. The objective was to analyse the 5-year survival in prostate cancer patients in Poland, and in each of 16 voivodships, with the focus on changes in years 2000 – 2014 in comparison to European trends. Material and Methods. The analysis was based on the 5-year net survival (estimated in CONCORD-3) in prostate cancer patients diagnosed in Poland (NCR national data) and in all Polish voivodships. The 5-year survival of prostate cancer patients and its changes in years 2000 – 2014 compared between 16 voivodships, Poland in total and 28 European countries. Results. In Poland in years 2010 – 2014 the 5-year survival in prostate cancer patients was 78.1%, and compared to years 2000 – 2004 rose by 9.3 percentage points. Despite a systematic improvement in survival the differences between individual voivodships in Poland remained. In 6 voivodships the survival was higher than average for Poland and ranged from 80 to 82%. The lowest survival was in Opolskie voivodship – 72.3%. On a European scale, the curability of prostate cancer at that time was over 90% (9 countries), while Poland was among 5 countries whose total survival rate was less than 80% (from 72.3% - Opolskie voivodship to 83.6% –- Pomeranian voivodship). Conclusions. The 5-year survival in prostate cancer patients in years 2010 – 2014 in Poland was significantly lower in comparison to Western Europe countries, and favourable trends on a regional level in Poland were too slow to overcome high differentiation in Europe. It is expected that changing the structure and organisation of cancer care in Poland into a modern National Oncology Network Comprehensive Cancer Care Network, together with the use of the experiences from European projects, including iPAAC and better financing will contribute to improvement in prostate cancer treatment in Poland.

Background. Nutrition education is one of the most important factors determining the effectiveness of treatment and maintaining an adequate quality of life (QoL) in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes. Objective. The primary objective was to compare the influence of two methods of nutrition education on the QoL. The secondary objective was to identify other determinants of the QoL. Material and Methods. A randomized single-blind study was conducted between October 2017 and April 2019 at the Children’s Clinical Hospital in Warsaw. The study included 170 patients (aged 8-17) with at least 1-year history of type 1 diabetes, treated with insulin pumps. The participants were randomly divided into two groups: a control group (C) – traditional/ informative education methods, and an experimental group (E) – modern/interactive methods. PedsQL Diabetes Module 3.0 questionnaire was used in the assessment of the QoL. Total PedsQL score was the primary outcome. The secondary outcomes included the results obtained in five subscales of the questionnaire. The relationships between selected variables and changes in scores were also verified. Results. Data obtained from 136 patients were analyzed. In both groups no significant changes regarding total PedsQL were noted 6 months after the intervention. However, a significant reduction occurred as regards the scores of ‘Communication’ subscale in group C. Analyzing other determinants of the QoL, significant dependencies were observed between: the level of physical activity and a change in ‘Diabetes symptoms’ subscale, and the level of parents’ education and a change in ‘Treatment barriers’ subscale. Conclusions. Both methods of nutrition education exerted a comparable influence on the total QoL. However, modern methods were more effective in terms of the improvement in the aspect of communication. Additionally, moderate physical activity and parents’ tertiary education constituted valid determinants of various aspects of the QoL in children and adolescents with type 1 diabetes.

Chemical composition, organoleptic and physicochemical properties of natural groundwaters are varied and dependent on their geological environment. Determining the basic organoleptic properties – such as colour, taste, odour – as well as physical properties – such as electrical conductivity or redox potential – allow us to assess the stability of water chemical composition. Based on their origin, groundwaters can be divided into infiltration, as well as condensation, juvenile, metamorphic and relic groundwaters, which are currently of lesser value. Groundwaters sourced in Poland belong to various chemical types and play an important role in balneotherapy and the bottling industry. Of particular importance are thermal, bicarbonate, chloride or sulphate type waters. There is also a growing interest in humic waters found in the Wielkopolska region.

