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Background: Food insecurity has been shown to be associated with poor dietary quality and eating behaviors, which can have both short- and long-term adverse health outcomes in children. The objective was to investigate the food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors in a convenience sample of youth participating in the Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment LaunchPad programming in downtown Toronto, Ontario. Methods: Youth aged 9–18 years were recruited to participate in the study. Food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors were collected using parent- or self-reported questionnaires online. Results: Sixty-six youth (mean ± SD: 11.7 ± 1.9 years) participated in the study. The prevalence of household food insecurity was higher than the national average with at least one child under 18 years of age (27.7% vs. 16.2%). Dietary intake patterns were similar to the national trends with low intakes of fiber, inadequate intakes of calcium and vitamin D; and excess intakes of sodium, added sugar, and saturated fat. Despite a low prevalence of poor eating habits, distracted eating was the most frequently reported poor eating habit. Conclusions: Although youth were at high risk for experiencing household food insecurity, inadequate dietary intake patterns were similar to the national trends. Our findings can be used to develop future programming to facilitate healthy dietary behaviors appropriate for the target community. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The endocannabinoid system and its extension, the endocannabinoidome (eCBome), are involved in numerous biological processes, notably energy homeostasis, across virtually all tissues. While the circulating eCBome mediator profile is associated with dietary intakes and metabolic status, an important knowledge gap resides in the identification of the precise determinants of these mediators in the gut lumen. We aimed at establishing the profile of eCBome mediators in human feces and investigating their association with circulating eCBome mediators, dietary intakes, metabolic status and gut microbiota composition., Methods: N-acyl-ethanolamines (NAEs) and 2-monoacyl-glycerols (2-MAGs) were profiled by LC-MS/MS in plasma and feces of a cross-sectional cohort (n = 195) and a short term dietary intervention trials (n = 21) with comprehensive dietary intakes and gut microbiota measures., Results: Six NAEs and seven 2-MAGs were identified in fecal samples, but some, especially omega-3 derived mediators, were undetectable in the majority of samples. Fecal NAEs, and to a lower extent 2-MAGs, were positively albeit weakly correlated with the circulating levels of eCBome mediators. Fecal 2-AG, PEA and DHEA levels were positively associated with visceral adiposity and with some parameters of the metabolic profile. Dietary intakes of foods rich in fibers were associated with lower fecal levels of several eCBome mediators, while intakes of unsaturated fatty acids were associated with fecal 2-OG and 2-LG. Interestingly, gut microbiota diversity and composition were a strong correlate of the fecal eCBome profile., Conclusion: The fecal eCBome profile is associated with gut microbiota composition and dietary intakes, more than with the circulating profile. These results strengthen the hypothesis of an interrelation between the gut microbiome and eCBome signaling involved in the regulation of numerous host biological processes., (© The Author(s) 2024. Published by Oxford University Press on behalf of the Endocrine Society.)

BackgroundFood energy under-reporting is differentially distributed among populations. Currently, little is known about how mental health state may affect energy-adjusted nutrient intakes among food energy under-reporters.MethodsStratified analysis of energy-adjusted nutrient intake by mental health (poor vs. good) and age/sex was conducted using data from Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS) respondents (14–70 years; n = 8,233) who were deemed as under-reporters based on Goldberg's cutoffs.ResultsMost were experiencing good mental health (95.2%). Among those reporting poor mental health, significantly lower energy-adjusted nutrient intakes tended to be found for fiber, protein, vitamins A, B2, B3, B6, B9, B12, C, and D, and calcium, potassium, and zinc (probability measures (p) < 0.05). For women (51–70 years), all micronutrient intakes, except iron, were significantly lower among those reporting poor mental health (p < 0.05). For men (31–50 years), B vitamin and most mineral intakes, except sodium, were significantly lower among those reporting poor mental health (p < 0.05). Among women (31–50 years) who reported poor mental health, higher energy-adjusted intakes were reported for vitamin B9 and phosphorus (p < 0.05).ConclusionsAmong food energy under-reporters, poor mental health tends to lower the report of specific energy-adjusted nutrient intakes that include ones critical for mental health. Future research is needed to discern if these differences may be attributed to deviations in the accurate reports of food intakes, measurement errors, or mental health states.

