Search

Sparkling yet still nonfermented, nonalcoholic beverages include an extensive and ever-increasing variety of products that are part of western-occidental diet patterns mainly appreciated for their stimulant flavors, different components, and convenience of consumption associated with leisure time and socially-related activities. However, they are also controversial due to their nutritional composition and potential health related problems related to excessive consumption. The aim of this chapter is to draw an updated map of the nutritional facts in the different categories of nonalcoholic beverages on the Spanish and European market based on the information available on their labels, but also to provide an overview of the impact on diet quality. In fact, increased consumption has been translated into important changes in diet quality. In general, it is evident that there is a low availability of nutritional data in food composition tables and databases, but they are also not well updated. The latter contrasts within the large number and variety of products on the market and their increasing trends. Moreover, updated nonalcoholic beverage composition data relies mostly on label information as the main source. Finally, data about innovation and reformulation practices followed in Spain are reviewed.

IntroductionThe increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity has developed into an epidemic public health problem worldwide. In this regard, in the last years several investigations have suggested that water intake and water balance could have important implications for both weight management and body composition. The aim of this study was to analyse the association between fluid intake, water balance and body composition in a sample of healthy young adults from Spain.Material and methodsA total of 358 healthy subjects (121 males; 237 females) aged 18–39 years participated in the current study. The validated questionnaire entitled “The hydration status questionnaire” was used to assess fluid intake, elimination, and water balance. Anthropometric measurements (height, weight and waist circumference) were performed according to the recommendations of the International Standards for Anthropometric Assessment (ISAK). The estimates of total body water (TBW), fat mass (FM) and fat free mass (FFM) were acquired by bioelectrical bioimpedance analysis. Physical activity was estimated through the Short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ-SF). Differences in anthropometric and body composition variables were assessed through the ANOVA test and considered significant at p < 0.05.ResultsFluid intake was correlated with body water content in females (r = 0.180, p = 0.006) and males (r = 0.266, p = 0.003). An inverse association between water consumption per weight (ml/kg) with body weight (females (f): r = -0.318, p = 0.000; males (m): r = -0.220, p = 0.015), body fat mass (f: r = -0.320, p = 0.000; m: r = -0.200, p = 0.028), and waist circumference (f: r = -0.237, p = 0.000; m: r = -0.215, p = 0.018) was found. Finally, significant differences in body water content in females according to water balance were observed (p = 0.04).DiscussionHigher fluid intake seems to be related with a better body composition, therefore the improvement of water intake and water balance could be useful in weight management and in the prevention of overweight and obesity in healthy young adults.

At present, obesity and overweight are major public health concerns. Their classical determinants do not sufficiently explain the current situation and it is urgent to investigate other possible causes. In recent years, it has been suggested that water intake could have important implications for weight management. Thus, the aim of this study was to examine the effect of hydration status on body weight and composition in healthy adolescents from Spain. The study involved 372 subjects, aged 12&ndash, 18 years. Water intake was assessed through the validated &ldquo, hydration status questionnaire adolescent young&rdquo, Anthropometric measurements were performed according to the recommendations of the International Standards for Anthropometric Assessment (ISAK) and body composition was estimated by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Water intake normalized by body weight was positively correlated with body water content (boys (B): r = 0.316, p = 0.000, girls (G): r = 0.245, p = 0.000) and inversely with body mass index (BMI) (B: r = &minus, 0.515, p = 0.000, G: r = &minus, 0.385, p =0.000) and fat body mass (B: r = &minus, 0.306, p = 0.000, 0.250, p = 0.001). Moreover, according to BMI, overweight/obese individuals consumed less water than normal weight ones. In conclusion, higher water balance and intake seems to be related with a healthier body composition. In conclusion, higher water balance and intake is associated with a healthier body composition.

Excessive sodium consumption is associated with adverse health effects. An elevated dietary intake of salt (sodium chloride) has been related to high blood pressure or hypertension, a major but modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease, as well as to other ill health conditions. In the present work, our aim was to describe the contribution of foods to sodium consumption within the Spanish population in a representative sample from the &ldquo, anthropometric data, macronutrients and micronutrients intake, practice of physical activity, socioeconomic data and lifestyles in Spain&rdquo, (ANIBES) study (9&ndash, 75 years), to identify high consumer groups, as well as the major food groups that contribute to sodium intake in the Spanish diet. Intakes were assessed by 3-day food records collected on a tablet device. Sodium intakes across the ANIBES study population exceeded recommendations, as total intakes reached 2025 &plusmn, 805 mg of sodium per day, that is approximately 5.06 g/day of salt (excluding discretionary salt, added at the table or during cooking). Sodium intakes were higher in males than in females and within the youngest groups. Main dietary sources of sodium were meat and meat products (27%), cereals and grains (26%), milk and dairy products (14%) and ready-to-eat meals (13%). Given the established health benefits of dietary salt reduction, it would be advisable to continue and even improve the current national initiatives of awareness and educational campaigns and particularly food reformulation to decrease overall salt intakes across the Spanish population.

Resumen Introduccion La hipertension arterial (HTA) es un factor de riesgo cardiovascular modificable y su deteccion en edades tempranas podra permitir el diseno de estrategias para reducir el riesgo vascular en edades adultas. Objetivos Aportar valores de medida de presion arterial (PA) obtenidos con aparatos oscilometricos y fuera de la consulta medica. Material y metodos La PA fue medida con aparato oscilometrico validado, siguiendo el documento de consenso de la Sociedad Europea de Hipertension. Tambien se midieron la talla y el peso. Para relacionar los valores percentilados (90-95-99) de PA sistolica (PAS) y la PA diastolica PAD) con edad, sexo y talla se opto por utilizar la talla agrupada: T150 (≤150 cm), T160 (151-160 cm), T170 (161-170 cm) y T180 (≥171 cm). Resultados Se incluyeron 2.758 adolescentes de entre 12 y 17 anos. La PA aumenta con la edad, con diferencias de hasta 11 mmHg en chicos vs. 3 mmHg en chicas para PAS y de 3 vs. 1 mmHg para PAD. En PAS elevada, para los mas jovenes, la diferencia en funcion de la altura es de 15 mmHg en chicos vs. 8 mmHg en chicas, sin existir aumento significativo en los mas mayores en ningun genero. La PAD elevada varia en funcion de la talla: 10 mmHg en los chicos pequenos y 3 mmHg en los mayores, mientras que en las chicas la variacion es de 3 mmHg para todas las edades. Conclusiones Los valores de PAS/PAD en los adolescentes aumentan con la edad y, sobre todo, con la altura: las cifras llegan a ser muy similares en los mas altos, independientemente de la edad.

Cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s Disease, among other cognitive dysfunctions, has been recognized as a major public health problem. Folic acid is a well-known essential nutrient whose deficiency has been linked to neurocognitive dysfunctions, owing to hyperhomocysteinemia, an independent risk factor for cardio- and cerebrovascular diseases, including cognitive impairment, Alzheimer’s Disease, and vascular dementia. However, to date, there is certain controversy about the efficacy of vitamin supplementation in patients with these pathologies. Therefore, we have reviewed the available dietary intervention studies based on folic acid, either alone or in combination with different vitamins or nutrients into the progression of Alzheimer’s Disease and Cognitive impairment, highlighting the cognition and biochemical markers employed for the evaluation of the disease progression. Undeniably, the compiled information supports the potential benefits of vitamin supplementation in these pathologies, especially relevant to the aging process and quality of life, although more research is urgently needed to confirm these positive findings.