Background. A study reveals – against to common beliefs –less support between rural area residents in comparison to town-dwellers and significantly higher support for healthy, not for poor health research participants. Objectives. The aim of our paper was comparing support from spouse/partner, relatives, friends and strangers among people with good and ill physical health. A next purpose was to find differences of social support and experience of social undermining in urban and rural residential settings. Material and methods. The study “Epidemiology of Mental Disorders and Access to Mental Health Care, EZOP – Poland” was carried out on random sample of 24 000 of Poland residents and a 50,4% response rate, 10 081 computerassisted personal interviews. Of those respondents, 4 000 constituted a sub-sample asked to complete the social networks and support section of the questionnaire. Data were analyzed by age, gender, residential setting and marital status for statistically significant differences in the percentage of functional and structural social support being reported, using the chi-squared test with a significance level of 0.05 used to reject the null hypothesis (H0 = lack of relationship between variables). Results. A majority of respondents maintain that in difficult life situations, family and a close network of friends and acquaintances make it possible to openly discuss problems and obtain help. However, respondents who rate their health as “poor” or “very poor” significantly less often than healthy individuals experience support coming from their relatives, friends, or strangers. In comparison to urban areas, the extent of social support in rural areas is significantly limited. The rural setting offers less support and even less opportunities for interaction with relatives, friends, acquaintances and strangers. Negative social factors– low levels of trust, isolation from friends and family, lack of a social life, lack of a helpful neighborhood – are conditions significantly more often found in the countryside than in urban areas. Conclusions. Results obtained from the EZOP study shows that amount of social support received is higher in urban areas and among those who enjoy better physical health.

Background. Obesity and cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders are an increasingly common problem worldwide, also in the developmental age population. Inhibiting this process requires identifying risk factors that can be modified. Objective. The aim of the study was to identify the conditions of the occurrence of overweight and obesity in the Lodz youth at school age. Materials and methods. The survey was conducted in 2008-2012 among school students attending primary and secondary schools in the four districts of Lodz (city in Poland). The study involved 622 students aged 12-18: 309 girls (49.7%) and 313 boys (50.3%). The BMI index was calculated based on anthropometric measurements (mass, body height) and was interpreted on the basis of centile charts of Lodz children (overweight ≥ 85-95 centile; obese ≥ 95 centile). Youth health behaviors were analyzed based on a questionnaire of an original interview modeled on the HBSC (Health Behavior in School-aged Children) study. The obtained results were subjected to statistical analysis (single- and multi-factorial logistic regression analysis). Results. An excess of body weight was found in 23.5% of the examined youth. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, the factors significantly affecting the occurrence of overweight or obesity were: non-eating dinner (daily or sometimes, OR = 1.98); not eating fruit and vegetables every day (OR = 1.57), multi-hour passive relaxation time (use of TV, Internet, OR = 3.08) and low physical activity (OR = 1.76). Conclusions. Intensive promotion of a healthy lifestyle - increasing the awareness and knowledge of schoolchildren, encouraging proper eating habits and active leisure activities - can significantly affect the reduction of obesity risk factors. Health education is required at school for children, as well as for parents and teachers.

Background. Maternal weight during pregnancy may affect both, the course of pregnancy and the anthropometric parameters of the newborn. The steadily growing problem of excessive weight in reproductive-age women is associated with the risk for gestational obesity and its negative consequences for the infant. Objectives. The aims of the study were to analyze the following: (i) maternal weight gain as compared to the pre-pregnancy BMI, and (ii) the link between maternal weight and other environmental factors versus neonatal size. Material and methods. The study was conducted among 94 women in singleton term pregnancy, who delivered at the Department of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Oncology, Medical University of Warsaw. The American Institute of Medicine criteria for the recommended weight gain were followed. Multivariate logistic regression model and multiple regression analysis were used for statistical analysis. Results. Normal weight gain was observed in only one-third of the subjects, while excess weight gain was detected in as many as 42.5% of the women. Active smokers were at a 4-fold higher risk for excess weight gain as compared to nonsmokers (OR 4.13, 95% CI 1.19 - 14.34, p = 0.026). Infants born to mothers with insufficient weight gain (24.5% of the mothers) were lighter by 302 g (p=0.0405) and shorter by 2.4 cm (p=0.0025) as compared to those born to mothers with normal weight gain. Conclusions. Maternal weight gain in most of our subjects was not compliant with the current recommendations, regardless of the pre-pregnancy BMI. Inadequate pregnancy weight gain negatively affects the anthropometric parameters of the newborn.