BackgroundThe Young Lives longitudinal study switched to remote data collection methods including the adaptation of dietary intake assessment to online modes due to the physical contact restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic. This study aimed to describe the adaptation process and validation of an online quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) for Peruvian young adults.MethodsA previously validated face-to-face FFQ for the adult Peruvian population was adapted to be administered through an online self-administered questionnaire using a multi-stage process. Questionnaire development was informed by experts’ opinions and pilot surveys. FFQ validity was assessed by estimating misreporting of energy intake (EI) using the McCrory method, and the FFQ reliability with Cronbach alpha. Logistic regressions were used to examine associations of misreporting with sociodemographic, body mass index (BMI), and physical activity covariates.ResultsThe FFQ was completed by 426 Peruvian young adults from urban and rural areas, among whom 31% were classified as misreporters, with most of them (16.2%) overreporting daily EI. Men had a lower risk of under-reporting and a higher risk of over-reporting (OR = 0.28 and 1.89). Participants without a higher education degree had a lower risk of under-reporting and a higher risk of over-reporting (OR = 2.18 and 0.36, respectively). No major difference in misreporting was found across age groups, areas, studying as the main activity, being physically active or sedentary, or BMI. Results showed good internal reliability for the overall FFQ (Cronbach alpha = 0.82).ConclusionMisreporting of EI was mostly explained by education level and sex across participants. Other sociodemographic characteristics, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and BMI did not explain the differences in EI misreporting. The adapted online FFQ proved to be reliable and valid for assessing dietary intakes among Peruvian young adults during the COVID pandemic. Further studies should aim at using and validating innovative dietary intake data collection methods, such as those described, for informing public health policies targeting malnutrition in different contexts after the COVID-19 pandemic.