Low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS) are a group of food additives characterized by their high sweetness intensity and virtually zero caloric content, attributes that make them potential substitutes for added sugars in processed foods and beverages. However, there is currently scarce information available about both the different LNCS used in food products available in Spain and their consumption patterns. Prompted by these reasons, the aim of this research work was to identify the presence and consumption of LNCS in food and beverages consumed by a representative sample of the Spanish adult population (n = 507). For this purpose, a Food Frequency Questionnaire was carried out. Overall, it was found that 4.5% of the foods and 22.3% of the beverages consumed by the surveyed population contained LNCS. The food groups that presented the highest percentage of daily servings containing LNCS were non-alcoholic beverages such as soft drinks and juices (36.1%), sugars and sweets such as chocolates, candies, or chewing gum (14.2%), milk and dairy products (7.0%), meat and derivative products (5.1%), cereals and derivatives (4.3%), appetizers (1.7%), and, finally, sauces and condiments such as ketchup or mustard (1.0%). The main LNCS consumed were acesulfame-K, sucralose, sorbitol, aspartame, and cyclamate, although their prevalence of use differs greatly among foods, beverages, or tabletop sweeteners. Our results show the great diversity of food groups that are currently including these compounds as ingredients. Consequently, there is a need for these food additives to be included in food composition databases, which should be regularly updated to include LNCS in order to facilitate their assessment and monitoring in dietary nutritional surveys.

Introduction: at present, it is precisely the Mediterranean countries whose characteristic lifestyle was recognized as a health paradigm and promoted to the rest of the world, those who are at mostly at risk, in which it becomes necessary the immediate development of strategies based on education that may contribute to the adoption of a healthier diet and lifestyle. Objectives: to review the current dietary patterns in Spain, as well as its evolution in the last years. Methods: review of the studies that have been published in relation to the subject. Results: changes in the diet and lifestyle that have been introduced in recent years in Spain have led to a gradual decreased in the consumption of cereals and derivatives, potatoes and legumes, whereas an increase in the intake of meats and meat derivatives and non-alcoholic drinks has occurred. From the nutritional point of view, these trends resulted in an increase of the proportion of total fats (mainly saturated) and proteins (highly in those of animal origin) in the diet while complex carbohydrates have experienced a decrease (accompanied by a higher consumption of total sugars, including added ones). At the same time, the Spanish society should be considered as with a sedentary behavior. These facts have as one of the main negative consequences that Spain show one of the highest prevalence rates of childhood obesity in Europe, but also in adults. Conclusions: in this context, there is a need to promote the recovery of our culture (Mediterranean diet), and to return to feed and live according to patterns that have kept us protected during generations of many diseases. In fact, it should be important to try to answer the following question: If not so many years ago we had a food model that fulfilled all the recommendations of a healthy diet, which are the main barriers at present from returning to it?Introducción: en la actualidad, son precisamente los países mediterráneos, cuyo estilo de vida característico fue reconocido como paradigma de salud y promocionado al resto del mundo, los que se encuentran en situación de riesgo, en la que se hace necesario el desarrollo inmediato de estrategias que contribuyan a la adopción de hábitos saludables de vida. Objetivos: revisar los patrones de la dieta actual en España, así como su evolución en los últimos años. Métodos: revisión bibliográfica relacionada con el tema. Resultados: los cambios en el estilo de vida que han ido introduciéndose poco a poco en los últimos años han propiciado una progresiva disminución en el consumo de cereales y derivados, patatas y legumbres, y un aumento de la ingesta de carnes rojas y derivados. Desde el punto de vista nutricional, esta tendencia se ha traducido en un incremento de la dieta en grasa y proteínas, en detrimento de los hidratos de carbono complejos (y un incremento asociado de los azúcares totales, incluidos los añadidos). Al mismo tiempo, la población española, con independencia de la edad, muestra un comportamiento mayoritariamente sedentario. Todo lo anterior ha propiciado que España se encuentre en una situación preocupante, puesto que contamos con una de las tasas de prevalencia de obesidad infantil y juvenil más elevadas de toda Europa, fenómeno que también resulta grave en la población adulta. Conclusiones: se constata la necesidad de favorecer la recuperación de nuestra cultura alimentaria, a través de la educación, y de volver a alimentarnos y a vivir de acuerdo con unos patrones que nos han mantenido protegidos durante generaciones, tratando de responder a la siguiente pregunta: si no hace tantos años llevábamos una alimentación que cumplía con las recomendaciones de dieta saludable, ¿qué nos impide volver a ella?

Pregnancy and lactation are considered critical periods in a female's life. Thus, the maternal diet must provide sufficient energy and nutrients to meet the mother's higher than usual requirements as well as the needs of the growing fetus. The maternal diet must enable the mother to provide stores of nutrients required for adequate fetal development, and good health and quality of life in infancy and later adulthood. Among the food and beverage groups, milk and dairy products can play a very important role in achieving these targets due to their high nutrient density and bioavailability, as well as their availability and widespread consumption. The objective of this study was to evaluate the influence of maternal milk and dairy consumption on pregnancy and lactation outcomes in healthy women. This report mainly focuses on the effects of the mother's intake of dairy products on infant birth weight and length, fetal femur length, head circumference, gestational weight gain, preterm birth, spontaneous abortion, breast milk consumption, and human milk nutritional value. A systematic review of available studies published up to May 2018 was conducted. A preliminary broad search of the literature yielded 5,695 citations. Four of the investigators independently selected studies for inclusion according to predefined eligibility criteria. Thirty-seven full-text articles were evaluated for potential inclusion, and 17 studies were finally included. Six were prospective cohort studies, 3 were intervention studies, 3 were retrospective cohort studies, 3 were cross-sectional studies, and 2 were case-control studies. Although the number and types of studies prevent definite conclusions, there appears to be a trend that maternal milk intake during pregnancy is positively associated with infant birth weight and length. The lack of studies prevents any conclusions being drawn related to preterm deliveries, spontaneous abortion, and lactation.

Betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferases (BHMTs) are methionine cycle enzymes that remethylate homocysteine; hence, their malfunction leads to hyperhomocysteinemia. Epidemiologic and experimental studies have revealed a correlation between hyperhomocysteinemia and hearing loss. Here, we have studied the expression of methionine cycle genes in the mouse cochlea and the impact of knocking out the Bhmt gene in the auditory receptor. We evaluated age-related changes in mouse hearing by recording auditory brainstem responses before and following exposure to noise. Also, we measured cochlear cytoarchitecture, gene expression by RNA-arrays and quantitative RT-PCR, and metabolite levels in liver and plasma by HPLC. Our results indicate that there is an age-dependent strain-specific expression of methionine cycle genes in the mouse cochlea and a further regulation during the response to noise damage. Loss of Bhmt did not cause an evident impact in the hearing acuity of young mice, but it produced higher threshold shifts and poorer recovery following noise challenge. Hearing loss was associated with increased cochlear injury, outer hair cell loss, altered expression of cochlear methionine cycle genes, and hyperhomocysteinemia. Our results suggest that BHMT plays a central role in the homeostasis of cochlear methionine metabolism and that Bhmt2 up-regulation could carry out a compensatory role in cochlear protection against noise injury in the absence of BHMT.—Partearroyo, T., Murillo-Cuesta, S., Vallecillo, N., Bermúdez-Muñoz, J. M., Rodríguez-de la Rosa, L., Mandruzzato, G., Celaya, A. M., Zeisel, S. H., Pajares, M. A., Varela-Moreiras, G., Varela-Nieto, I. Betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase deficiency causes increased susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss associated with plasma hyperhomocysteinemia.