The article presents the history of the establishment of the State School of Hygiene (PSH) in Poland after the First World War. The difficulties faced by the public health service in a country destroyed by war and created after the reunification of the lands, which for over 150 years remained under the control of three powers, were pointed out. It discusses how the foundations of modern teaching in the field of public health were created in the National Institute of Hygiene (PZH) in Warsaw, an institution to which the Ministry of Public Health entrusted tasks related to health education in the country. The State School of Hygiene was built by the Polish Government with a significant financial contribution from the John Davison Rockefeller Foundation. The official opening ceremony took place on 20 April 1926. The State School of Hygiene in Warsaw was the first such school in Europe. It educated professional staff for the health service in Poland, especially sanitary physicians, sanitary inspectors, nurses and staff to work in health offices. The importance and scope of influence of the State School of Hygiene as the Department of Education in the National Institute of Hygiene was constantly increasing, as evidenced by the number of students (about 800 per year) participating in courses, especially in the first years after its establishment. By the end of 1935, 6,389 students had completed the courses, including 1,900 physicians. Apart from the teaching activities, the State School of Hygiene also carried out research work. The State School of Hygiene was supported by the Rockefeller Foundation, which funded scholarships for the employees of the National Institute of Hygiene at university centers in the USA.

Background. It seems that one of the factors affecting the way of nutrition in Poland was the dietary habits of countries that in the late 18th century made partitions, ie. Russia, Prussia and Austria. Therefore, nutrition models in the areas of individual partitions have undergone significant changes. Objective. The aim of the study was to check whether after 85 years after regaining independence there were still differences in the way of feeding indigenous inhabitants of areas previously under Austrian, Prussian and Russian annexation. Material and methods. The data collected during the WOBASZ survey carried out in the years 2003-2005 were used for the analysis. Results. The greatest differences in the way of feeding were found in the area that was previously under the rule of Prussia. The nutrition model was still largely reminiscent of typical German cuisine. There was a large consumption of sausages and spreads, and small vegetables and fruit. Nutrition models in other areas were less characteristic. Conclusions. The way of feeding indigenous people living in areas that were once partitions of Poland is still diverse and similar to the cuisine of the occupying country.

In recent years, there has been a rapid increase in the number of electromagnetic radiation sources such as mobile phones and base stations of mobile telephony. This radiation has been classified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as a possible human carcinogen (group 2B). For this reason, many studies have been carried out on the impact of mobile telephony on human health. The largest of the experiments were carried out on animals. Due to the divergent results of many studies, there was no clear answer on the possible carcinogenic effects of this type of radiation on health. Detection of cancer shortly after an exposure is the most difficult task in analyzing the results. Some of the studies require repetition and verification of the results. In the case of negative effects of electromagnetic fields on brain activity, sleep, heart rate, cognitive function and blood pressure, no consistent evidence has been obtained either. In view of the increasing popularity of mobile phones, their location at short distances from the body (mainly the head) and the development of mobile phone technologies (which entails an increase in the number of base stations), further research, especially among young people, is needed. The duration of human exposure to electromagnetic radiation is subject to an increase and only further research can provide an answer on the possible negative effects of mobile phones and base stations.