Objective: Understanding the socio-economic inequalities in dietary intake is crucial when addressing the socio-economic gradient in obesity rates and non-communicable diseases. We aimed to systematically assess the association between socio-economic position (SEP) and dietary intake in Chile. Design: We searched for peer-reviewed and grey literature from inception until 31 December 2019 in PubMed, Scopus, PsycINFO, Web of Sciences and LILACS databases. Observational studies published in English and Spanish, reporting the comparison of at least one dietary factor between at least two groups of different SEP in the general Chilean population, were selected. Two researchers independently conducted data searches, screening and extraction and assessed study quality using an adaptation of the Newcastle Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale. Results: Twenty-one articles (from eighteen studies) were included. Study quality was considered low, medium and high for 24, 52 and 24 % of articles, respectively. Moderate-to-large associations indicated lower intake of fruit and vegetables, dairy products and fish/seafood and higher pulses consumption among adults of lower SEP. Variable evidence of association was found for energy intake and macronutrients, in both children and adults. Conclusions: Our findings highlight some socio-economic inequalities in diets in Chile, evidencing an overall less healthy food consumption among the lower SEP groups. New policies to reduce these inequalities should tackle the unequal distribution of factors affecting healthy eating among the lower SEP groups. These findings also provide important insights for developing strategies to reduce dietary inequalities in Chile and other countries that have undergone similar nutritional transitions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: There is a need to understand autosomal dominant polycystic kidney disease (ADPKD) patients' dietary habits since dietary interventions may have potential effects on ADPKD. In this study, we aimed to analyze the relationship between dietary nutrient intake and total kidney volume (TKV). Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on 54 ADPKD patients recruited from the Nephrology outpatient clinic between June and July 2014. TKV was determined by magnetic-resonance imaging and general characteristics, biochemical and urinary parameters were determined. The nutrient intakes of patients were calculated using the three-day dietary records obtained on three consecutive days. Results: The total kidney-volume median was found to be 1407 mL. Patients' total dietary energy and protein intakes were 25.8±9.4 kcal/kg, 0.9±0.3 g/kg, respectively. The percentage of carbohydrates, protein, and fat in energy was 49±7%, 14±3%, 37±7%, respectively. The mean intakes of thiamin, riboflavin, B6, calcium, magnesium, and zinc were sufficient, the mean dietary potassium intake was insufficient; and sodium intake was excessive in both sexes. In females, there was a negative but weak correlation between dietary vitamin C intake and TKV. In males, a negative but weak correlation was found between TKV and dietary intake of fiber, water, vitamin B6, vitamin K, magnesium, and iron. Conclusions: Dietary micronutrient intake may affect TKV according to sex. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Carotenoids and vitamin A are nutrients crucial to infants' development. To date, there is limited data on their availability in breastmilk and the associated dietary factors, especially in Hong Kong, where people follow a westernized Chinese diet. This study determined the selected breastmilk's carotenoid and vitamin A (retinol) contents by ultraperformance liquid chromatography with photodiode detection (UPLC-PDA) and the dietary intakes by three-day food records in 87 Hong Kong lactating mothers, who were grouped into tertiles based on their daily carotenoid intake. Low vitamin A intake (530.2 ± 34.2 µg RAE/day) and breastmilk retinol level (1013.4 ± 36.8 nmol/L) were reported in our participants, suggesting a poor vitamin A status of the lactating participants having relatively higher socioeconomic status in Hong Kong. Mothers in the highest tertile (T3) had higher breastmilk carotenoid levels than those in the lowest (T1) (p < 0.05). There were significant associations between maternal carotenoid intakes and breastmilk lutein levels in the linear regression models (p < 0.05) regardless of dietary supplement intake. Furthermore, maternal dark green vegetable intakes were associated with breastmilk retinol, lutein, and β-carotene levels. These findings can serve as dietary references for lactating mothers to enhance breastmilk carotenoid and vitamin A contents for the benefits of child growth and development. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A comprehensive assessment of the dietary status of university students in Indonesia is lacking. Hence, this study aims to assess students' dietary habits, status, and the nutritive value of meals offered at university canteens. This was a cross-sectional study based on the dietary habits of 333 students, 26 of whom were interviewed for the dietary survey. The nutritional value of canteen menus used by nearly half of the students (44%) was also examined. Most menus lacked macro and micronutrients (i.e., calcium, 15.5%) and were high in salt (181.5%). BMIs showed malnutrition among students (38.5%). The protein, fat, carbohydrate (PFC) ratio showed a high proportion of fat (32.4%) in the diets of female students. The level of salt intake (96.2%) was above the Indonesian recommended dietary allowance (RDA). Most students had unhealthy dietary patterns, including a high consumption of sweet beverages and instant noodles and a low intake of fruits, vegetables, animal protein, and milk. The lack of nutrients in canteen menus might lead to a nutrient deficiency among the students, which underlines the important role of canteens in the students' dietary intake. Optimizing the nutritional profile of menus, labeling based on nutrient profiling, and promoting nutrition education should be addressed to improve students' diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background The release of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), Nutrition 2015 provides a unique opportunity since CCHS 2004 to investigate food choices of Canadian children and adolescents at a national level. Objective This study examined the quality and quantity of food choices of children ages 2–8 years and adolescents 9–18 years, using Health Canada’s Surveillance Tool Tier System 2014. It is hypothesized that Canadian children and adolescents are consuming diets poor in nutritional quality based on evidence from the last national nutrition survey in 2004. Design Intakes from CCHS 2015, 24-h dietary recall were categorized into Health Canada’s Tiers 1–4, based on CNF/CFG classification system and thresholds for nutrients to limit i.e., total fat, saturated fats, sugars, and sodium to assess quality of food choices. Additionally, dietary intakes were grouped according to Canada’s 2007 food guide servings as the 2019 food guide was not available. Results Majority of foods reported by children 2–18 years were categorized as Tier 2 and Tier 3 foods. Investigation of energy contributions from the Tier 4 and “other foods” represented 21–25% of daily calorie intake and of these foods, high fat and/or high sugar foods contributed majority of daily calories to these categories. Conclusions This study showed Canadian children 2–18 years are consuming diets high in nutrients recommended to limit. Evidence from this study provides a unique opportunity to improve the nutritional quality of foods, and the food choices of children.

BackgroundSeveral studies about humans and animals have separately examined the effects of prenatal nutrition and stress on fetal development, pregnancy, and birth outcomes, and subsequent child health and disease risk. Although substantial evidence from non-pregnant literature supports the presence of bidirectional interactions between nutrition and stress at various psychological, behavioral, and physiological levels, such interaction effects have not yet been systematically examined in the context of pregnancy.SummaryThis paper discusses the multifaceted and multilevel relationship between nutrition and stress. It then reviews the currently available observational and experimental evidence in animals and humans regarding the interplay between maternal psychosocial stress, dietary intake, and nutritional state during pregnancy, and implications for maternal and child health-related outcomes. Key Messages: During pregnancy, maternal psychosocial stress, dietary behavior, and nutritional state likely regulate and counter-regulate one another. Emerging evidence suggests that omega-3 fatty acids may attenuate maternal psychosocial stress, and that high maternal pre-pregnancy body mass index exacerbates unhealthy dietary behaviors under high-stress conditions. Longitudinal studies are warranted in order to understand the interplay between prenatal psychosocial stress, diet, and stress- and nutrition-related biomarkers to obtain further insight and inform the development and design of future, more effective intervention trials for improved maternal and child health outcomes.