espanolIntroduccion: un estado hidrico adecuado es crucial para la mayoria de funciones fisiologicas; sin embargo, su evaluacion se encuentra obstaculizada por la escasez de herramientas de diagnostico e investigacion. Objetivos: desarrollar y validar un cuestionario que permita evaluar el estado hidrico de poblacion espanola adulta sana. Metodos: un nuevo cuestionario ha sido disenado y validado a traves de parametros bioquimicos en orina y sangre y contenido en agua corporal. El estudio incluyo finalmente a 39 sujetos sanos con edades comprendidas entre 18 y 39 anos. El consumo de alimentos y bebidas se evaluo empleando el nuevo cuestionario y un diario dieteticos de tres dias. La actividad fisica fue estimada a traves de acelerometria y con el Cuestionario Internacional de Actividad Fisica (IPAQ). La validez se determino analizando la correlacion de los parametros citados, con el balance y con la ingesta hidrica. El cuestionario fue administrado por duplicado, con un transcurso de 28 dias entre ambas cumplimentaciones para evaluar su reproducibilidad. Resultados: el balance y la ingesta hidrica se correlacionaron con la gravedad especifica y con el color de la orina. La ingesta hidrica se correlaciono con los resultados procedentes del diario dietetico. Segun el coeficiente de correlacion intraclase, la concordancia entre ambas cumplimentaciones fue moderada y el alfa de Cronbach indico consistencia elevada. El metodo Bland-Altman mostro que los limites de confianza eran aceptables para revelar la reproducibilidad de las medidas estimadas. Conclusiones: el cuestionario disenado constituye una herramienta de cribado valida y fiable para estimar el estado hidrico de poblacion adulta sana. EnglishIntroduction: adequate hydration status is crucial in most physiological functions; conversely, its assessment is hindered by the limited availability of research tools. Objective: to develop and validate a novel questionnaire that evaluates the hydration status of a healthy adult Spanish population. Method: a novel questionnaire was designed and validated relying on biochemical parameters related to blood, urine, and body water content. The study involved 39 healthy subjects aged between 18 and 39 years. Food and beverage consumption were assessed by the novel questionnaire and through a three-day dietary record. Physical activity was assessed using both: accelerometers and the Short International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ). Validity was determined by correlation of the aforementioned parameters with the water balance and water intake obtained by the novel questionnaire. The questionnaire was administered twice over the course of 28 days to evaluate its reliability. Results: water balance and total water intake were correlated with specific gravity, and urine color. Water intake obtained by the novel questionnaire was correlated with water intake results from the three-day dietary record. Intraclass correlation coefficient indicated moderate concordance between both recordings, and the Cronbach’s alpha revealed high consistency. Finally, the Bland and Altman method indicated that the limits of agreement were acceptable to reveal the reliability of the estimated measures. Conclusions: the questionnaire designed is a new valid and reliable screening tool to estimate hydration status of adult populations in dietary and nutritional assessment.

Betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferases (BHMTs) are methionine cycle enzymes that remethylate homocysteine; hence, their malfunction leads to hyperhomocysteinemia. Epidemiologic and experimental studies have revealed a correlation between hyperhomocysteinemia and hearing loss. Here, we have studied the expression of methionine cycle genes in the mouse cochlea and the impact of knocking out the Bhmt gene in the auditory receptor. We evaluated age-related changes in mouse hearing by recording auditory brainstem responses before and following exposure to noise. Also, we measured cochlear cytoarchitecture, gene expression by RNA-arrays and quantitative RT-PCR, and metabolite levels in liver and plasma by HPLC. Our results indicate that there is an age-dependent strain-specific expression of methionine cycle genes in the mouse cochlea and a further regulation during the response to noise damage. Loss of Bhmt did not cause an evident impact in the hearing acuity of young mice, but it produced higher threshold shifts and poorer recovery following noise challenge. Hearing loss was associated with increased cochlear injury, outer hair cell loss, altered expression of cochlear methionine cycle genes, and hyperhomocysteinemia. Our results suggest that BHMT plays a central role in the homeostasis of cochlear methionine metabolism and that Bhmt2 up-regulation could carry out a compensatory role in cochlear protection against noise injury in the absence of BHMT.—Partearroyo, T., Murillo-Cuesta, S., Vallecillo, N., Bermúdez-Muñoz, J. M., Rodríguez-de la Rosa, L., Mandruzzato, G., Celaya, A. M., Zeisel, S. H., Pajares, M. A., Varela-Moreiras, G., Varela-Nieto, I. Betaine-homocysteine S-methyltransferase deficiency causes increased susceptibility to noise-induced hearing loss associated to plasma hyperhomocysteinemia., This work was supported by the Spanish Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (MINECO)/ FEDER SAF2017-86107-R to I.V.-N., U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH), National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (Grant DK056350 to S.H.Z.), CEU-Banco Santander precompetitive project (MUSPB047) and CEUBanco Santander consolidation project (MBS18C12) to T.P., and Puleva BioFoods (to I.V.-N., G.V.-M., and M.A.P.). G.M. was supported by TARGEAR (FP7 PEOPLE 2013 IAPP612261).

espanolIntroduccion: el termino “azucares” engloba a un grupo especifico de carbohidratos. Constituye uno de los componentes mas controvertidos de la dieta, ya que su consumo excesivo se asocia con varios aspectos de la salud, de manera especifica, los azucares anadidos. Ello ha llevado a recomendaciones que limitan su consumo y a politicas de reformulacion con edulcorantes bajos o sin calorias (LNCS). Sin embargo, se constata una falta de informacion actualizada sobre la presencia de azucares y LNCS en la dieta, asi como su evolucion en el mercado alimentario. Material y metodos: revision de los estudios mas recientes disponibles. Resultados: se observa un numero limitado de estudios representativos sobre la presencia de azucares y LNCS en la dieta. Igualmente, hay carencia de tablas de composicion de alimentos (TCA) y bases de datos (BD) actualizadas y, ademas, en muchos casos poco comparables por la diferente metodologia utilizada o la distinta nomenclatura. En los estudios disponibles –entre los que se incluyen espanoles–, hay un consumo excesivo de azucares totales, y anadidos en particular, en relacion a las recomendaciones, y fundamentalmente entre los mas jovenes. Conclusiones: resulta imprescindible disponer de TCA y BD actualizadas y homologables internacionalmente, igual que de estudios epidemiologicos que analicen la relacion entre la presencia de LNCS en la dieta habitual y diferentes indicadores de calidad de la dieta y estilos de vida. Finalmente, se requieren de manera urgente estudios de intervencion validados. EnglishIntroduction: the term “sugars” describes a specific group of carbohydrates and one of the most controversial components of our diet, as public health authorities worldwide acknowledge that there is an excessive intake. Reformulation practices with low and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS) are being carried out worldwide. However, a lack of information about the present market status and evolution is highly recognized. Materials and methods: review of the most recent studies. Results: there is a lack of comprehensive Food Composition Tables (FCT) and Databases (DB) including sugar contents and many countries have developed their own for the estimation of sugar intakes or with the aim of monitoring changes in processed food composition. Moreover, surveys assessing carbohydrate and sugar consumption and their dietary sources are scarce and sometimes not comparable due to the different methodologies, FCT and DB used, and non-harmonised use of terms and nomenclature, especially for the estimation of added sugars. Results from studies show that total and added sugar intakes around the world are quite comparable in terms of percentage of total energy from diet and major dietary sources. WHO’s recommendations are being exceeded, especially amongst the younger population groups. Conclusions: future research on sweeteners, both caloric and low or non-caloric, should comprise the development of comprehensible, harmonized and updated databases of added sugar and LNCS, the evaluation of the frequent consumption of LNCS from foods and beverages and its potential association with an improved food model/pattern and lifestyles. Finally, intervention studies with LNCS are urgently needed.