Background. Mycotoxins – substances harmful to humans, are ubiquitous in the environment. Mycotoxins are generated primarily by Penicilium, Aspergillus and Fusarium genus fungi. Their presence is associated with the unavoidable presence of mold fungi in the environment. The presently observed adverse climatic changes could negatively affect agriculture, causing erosion and loss of organic matter from soil, promulgation of pests and plant diseases, including those originating from pathogenic molds, and also migration of certain mold species into new regions, ultimately creating more favorable conditions for generation of mycotoxins. Objective. The purpose of this work was to investigate contamination of cereals in Poland with Fusarium and ochratoxin A. Elucidating a correlation between precipitation levels in the individual Provinces and reported levels of the investigated mycotoxins, referring to the generally available meteorological databases, would result in more efficient planning of sampling processes and focusing further preventive actions associated with establishing sampling plans for the following years. Material and methods. Investigations were performed on cereal and cereal product samples taken by the official foodstuffs inspection staff. Some 100 samples were taken annually in the 2009-2012 period (357 samples in total). Tests were performed using high performance liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS). Precipitation data were obtained from the Central Office of Statistics, based on data received from the Institute of Meteorology and Water Management. Results. Analysis of the influence of precipitation levels during vegetation period on mycotoxin levels in the investigated foodstuffs was performed by associating each recorded content of deoxynivalenol (n=52, corresponding to 14.6% tested samples), zearalenone (n=30, 8.4%), total T-2 and HT-2 toxins (n=21, 5.9%) and ochratoxin A (n=88, 24.6%) above quantification limit with precipitation levels within the Province from which the sample originated. Deoxynivalenol and zearalenone levels show distinct variability corresponding with variability of precipitation levels, well reflecting the reported higher deoxynivalenol and zearalenone levels observed during the rainy years of 2011-2012. Variability in average ochratoxin A levels was not statistically significant. The relatively higher mycotoxin levels in 2009 may result from the heavy rainfall and flooding of 2007-2008. Dependence between the precipitation levels and number of samples showing levels above quantification limit has been also observed for deoxynivalenol. However, a similar analysis made for zearalenone and ochratoxin A does not point to any significant relationship. No data analysis was possible in reference to total T-2 and HT-2 toxins content due to the insufficient number of results available. However, it should be noted that 21% analyzed samples in 2009 contained T-2 and HT-2 levels above the quantification limit, with average of 8.9 μg/kg, whereas in 2010-2012 only one sample of the 263 tested contained contaminants in quantities above the quantification limit. Conclusions. The model used for forecasting presence of mycotoxins in cereals does not allow its practical application during routine generation of official control and monitoring plans on national scale. Notably, tests performed show that exceeding of maximum contamination levels occurred just incidentally, notwithstanding the adverse weather conditions. Further systematic collection of data on mycotoxin contamination of agricultural crops is required for effective continued investigations.

Background. Mycotoxins belong to substances harmful to human health. They are found mainly in cereal products and their preparations. In particular, infants and young children who consume cereal products, including porridge and gruel, are exposed to these substances. Objective. The aim of the study is to assess the exposure of infants and young children in Poland to micotoxins (ochratoxin A. deoxynivalenol, nivalenol, fumonisins B1 and B1, T-2 and HT-2 toxins) derived from cereal products intended for infants and children. Material and methods. Samples of products (302) were taken from all over the country in the following three years (2011, 2012 and 2013). HPLC-MS / MS method was used to determine the test compounds. Results. Using the HPLC-MS / MS method, the assessment of population exposure in Poland to mikototoxins (ochratoxin A, deoxynivalenol, nivalenol, fumonisins B1 and B1, T-2 and HT-2 toxins) derived from cereal products (porridge, gruel) intended for infants and small children. Samples (302) were taken from across the country over the next three years. The exposure values obtained in the average exposure scenario range from 0.2 to 3% compared to the reference toxicological parameters. Considering that in the case of infants and young children, the tested products constitute a quantitatively significant part of the balanced diet of these consumers, and the remaining groups of foodstuffs, including vegetable products. fruit and meat and dairy products do not contribute significant amounts of mycotoxins to the diet can be accepted. that the level of contamination of cereal products does not pose a significant risk to the health of consumers. In the case of high exposure, it did not exceed 10% of the reference values for deoxynivalenol and the sum of fumonisins B1 and B2. These values were assessed as not relevant for the exposure of infants and young children. In contrast, in the case of zearalenone, the high level of exposure corresponded to 36% of the value of tolerable daily intake (TDI), and for the sum of T-2 and HT-2 toxins, the value of 48% of tolerable daily intake. In both cases, the contribution of pollutants to the diet was significant, but still remained 2-3 times less than the tolerable daily intake. Given, that cereal products are the main source of these contaminants, it can be estimated that exceeding the TDI value in relation to the total diet of infants and young children is unlikely. Conclusions. The exposure values obtained in the average exposure scenario range from 0.2 to 3% compared to the reference toxicological parameters. In the case of zearalenone, the high level of exposure corresponded to 36% of the TDI value. and for the sum of T-2 and HT-2 toxins, 48% TDI. The contribution of pollutants to the diet in both cases was significant. however, it still remained 2-3 times less than the tolerable daily intake. Considering, that cereal products are the main source of these pollutants can be assessed. that exceeding the TDI value for the total diet of infants and young children is unlikely.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, care for an adequate diet, well adapted to the body's needs and the current level of physical activity, becomes of particular importance. Many dietary compounds participate in the functioning of the immune system, while vitamins D, C, A (including beta-carotene), E, B6, B12, folic acid, zinc, copper, selenium, iron, amino acids, n-3 and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids and intestinal microbiota are crucial in various types of defence processes. There has been no evidence that consumed food and its compounds, including those with pro-/prebiotic properties, play a significant role in preventing SARS-CoV-2 infection or alleviating its course. However, in terms of the nutritional value of food and the prevention of dysbiosis, recommending a varied diet with a high proportion of plant-based foods and an adequate amount of animal-based foods has a sound scientific basis. Malnutrition, underweight and obesity are considered independent and prognostic risk factors of severe SARS-CoV-2 infection, which reduce a patient's chances of survival. Therefore, ensuring good nutritional status, including healthy body weight, is a reasonable approach in the prevention of viral infection SARS-CoV-2 or alleviating its course. The document is accompanied by two catalogues of practical nutritional recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic, addressed to the general population and children.