The purpose of this study was to examine the association between household food insecurity and dietary intake and nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among parents aged ≥18 years in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. The current cross-sectional study was carried out in 2021 among adults (mothers and fathers) aged ≥18 years. A total of 614 participants were selected from all Gaza Strip governorates using a cluster random sampling method. To assess the nutrition-related KAP, we employed the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations questionnaire (Modules 5, 6, 7, and 9). Data regarding household food security status, demographic and socioeconomic characteristics of the study participants, anthropometric measurements, and dietary intakes were obtained using standard questionnaires and methods. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. About 71.5% and 28.5% of the study participants were household food-insecured and household food-secured, respectively. Significant associations were found between participants from household food-secured and household food-insecured concerning several socio-demographic variables, anthropometric measures, intakes of energy, protein, carbohydrate, and calcium; nutrition-related knowledge and attitudes toward undernutrition and vitamin A deficiency; nutrition-related KAP of iron deficiency anemia; and nutrition-related attitudes and practices of food safety (P-values < 0.05 for all). In conclusion, the demographic and socioeconomic status, anthropometric measurements, and poor dietary intakes may be associated with high levels of household food insecurity, while having nutrition-related adequate KAP may be associated with low levels of household food insecurity among parents aged ≥18 years.

BackgroundThe present study aimed to determine the association of household food insecurity with dietary intakes and nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) among school-aged children.MethodsThis cross-sectional study was conducted among a representative sample of school-aged children. A total of 380 children and their parents were selected from all Gaza strip governorates, using a random sampling method. The demographic and socioeconomic characteristics; the Radimer/Cornell food security scale; two non-consecutive days of 24-h dietary recall; anthropometric measurements; and the Food and Agriculture Organization KAP-questionnaire (Module 3) were employed. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25.ResultsAbout 71.6% of school-aged children were household food-insecure, while 28.4% were household food-secure. Significant associations were found between living area, educational level, household monthly income, weight for age and BMI for age z-scores, underweight, malnutrition status, intakes of protein, iron, vitamin D, and zinc among household food-secure, and household food-insecure. After adjustment for confounding variables, having nutrition-related adequate KAP were associated with lower odds of being food-insecure household [OR = 0.519, 95% (CI = 0.320–0.841)], [OR = 0.510, 95% CI = (0.315–0.827)], and [OR = 0.466, 95% CI = (0.285–0.763), P < 0.05 for all], respectively.ConclusionsLow socioeconomic status, low anthropometric indices, poor dietary intakes may be associated with a high level of food-insecurity; while having nutrition-related adequate KAP may be protective against food-insecurity among school-aged children.

Background: Omentin is an adipokine with anti-inflammatory and insulin-sensitizing effects that can play a protective role against cardiovascular disease and diabetes. The aim was to systematically review and summarize the existing evidence on the association between overall dietary intake and omentin gene expression and circulation. Summary: A literature search was conducted in PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science up to September 2019. Of the 1,940 retrieved articles, 20 relevant studies were included, 6 of which were observational, 11 were clinical trials in humans, and 3 were animal studies. Four randomized controlled trials (RCTs) had a high risk of bias (RoB), 1 had “some concerns”, and 2 had a low RoB. Among the nonrandomized studies with comparators, 4 had a serious RoB and 2 had a moderate RoB. In the experimental animal studies with a moderate RoB, conflicting results for omentin serum concentration were found for high-fat and low-fat diets. A high-fat diet (HFD) was shown to reduce omentin gene expression in one animal study. In the observational studies, omentin serum concentration was reduced by Ramadan fasting and saturated fatty acid (SFA) intake, and an increase in omentin gene expression was observed with monounsaturated fatty acid (MUFA) intake. There was no association of dietary inflammatory index (DII), macronutrient intake, or total calorie intake with omentin plasma concentrations. In the human interventional studies, omentin plasma concentration increased with a long-term low-calorie, low-fat diet (LFD), and no change was seen with a HFD or a short-term low-calorie diet (LCD). Key Messages: It seems that a long-term diet with a lower fat content and a balanced distribution of fatty acids, i.e., a higher MUFA and lower SFA intake, may effectively increase omentin plasma concentration, possibly via improved insulin resistance and reduced inflammation, but more research is needed to confirm or refute this.