espanolIntroduccion: en la actualidad, son precisamente los paises mediterraneos, cuyo estilo de vida caracteristico fue reconocido como paradigma de salud y promocionado al resto del mundo, los que se encuentran en situacion de riesgo, en la que se hace necesario el desarrollo inmediato de estrategias que contribuyan a la adopcion de habitos saludables de vida. Objetivos: revisar los patrones de la dieta actual en Espana, asi como su evolucion en los ultimos anos. Metodos: revision bibliografica relacionada con el tema. Resultados: los cambios en el estilo de vida que han ido introduciendose poco a poco en los ultimos anos han propiciado una progresiva disminucion en el consumo de cereales y derivados, patatas y legumbres, y un aumento de la ingesta de carnes rojas y derivados y de otras como las bebidas no alcoholicas. Desde el punto de vista nutricional, esta tendencia se ha traducido en un incremento de la dieta en grasa y proteinas, en detrimento de los hidratos de carbono complejos (y un incremento asociado de los azucares totales, incluidos los anadidos). Al mismo tiempo, la poblacion espanola, con independencia de la edad, muestra un comportamiento mayoritariamente sedentario. Todo lo anterior ha propiciado que Espana se encuentre en una situacion preocupante, puesto que contamos con una de las tasas de prevalencia de obesidad infantil y juvenil mas elevadas de toda Europa, fenomeno que tambien resulta grave en la poblacion adulta. Conclusiones: se constata la necesidad de favorecer la recuperacion de nuestra cultura alimentaria, a traves de la educacion, y de volver a alimentarnos y a vivir de acuerdo con unos patrones que nos han mantenido protegidos durante generaciones, tratando de responder a la siguiente pregunta: si no hace tantos anos llevabamos una alimentacion que cumplia con las recomendaciones de dieta saludable, ?que nos impide volver a ella? EnglishIntroduction: at present, it is precisely the Mediterranean countries whose characteristic lifestyle was recognized as a health paradigm and promoted to the rest of the world, those who are at mostly at risk, in which it becomes necessary the immediate development of strategies based on education that may contribute to the adoption of a healthier diet and lifestyle. Objectives: to review the current dietary patterns in Spain, as well as its evolution in the last years. Methods: review of the studies that have been published in relation to the subject. Results: changes in the diet and lifestyle that have been introduced in recent years in Spain have led to a gradual decreased in the consumption of cereals and derivatives, potatoes and legumes, whereas an increase in the intake of meats and meat derivatives and non-alcoholic drinks has occurred. From the nutritional point of view, these trends resulted in an increase of the proportion of total fats (mainly saturated) and proteins (highly in those of animal origin) in the diet while complex carbohydrates have experienced a decrease (accompanied by a higher consumption of total sugars, including added ones). At the same time, the Spanish society should be considered as with a sedentary behavior. These facts have as one of the main negative consequences that Spain show one of the highest prevalence rates of childhood obesity in Europe, but also in adults. Conclusions: in this context, there is a need to promote the recovery of our culture (Mediterranean diet), and to return to feed and live according to patterns that have kept us protected during generations of many diseases. In fact, it should be important to try to answer the following question: If not so many years ago we had a food model that fulfilled all the recommendations of a healthy diet, which are the main barriers at present from returning to it?

Hearing loss has been recently ranked as the fifth leading cause of years lived with disability, ahead of many other chronic diseases such as diabetes, dementia, or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease. Moreover, according to the World Health Organization, moderate-to-profound hearing loss affects about 466 million people worldwide. Its incidence varies in each population segment, affecting approximately 10% of children and increasing to 30% of the population over 65 years. However, hearing loss receives still very limited research funding and public awareness. This sensory impairment is caused by genetic and environmental factors, and among the latter, the nutritional status has acquired relevance due its association to hearing loss detected in recent epidemiological studies. Several experimental models have proved that the onset and progression of hearing loss are closely linked to the availability of nutrients and their metabolism. Here, we have reviewed studies focused on nutrient effects on auditory function. These studies support the potential of nutritional therapy for the protection against hearing loss progression, which is especially relevant to the aging process and related quality of life., This review was supported by CEU-Banco Santander precompetitive project (MUSPB047) and CEU-Banco Santander consolidation project (MBS18C12) to TP. MINECO (SAF2012-36519) and Instituto de Salud Carlos III (RETIC ARADyAL RD 16/0006/0021) supported MAP contributions., We acknowledge support by the CSIC Open Access Publication Initiative through its Unit of Information Resources for Research (URICI)

Diet quality is a modifiable factor that may contribute to the onset of diet-related chronic diseases. Currently, in Spain there are no studies that examine the intakes and sources for total carbohydrates, starch, total sugar, and fiber by both children consuming all kind of milks and children regularly consuming adapted milk formulas. Our goal was to evaluate the contribution of different food groups to total carbohydrates, starch, total sugar, and fiber consumption within the EsNuPI study participants by assessing their usual intakes by applying two 24 h dietary recalls that were completed by 1448 children (1 to, Instituto Puleva de Nutricion (IPN)

micronutrients are essential compounds present in foods and diets should provide adequate quantities to maintain growth, development and metabolic functions in men.to review the adequacy to micronutrient recommendations amongst the population from the ANIBES study.published data from the ANIBES Study was reviewed to assess intakes in relation to the Recommended Dietary Intakes (RDI) for each age group including total, plausible and non-plausible reporters.throughout all age groups, folates and vitamin D were the vitamins with the lowest proportion of subjects having intakes above 80% the RDI. Zinc intake was lower in children, adults and the elderly but not in adolescents. Nevertheless, vitamin D consumption increased with age.our results show inadequate intakes for at least three key micronutrients across all age groups. Authorities should promote nationwide nutritional policies to address unbalanced diets focusing on reaching vulnerable populations in order to overcome this major public health problem.INTRODUCCIÓN: los micronutrientes son compuestos esenciales presentes en los alimentos, y las dietas deben proporcionar cantidades adecuadas para mantener el crecimiento, el desarrollo y las funciones metabólicas del hombre. OBJETIVOS: revisar la adecuación a las recomendaciones de micronutrientes en la población del estudio ANIBES. MATERIAL Y MÉTODOS: se revisaron los datos publicados del estudio ANIBES para evaluar las ingestas en relación con las ingestas dietéticas recomendadas (IDR) para cada grupo de edad, incluida la población total, plausibles y no plausibles. RESULTADOS: en todos los grupos de edad, los folatos y la vitamina D fueron las vitaminas con la menor proporción de sujetos con ingestas superiores al 80% de la IDR. La ingesta de zinc fue menor en niños, adultos y ancianos, pero no en adolescentes. Sin embargo, el consumo de vitamina D aumentó con la edad. CONCLUSIÓN: nuestros resultados muestran una ingesta inadecuada de al menos tres micronutrientes claves en todos los grupos de edad. Las autoridades deberían promover políticas nutricionales a nivel nacional para abordar las dietas desequilibradas que se centran en llegar a las poblaciones vulnerables a fin de superar este importante problema de salud pública.