Background. Nowadays the importance of lifestyles in the prevention of type 2 diabetes and the metabolic syndrome has been largely accertained. Objective. The purpose of our work is to implement programs that promote a nutritional culture in adolescents and young adults of the La Sabana University. Methods. The methodology entailed, after the corresponding informed consent, taking measures of the triceps and supraescapular skinfolds, waist circumference, body mass index (BMI), lean mass, and fat mass. Fasting blood samples were also taken to quantify cholesterol, triglycerides, high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL). Results. The results obtained show that of the 165 students, 10.3% were underweight, 13.93% were overweight and 0.6% were obese. With regards to gender, 4.8% of the men and 9% of the women were overweight, 3% of the men and 7.2% of the women were underweight, and 0.6% of the women were obese. The blood chemistry showed that 30% had hypercholesterolemia, 18% hypertriglyceridemia, 17% reported low HDL levels and 67% reported high LDL levels. Of all the cases studied, 40% are at risk of a metabolic syndrome. 60% claimed not to practice any physical activity - especially women who reported 44.70%. Conclusions. These findings have allowed us at the institution to implement a culture of healthy habits. The have also allowed us to identify students with risk factors for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome. This is why the cardiometabolic monitoring and control based on healthy eating and physical activity are important.

Background. Lifestyle factors are the key determinants of health. Diet exerts the great influence on the weight to height ratio and the body fat percentage. In addition to total energy intake, the type and quality of the diet can also play a role in the etiology of obesity in susceptible individuals. Objective. Aim of this study was to identify the dietary patterns of the Polish population and to determine the associations between these characteristics and body composition parameters. This study presents the clustering of dietary models and body composition to determine the association of these dietary patterns with BMI, physique rating (body type) or visceral fat. Material and methods. The sample consisted of 402 respondents aged 18 to 65. Nutrition models were identified with cluster analysis. Logistic regression modelling with adjustment for confounders was applied. Three dietary-lifestyle patterns were identified. Results. Individuals belonging to the processed food model were at significantly higher risk of overweight and obesity expressed by BMI scores (OR=1.55; 95%CI: 1.26-1.89). The average BMI score was 28.19 ± 3.45 kg/m2 in the processed food model, 23.78 ±2.21 kg/m2 in the control group, and 22.17 ± 2.69 kg/m2 in the healthy nutrition model. Respondents belonging to the processed food model were also characterized by considerably higher body fat percentage (OR=1.89, 95%CI: 1.37-2.34) and higher visceral fat levels (OR=2.12; 95%CI: 1.42-2.34). Frequent intake (at least several times a week) of sweetened carbonated or non-carbonated beverages (p=0.002) and instant foods (p=0.006) were the main factors associated with the risk of higher body fat percentage and higher visceral fat levels. Conclusions. Dietary patterns have been proposed as a solution to investigating the association between food choice and body composition, and such studies focus on analyses of the entire diet, rather than on the intake of individual nutrients or food groups.