Low- and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS), intensely sweet compounds that virtually contain no calories, are used to replace added sugars in food and drinks. Knowledge about different LNCS data in Spanish foods and added sugar sources in Spain is limited, therefore our aim was to identify and compare their presence across main food groups consumed. Food and beverage products (n = 434) were obtained from the ANIBES Study (anthropometric data, macronutrients and micronutrients intake, practice of physical activity, socioeconomic data and lifestyles), a cross-sectional study of a representative sample of the Spanish population (9&ndash, 75 years old, n = 2009) carried out in 2013. Food records were obtained from a three-day dietary record using a tablet device. Label data from 1,164 products of different brands were collected and reviewed for content of added sugars and LNCS. LNCS were present in diet soft drinks (100%), &ldquo, other sweets&rdquo, (89%), soya drinks (45%), and yogurt and fermented milks (18%). Added sugars were present mainly in sugar soft drinks (100%), energy drinks (96%), sports drinks (96%), bakery and pastry (100%), chocolates (100%), ice cream (100%), breakfast cereals/bars (96%) and jams (89%). Main LNCS were acesulfame K, aspartame, cyclamate and sucralose. Sucrose, dextrose, glucose-fructose syrup, caramel and honey were the main added sugars. Our results show the diversity of foods groups including these ingredients. These data are not compiled in food composition databases, which should be periodically updated to include LNCS and added sugars to facilitate their assessment and monitoring in nutritional surveys.

Dietary habits amongst the Spanish population are currently a relevant cause for concern, as macronutrient profiles and micronutrient intakes seem to be inadequate and globally moving away from the traditional Mediterranean dietary pattern. However, recent food consumption patterns have not been fully assessed. In the present study, our aim was therefore to describe the current food consumption from the &ldquo, anthropometric data, macronutrients and micronutrients intake, practice of physical activity, socioeconomic data and lifestyles in Spain&rdquo, (ANIBES) study population by assessing data defined by age and gender. The ANIBES study is a cross-sectional study of a nationally representative sample of the Spanish population. A three-day dietary record was used to obtain information about food and beverage consumption. The sample comprised 2009 individuals aged 9&ndash, 75 years, plus a boost sample for the youngest age groups (9&ndash, 12, 13&ndash, 17, and 18&ndash, 24 years, n = 200 per age group). The most consumed food group across all age segments were non-alcoholic beverages followed by milk and dairy products and vegetables. Consumption of cereals and derivatives, milk and dairy products, sugars and sweets, and ready-to-eat meals by children was significantly higher than those by the adult and older adult populations (p &le, 0.05). Conversely, intakes of vegetables, fruits, and fish and shellfish were significantly higher in adults and older adults (p &le, 0.05). In order to comply with recommendations, adherence to the Mediterranean dietary patterns should be strengthened, especially amongst younger population groups. Therefore, substantial nutritional interventions may be targeted to improve the Spanish population&rsquo, s dietary patterns nowadays.

Cleft palate (CP) constitutes the most frequently seen orofacial cleft and is often associated with low folate status. Folate plays an essential role in the human body as a major coenzyme in one-carbon metabolism, including DNA synthesis, repair, and methylation. Whether the administration of isolated folic acid (FA) supplements prevents the CP caused by genetic mutations is unknown, as is its effect on the mechanisms leading to palate fusion.FA was administered to females from two different strains of transforming growth factor βFA supplementation significantly reduced CP severity and improved palatal shelf adhesion in both strains both in vivo and in vitro. Medial edge epithelium proliferation increased, and its differentiation was normalized as indicated by the presence and disposition of collagen IV, laminin, fibronectin, and cytokeratin-17.A maternal FA supplementation reduces the CP appearance by improving the mechanisms leading to palatal shelf adhesion.

Socioeconomic factors (SEF) can exert a great impact on food choices. However, limited data are available from the Spanish population. Our aim was to describe the influence of place of residence and habitat size on food group intakes. Data were obtained from the ANIBES study. A 3-day dietary record provided information on food and beverage consumption. Data analysis compared gender, age, Nielsen geographic areas, and habitat population size (urban, semi-urban, and rural). Place of residence did not appear to be a determinant for specific food group consumption during childhood and adolescence, as only higher intakes of non-alcoholic beverages were observed among children aged 9 to 12 years living in the East, when compared to those from the Northwest of Spain (p < 0.05). Food choices within adults (18 to 64 years) and seniors (65 to 75 years) were conditioned: sugar and sweets intake was significantly higher (p < 0.05) for adult men living in the Northwest than those from the South, and senior males from North Central areas had significantly higher consumption of eggs (p < 0.05) compared to the Northeast. Basic food group consumption was only affected during childhood and aging. Adults who inhabited rural areas consumed greater quantities of fats and oils than those from higher population densities (p < 0.01). Our results indicate that place of residence and habitat size have a limited influence on food choices, regardless of age and gender in the ANIBES study population. It is fundamental to acknowledge that other SEF variables are important and further studies are needed to monitor and assess these influences are warranted.

Background: Folates and vitamin B12 are key nutrients in one-carbon metabolism and related diseases. Updated and plausible information on population intakes and their major dietary sources is scarce and urgently needed in Spain in order to increase the knowledge that can lead as previous step to prevention by fortification and supplementation policies. Aims: The present study aims to evaluate main dietary folate and vitamin B12 sources and intakes in the Spanish population. Materials and methods: Results were derived from the ANIBES cross-sectional study using a nationally representative sample of the Spanish population (9–75 years, n = 2,009). Results: Food groups with the highest mean proportional contribution to total folate intakes in both males and females were vegetables (21.7–24.9%) and cereals (10.7–11.2%), while meat and meat products (26.4%) and milk and dairy products (27.3%) were for B12. Total median folate and B12 intakes amongst women were 156.3 μg/d and 4.0 μg/d while for men were 163.6 μg/d and 4.5 μg/d, respectively. In all age groups, vitamin intakes were significantly higher in plausible than in non-plausible energy reporters. Conclusion: A limited number of participants had adequate folate intakes, whereas vitamin B12 intakes were adequate for practically the entire population. There is a clear need for improving folates intake in the Spanish population., The study was financially supported by a grant from Coca-Cola Iberia through an agreement with the Spanish Nutrition Foundation (Fundación Española de la Nutrición (FEN)).

Proper hydration is essential to maintain optimal health and well-being at all stages of life, especially for the elderly. Side effects of certain drugs that affect hydration status may compromise the health of the ancients, who also constitute the most vulnerable group. No studies have been carried out, to our knowledge, at the intersection of drugs and hydration status. Our study aimed to evaluate the effects of chronic use of certain drugs (diuretics, corticoids and metformin) in the hydration status of the elderly. Results were obtained from a cross-sectional study with 96 volunteers (65–93 years) selected based on their pharmacological treatment. It included a validated food and drink frequency questionnaire and water removal, dehydration signs and symptoms assessment and urine analysis. All data were analysed by age and sex. Water balance decreased with advanced age, especially in men’s group. Results were confirmed by means of the evaluation of dehydration signs and symptoms and colorimetric and chemical analysis of urine. Correlations between consumption of corticoids and hydration status were found, with different signs depending on the administration route (Rho = 0.522 and Rho = − 0,522 for oral and pulmonary corticoids, respectively). Furthermore, correlations between diuretics (Rho = − 0.343, p

Background: Iron deficiency is one of the most common nutritional problems in the world. It is frequent in both developed and developing countries and mainly affects women of childbearing age and children. Methods: Results were derived from the ANIBES cross-sectional study using a nationally-representative sample of the Spanish population (9–75 years, n = 2009). A three-day dietary record, collected by means of a tablet device, was used to obtain information about food and beverage consumption and leftovers. Results: Total median dietary iron intake was 9.8 mg/day for women and 11.3 mg/day for men. Highest intakes were observed among plausible adolescent reporters (13.3 mg/day), followed by adults (13.0 mg/day), elderly (12.7 mg/day), and children (12.2 mg/day). Prevalence of adequacy for iron intakes as assessed by EFSA criteria was higher than for the Spanish Recommended Iron Intake values in all age groups. Females had lower adequacy than males for both criteria, 27.3% and 17.0% vs. 77.2% and 57.0% respectively. Cereals or grains (26.7%–27.4%), meats and derivatives (19.8%–22.7%), and vegetables (10.3%–12.4%) were the major iron contributors. Conclusion: Higher iron intakes were observed in adolescents and were highest for non-heme iron. The prevalence of adequate iron intake according to EFSA criteria was higher than compared to national recommendations, and women had the lowest intakes. Therefore, there is a need to define standard dietary reference intake to determine inadequate iron intakes in the Spanish population., The study was financially supported by a grant from Coca-Cola, Iberia through an agreement with the Spanish Nutrition Foundation (Fundación Española de la Nutrición (FEN)).

It is widely accepted that maternal folic acid (FA) deficiency during pregnancy is a risk factor for abnormal development. The tongue, with multiple genes working together in a coordinated cascade in time and place, has emerged as a target organ for testing the effect of FA during development. A FA-deficient (FAD) diet was administered to eight-week-old C57/BL/6J mouse females for 2–16 weeks. Pregnant dams were sacrificed at gestational day 17 (E17). The tongues and heads of 15 control and 210 experimental fetuses were studied. In the tongues, the maximum width, base width, height and area were compared with width, height and area of the head. All measurements decreased from 10% to 38% with increasing number of weeks on maternal FAD diet. Decreased head and tongue areas showed a harmonic reduction (Spearman nonparametric correlation, Rho = 0.802) with respect to weeks on a maternal FAD diet. Tongue congenital abnormalities showed a 10.9% prevalence, divided in aglossia (3.3%) and microglossia (7.6%), always accompanied by agnathia (5.6%) or micrognathia (5.2%). This is the first time that tongue alterations have been related experimentally to maternal FAD diet in mice. We propose that the tongue should be included in the list of FA-sensitive birth defect organs due to its relevance in several key food and nutrition processes.

Added sugars encompass a number of ingredients used to improve flavour, texture and many characteristics from food products. Their increased intake from foods and beverages has been described by several studies and public health authorities recommend reducing their consumption. The use of low and no-calorie sweeteners (LNCS) has acquired a central role as partial or total substitutes for these controversial ingredients. Our objective was to identify and update the availability and types of LNCS declared on product information accessible through on-line retailer shopping platforms from Spain and to compile a database. A total of 357 packaged products were evaluated and a variety of foods and beverages include LNCS in their composition: overall, soft drinks (20%, N = 70), fruit juices and nectars (14%, N = 49), yoghurts and fermented milks (13%, N = 47) and chewing gum and candies (12%, N = 44). The most frequent combination of LNCS found were acesulfame K with sucralose (22%, N = 81), followed by individual addition of sucralose (13%, N = 49) and sorbitol (9%, N = 34) whereas mannitol, xylitol, neohesperidine DC and lactitol were minor (≤1%). Data on LNCS distribution amongst food and beverage groups and their consumption amongst the Spanish population is still limited and due to the continuous evolution resulting from reformulation practices.

Different vitamin B12 and folic acid concentrations could exacerbate the immune response. The aim was to evaluate different dietary folic acid and vitamin B12 levels on the immune response in aged rats. Male Sprague Dawley aged rats were assigned to three folic acid groups (deficient, control, supplemented) each in absence of vitamin B12 for 30 days. Several parameters of innate and acquired immune responses were measured. Serum and hepatic folate levels increased according to folic acid dietary level, while vitamin B12 levels decreased. There was a significant decrease in natural killer cell-mediated cytotoxicity in the spleen for the vitamin B12 deficient diet and folic acid control diet groups. Significant changes in CD45 lymphocyte subsets were also observed according to dietary imbalance. Lymphoproliferative response to concanavalin A and phytohemagglutinin did not differ significantly between groups. The spleen response to lipopolysaccharide increased significantly, but was unmodified for the other organs. An imbalance between dietary vitamin B12 and folic acid concentrations alters some immunological parameters in aged rats. Therefore, the ratio between folate and vitamin B12 could be as important as their absolute dietary concentrations.

BACKGROUND The eye is a very complex structure derived from the neural tube, surface ectoderm, and migratory mesenchyme from a neural crest origin. Because structures that evolve from the neural tube may be affected by a folate/folic acid (FA) deficiency, the aim of this work was to investigate whether a maternal folic acid–deficient diet may cause developmental alterations in the mouse eye. METHODS Female C57BL/6J mice (8 weeks old) were assigned into two different folic acid groups for periods ranging between 2 and 16 weeks. Animals were killed at gestation day 17. Hepatic folate was analyzed, and the eyes from 287 fetuses were macroscopically studied, sectioned and immunolabeled with anti-transforming growth factor (TGF)-β2 and anti-TGF-βRII. RESULTS Mice exposed to a FA-deficient diet exhibited numerous eye macroscopic anomalies, such as anophthalmia and microphthalmia. Microscopically, the eye was the most affected organ (43.7% of the fetuses). The highest incidence of malformations occurred from the 8th week onward. A statistically significant linear association between the number of maternal weeks on the FA-deficient diet and embryonic microscopic eye malformations was observed. The optic cup derivatives and structures forming the eye anterior segment showed severe abnormalities. In addition, TGF-β2 and TGF-βRII expression in the eye was also altered. CONCLUSION This study suggests that an adequate folic acid/folate status plays a key role in the formation of ocular tissues and structures, whereas a vitamin deficiency is negatively associated with a normal eye development even after a short-term exposure. Birth Defects Research (Part A) 97:587–596, 2013. © 2013 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.

This is an open-access article distributed under the terms of the Creative Commons Attribution License (CC BY)., Dietary folic acid deficiency induced early hearing loss in C57BL/6J mice after two-months, corroborating the epidemiological association previously described between vitamin deficiency and this sensory impairment. However, this strain is prone to early hearing loss, and hence we decided to analyze whether the effects exerted by folate deprivation follow the same pattern in a mouse strain such as CBA/Ca, which is resistant to hearing impairment. Here, we show results of a long-term study on hearing carried out on CBA/Ca mice subjected to dietary folate deprivation. Systemic changes included decreased serum folate levels, hyperhomocysteinemia and signs of anemia in the group fed the folate-deficient diet. Initial signs of hearing loss were detected in this strain after 8-months of vitamin deficiency, and correlated with histological damage in the cochleae. In conclusion, the data presented reinforce the importance of adequate folic acid levels for the auditory system and suggest that the impact of dietary deficiencies may depend on the genetic background., RM was a fellow of the JAE-CSIC predoctoral program. This work was supported by grants of the Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (SAF2014-53979-R to IV; BFU2009-08977 to MP), the European Union (FP7-AFHELO and TARGEAR to IV).

The brain is particularly sensitive to folate metabolic disturbances, because methyl groups are critical for brain functions. This study aimed to investigate the effects of different dietary levels of folic acid (FA) on postnatal cerebellar morphology, including the architecture and organisation of the various layers. A total of forty male OFA rats (a Sprague–Dawley strain), 5 weeks old, were classified into the following four dietary groups: FA deficient (0 mg/kg FA); FA supplemented (8 mg/kg FA); FA supra-supplemented (40 mg/kg FA); and control (2 mg/kg FA) (alln10 per group). Rats were fedad libitumfor 30 d. The cerebellum was quickly removed and processed for histological and immunohistochemical analysis. Slides were immunostained for glial fibrillary acidic protein (to label Bergmann glia), calbindin (to label Purkinje cells) and NeuN (to label post-mitotic neurons). Microscopic analysis revealed two types of defect: partial disappearance of fissures and/or neuronal ectopia, primarily in supra-supplemented animals (incidence of 80 %,P≤0·01), but also in deficient and supplemented groups (incidence of 40 %,P≤0·05), compared with control animals. The primary fissure was predominantly affected, sometimes accompanied by defects in the secondary fissure. Our findings show that growing rats fed an FA-modified diet, including both deficient and supplemented diets, have an increased risk of disturbances in cerebellar corticogenesis. Defects caused by these diets may have functional consequences in later life. The present study is the first to demonstrate that cerebellar morphological defects can arise from deficient, as well as high, FA levels in the diet.

Folic acid (FA) is an emerging nutritional factor in the pathogenesis of diverse neurodegenerative disorders by still unknown mechanisms. The hippocampus is altered during the loss of cognitive abilities in humans and selectively affected when homocysteine increases. The aim was to evaluate the potential protective role of folic acid in the maintenance of biochemical markers related to the methionine cycle, as well as the integrity of the hippocampus as part of the brain in aged rats. Male Sprague–Dawley rats (18 months old) were assigned to four different folic acid groups (0 mg FA/kg diet, deficient; 2 mg FA/kg diet, control; 8 mg FA/kg diet, moderate supplementation; 40 mg FA/kg diet, extra supplementation) for 30 days. We evaluated several parameters related to the methionine cycle. In addition, hippocampus areas were immunostained for specific neuronal markers and astrocytes. Serum folate levels increased according to FA dietary level (p

Folic acid (FA) is essential for numerous bodily functions. Its decrease during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations in the progeny. The relationship between FA deficiency and the appearance of cleft palate (CP) is controversial, and little information exists on a possible effect of FA on palate development. We investigated the effect of a 2–8 weeks’ induced FA deficiency in female mice on the development of CP in their progeny as well as the mechanisms leading to palatal fusion, i.e. cell proliferation, cell death, and palatal-shelf adhesion and fusion. We showed that an 8 weeks’ maternal FA deficiency caused complete CP in the fetuses although a 2 weeks’ maternal FA deficiency was enough to alter all the mechanisms analyzed. Since transforming growth factor-β3 (TGF-β3) is crucial for palatal fusion and since most of the mechanisms impaired by FA deficiency were also observed in the palates of Tgf-β3null mutant mice, we investigated the presence of TGF-β3 mRNA, its protein and phospho-SMAD2 in FA-deficient (FAD) mouse palates. Our results evidenced a large reduction in Tgf-β3 expression in palates of embryos of dams fed an FAD diet for 8 weeks; Tgf-β3 expression was less reduced in palates of embryos of dams fed an FAD diet for 2 weeks. Addition of TGF-β3 to palatal-shelf cultures of embryos of dams fed an FAD diet for 2 weeks normalized all the altered mechanisms. Thus, an insufficient folate status may be a risk factor for the development of CP in mice, and exogenous TGF-β3 compensates this deficit in vitro.

Under a Creative Commons license., Omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) are essential nutrients well-known for their beneficial effects, among others on cognitive development and maintenance, inflammation and oxidative stress. Previous studies have shown an inverse association between high plasma levels of PUFAs and age-related hearing loss, and the relationship between low serum folate and elevated plasma homocysteine levels and hearing loss. Therefore, we used C57BL/6J mice and long-term omega-3 supplementation to evaluate the impact on hearing by analyzing their auditory brainstem response (ABR) and distortion product otoacustic emissions (DPOAE) thresholds. The omega-3 group showed significantly lower ABR hearing thresholds (∼25 dB SPL) and higher DPOAE amplitudes in mid-high frequencies, when compared to the control group. These changes did not correlate with alterations between groups in plasma homocysteine or serum folate levels as measured by HPLC and a microbiological method, respectively. Ageing in the control group was associated with imbalanced cytokine expression toward increased pro-inflammatory cytokines as determined by RT-qPCR; these changes were prevented by omega-3 supplementation. Genes involved in homocysteine metabolism showed decreased expression during ageing of control animals, and only alterations in Bhmt and Cbs were significantly prevented by omega-3 feeding. Western blotting showed that omega-3 supplementation precluded the CBS protein increase detected in 10 month-old controls, but also produced an increase in BHMT protein levels. Altogether, the results obtained suggest a long term protective role of omega-3 supplementation on cochlear metabolism and progression of hearing loss., R.M.V. is a fellow of the JAE-CSIC predoctoral program, and N.V. is supported by FP7-AFHELO. The authors wish to thank the Genomics and Non-invasive Neurofunctional Evaluation facilities (IIBM, CSIC-UAM) for their technical support. This work was supported by grants of the Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (SAF2011-24391 and SAF2014-53979-R to I.V.N.; BFU2009-08977 to M.A.P.), the European Union (FP7-AFHELO and TARGEAR to I.V.N.) and Puleva-LACTALIS (to I.V.N., G.V.M. and M.A.P.).

Nutritional imbalance is emerging as a causative factor of hearing loss. Epidemiologic studies have linked hearing loss to elevated plasma total homocysteine (tHcy) and folate deficiency, and have shown that folate supplementation lowers tHcy levels potentially ameliorating age-related hearing loss. The purpose of this study was to address the impact of folate deficiency on hearing loss and to examine the underlying mechanisms. For this purpose, 2-mo-old C57BL/6J mice (Animalia Chordata Mus musculus) were randomly divided into 2 groups (n = 65 each) that were fed folate-deficient (FD) or standard diets for 8 wk. HPLC analysis demonstrated a 7-fold decline in serum folate and a 3-fold increase in tHcy levels. FD mice exhibited severe hearing loss measured by auditory brainstem recordings and TUNEL-positive-apoptotic cochlear cells. RT-quantitative PCR and Western blotting showed reduced levels of enzymes catalyzing homocysteine (Hcy) production and recycling, together with a 30% increase in protein homocysteinylation. Redox stress was demonstrated by decreased expression of catalase, glutathione peroxidase 4, and glutathione synthetase genes, increased levels of manganese superoxide dismutase, and NADPH oxidase-complex adaptor cytochrome b-245, α-polypeptide (p22phox) proteins, and elevated concentrations of glutathione species. Altogether, our findings demonstrate, for the first time, that the relationship between hyperhomocysteinemia induced by folate deficiency and premature hearing loss involves impairment of cochlear Hcy metabolism and associated oxidative stress., R.M.-V. is supported by a fellowship from the JAE-CSIC predoctoral program. This work was supported by grants from the Ministerio de Ciencia e Innovación (BFU2009-08977 to M.A.P., SAF2011-24391 to I.V.-N., and PS09/01762 to C.M.-A.), the European Union (FP7-AFHELO and TARGEAR to I.V.-N.), U.S. National Institutes of Health National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases (Grant DK056350 to S.H.Z.), and Puleva BioFoods (to I.V.-N., G.V.-M., and M.A.P.).

[Aims]: The discovery of methionine metabolism enzymes in the cell nucleus, together with their association with key nuclear processes, suggested a putative relationship between alterations in their subcellular distribution and disease. [Results]: Using the rat model of D-galactosamine intoxication severe changes in hepatic steady-state mRNA levels were found; the largest decreases corresponded to enzymes exhibiting the highest expression in normal tissue. Cytoplasmic protein levels, activities and metabolite concentrations suffered more moderate changes following a similar trend. Interestingly, galactosamine-treatment induced hepatic nuclear accumulation of MATα1 and S-adenosylhomocysteine hydrolase tetramers, their active assemblies. In fact, galactosamine-treated livers showed enhanced nuclear methionine adenosyltransferase activity. Acetaminophen intoxication mimicked most galactosamine effects on hepatic MATα1, including accumulation of nuclear tetramers. H35 cells overexpressing tagged-MATα1 reproduced the subcellular distribution observed in liver, and the changes induced by galactosamine and acetaminophen that were also observed upon glutathione depletion by buthionine sulfoximine. The H35 nuclear accumulation of tagged-MATα1 induced by these agents correlated with decreased GSH/GSSG ratios and was prevented by N-acetylcysteine and glutathione ethyl ester. However, the changes in epigenetic modifications associated with tagged-MATα1 nuclear accumulation were only prevented by N-acetylcysteine in galactosamine-treated cells. [Innovation]: Cytoplasmic and nuclear changes in proteins regulating the methylation index follow opposite trends in acute liver injury, their nuclear accumulation showing potential as disease marker. [Conclusion]: Altogether these results demonstrate galactosamine- and acetaminophen-induced nuclear accumulation of methionine metabolism enzymes as active oligomers and unveil the implication of redox-dependent mechanisms in the control of MATα1 subcellular distribution., This work was supported by grants of the Ministerio de Economía y Competitividad (BFU2005-00050, BFU2008- 00666, and BFU2009-08977 to M.A.P.; SAF2009-11642 and SAF2012-36519 to D.P.-S.; and PS09/01762 to J.P.-M.) and the Instituto de Salud Carlos III (RCMN C03/08 and PI05/0563 to M.A.P.; RD07/0064/0007 and RD12/0013/0008 to D.P.-S.). M.D. was supported by fellowships of RCMN C03/08 and PI05/0563 and M.P. by BFU2009-08977.

The chapter reviews and updates the role of the different types of sugar along the life cycle, mainly during infancy and aging, but also for physiological situations such as pregnancy and breastfeeding. Moreover, several examples from infancy to the elderly illustrate that a moderate consumption may be considered as adequate within the context of a healthy diet and active life. In addition, the importance of sugar to provide palatability to the diet is also revised and attempted. The consequences of low sugar consumption (e.g. glucose) are also evaluated, but also the potential hazard effects of high and prolonged intakes at the different ages or pregnancy, as well as its association with risk factors for chronic diseases. Finally, recommendations are given for adequate consumption to serve as tools for a benefit/risk evaluation at individual level and for public health strategies.Se revisa la importancia que tienen los diferentes tipos de azúcares consumidos a través de la dieta y en diferentes fuentes alimentarias en las etapas de la vida y situaciones fisiológicas especiales, y como el consumo moderado de azúcar es compatible con una dieta equilibrada y estilos de vida activos. Se describe también su función en el disfrute y placer de comer, como uno de los pilares básicos también de una alimentación equilibrada. Al mismo tiempo, se evalúan los riesgos del consumo muy insuficiente, principalmente en lo referido a un bajo aporte de glucosa en etapas críticas de la vida, así como las potenciales consecuencias negativas sobre el estado de salud en el ciclo vital cuando la ingesta es excesiva, y la asociación con factores de riesgo en enfermedades crónico- degenerativas, o con complicaciones en el embarazo. Finalmente, se aportan recomendaciones para un correcto consumo desde el punto de vista nutricional que constituyan, finalmente, herramientas válidas para una evaluación beneficio/riesgo a nivel individual o desde el punto de vista de la salud pública.

Health inequality is the difference in incidence, prevalence, mortality, volume of diseases and other adverse sanitary conditions that exist between groups of specific populations.To analyze the possible nutritional inequalities between two educational centers of Madrid to promote healthy habits, to anticipate the obesity and the diseases associated in the children population.Observational and transverse study on a sample of 118 students (14 years old/3ºESO) of two educational centers of different socioeconomic level. They underwent a survey on lifestyle, anthropometric examinations and measurement of blood pressure and physical activity.In both centers normal weight prevails in both sexes without differences as for the percentage of pupils that are overweight. Major obesity is registered in the public school more than in the private school. The correlation stands out between the percentiles body mass index (BMI) and the blood pressure (BP) (to major BMI, major B.P). The food pattern is similarly independent from the socioeconomic stratum. The fifth part of the pupils (principally women) does not practice any type of physical activity in their free time and they dedicate almost 2 daily hours to sedentary activities.As a whole, the two educational centers are in the average weight range, even though a tendency has been found in the public school that there is double the rate of obesity. These results can be attributed to the small sample size or that the sociocultural inequality to nutritional level is not so accentuated in the city of Madrid. Prevention and promotion of healthy habits is the way of combating against overweight, juvenile obesity, cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular diseases in the adult age.

Se revisa la importancia que tienen los diferentes tipos de azúcares consumidos a través de la dieta y en diferentes fuentes alimentarias en las etapas de la vida y situaciones fisiológicas especiales, y como el consumo moderado de azúcar es compatible con una dieta equilibrada y estilos de vida activos. Se describe también su función en el disfrute y placer de comer, como uno de los pilares básicos también de una alimentación equilibrada. Al mismo tiempo, se evalúan los riesgos del consumo muy insuficiente, principalmente en lo referido a un bajo aporte de glucosa en etapas críticas de la vida, así como las potenciales consecuencias negativas sobre el estado de salud en el ciclo vital cuando la ingesta es excesiva, y la asociación con factores de riesgo en enfermedades crónico-degenerativas, o con complicaciones en el embarazo. Finalmente, se aportan recomendaciones para un correcto consumo desde el punto de vista nutricional que constituyan, finalmente, herramientas válidas para una evaluación beneficio/riesgo a nivel individual o desde el punto de vista de la salud pública.

Folic acid (FA) is essential for numerous bodily functions. Its decrease during pregnancy has been associated with an increased risk of congenital malformations in the progeny. The relationship between FA deficiency and the appearance of cleft palate (CP) is controversial, and little information exists on a possible effect of FA on palate development. We investigated the effect of a 2-8 weeks' induced FA deficiency in female mice on the development of CP in their progeny as well as the mechanisms leading to palatal fusion, i.e. cell proliferation, cell death, and palatal-shelf adhesion and fusion. We showed that an 8 weeks' maternal FA deficiency caused complete CP in the fetuses although a 2 weeks' maternal FA deficiency was enough to alter all the mechanisms analyzed. Since transforming growth factor-β(3) (TGF-β(3)) is crucial for palatal fusion and since most of the mechanisms impaired by FA deficiency were also observed in the palates of Tgf-β(3)null mutant mice, we investigated the presence of TGF-β(3) mRNA, its protein and phospho-SMAD2 in FA-deficient (FAD) mouse palates. Our results evidenced a large reduction in Tgf-β(3) expression in palates of embryos of dams fed an FAD diet for 8 weeks; Tgf-β(3) expression was less reduced in palates of embryos of dams fed an FAD diet for 2 weeks. Addition of TGF-β(3) to palatal-shelf cultures of embryos of dams fed an FAD diet for 2 weeks normalized all the altered mechanisms. Thus, an insufficient folate status may be a risk factor for the development of CP in mice, and exogenous TGF-β(3) compensates this deficit in vitro.