Recommendations suggest limiting the intake of free sugar to under 10% or 5% of calories in order to reduce the risk of negative health outcomes. This study aimed to examine Canadian free sugar intake and model how intakes change following the implementation of a systematic reformulation of foods and beverages to be 20% lower in free sugar. Additionally, this study aimed to examine how calorie intake might be impacted by this reformulation scenario. Canadians’ free sugar and calorie intakes were determined using free sugar and calorie data from the Food Label Information Program (FLIP) 2017, a Canadian branded food composition database, and applied to foods reported as being consumed in Canadian Community Health Survey—Nutrition (CCHS-Nutrition) 2015. A “counterfactual” scenario was modelled to examine changes in intake following the reformulation of foods to be 20% lower in free sugar. The overall mean free sugar intake was 12.1% of calories and was reduced to align with the intake recommendations at 10% of calories in the “counterfactual” scenario (p < 0.05). Calorie intake was reduced by 3.2% (60 calories) in the “counterfactual” scenario (p < 0.05). Although the overall average intake was aligned with the recommendations, many age/sex groups exceeded the recommended intake, even in the “counterfactual” scenario. The results demonstrate a need to reduce the intake of free sugar in Canada to align with dietary recommendations, potentially through reformulation. The results can be used to inform future program and policy decisions related to achieving the recommended intake levels of free sugar in Canada.

The present paper outlines current issues in the nutritional care of women during pregnancy and potential resources to address them. Globally, overnutrition, undernutrition and nutritional imbalances are widespread among women of reproductive age; increasing the risk of pregnancy complications and non-communicable diseases in both mothers and their children. Most women do not meet dietary guidelines for pregnancy. The World Health Organisation (WHO) recommends nutrition and weight counselling during pregnancy for all women. However, clinical practices focusing on nutrition vary and there is no consensus on which outcomes are most important for pregnancy nutrition interventions, with little consideration for the 'patient voice'. The International Federation of Gynaecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) nutrition checklist is a clinical practice tool that is available for healthcare professionals that will address this issue. The pregnancy nutrition core outcome set will also support advancement of antenatal nutrition by identifying the most critical nutrition-related outcomes from the perspective of healthcare professionals, researchers and women with experience of pregnancy. While poor nutrition can result in adverse outcomes across women of all weight categories, those with obesity may require specialist care to reduce their risk. Obesity is a chronic, progressive, relapsing disease that has high individual variability in its prognosis. The use of obesity staging systems, which consider mental, physical and functional health, can stratify individuals into risk categories and aid in treatment prioritisation in pregnancy. As the prevalence of obesity continues to rise, an obesity staging approach may support clinicians, especially those in limited resource settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article focuses on refining World Cancer Research Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research cancer prevention recommendations for red and processed meat intake insights from Alberta's Tomorrow Project cohort.

The present study aimed to determine the households' food insecurity and their association with dietary intakes, nutrition-related knowledge, attitudes and practices (KAP) among under-five children in the Gaza Strip, Palestine. This cross-sectional study was conducted in 2021 among a representative sample of under-five children. A total of 350 children and their proxy were selected from all Gaza strip governorates, using a cluster random sampling method. The Radimer/Cornell food-security scale was used. A 24-h dietary recall was employed for dietary intakes assessment. Nutrition-related KAP for feeding under-five children, anthropometric measurements, and demographic-socioeconomic characteristics were obtained with an interview-based questionnaire. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25. The children from food-insecure households had a high prevalence of moderate underweight (30.4%), stunting (32.8%), wasting (9.6%), and acute undernutrition (30.4%). Between food-insecure and food-secure groups there were significant differences in weight, height/length, mid-upper arm circumference, weight-for-age and mid-upper arm circumference z-scores, underweight, acute undernutrition, intakes of protein, fat, vitamin D, zinc, continued breastfeeding, having nutrition-related adequate knowledge, having nutrition-related positive attitudes, and achieved minimum dietary diversity score (P < 0.05 for all). Additionally, about (56.0%) food-insecure households have inadequate nutrition-related knowledge, (77.6%) have nutrition-related negative attitudes, and (95.2%) did not achieve a minimum dietary diversity score. In conclusion, the children from food-insecure households had a high prevalence of moderate underweight, stunting, wasting, and acute undernutrition. Moreover, low economic status, poor dietary intakes, low levels of nutrition-related KAP, and lack of dietary diversity could contribute to the high levels of food insecurity among under-five children.

Background: Recent studies showed that eating behaviors such as disinhibition, emotional and external eating, and snacking mediate genetic susceptibility to obesity. It remains unknown if diet quality and intake of specific food groups also mediate the genetic susceptibility to obesity.Objective: This study aimed to assess if diet quality and intakes of specific food groups mediate the association between a polygenic risk score (PRS) for BMI and BMI and waist circumference (WC). We hypothesized that poor diet quality, high intakes of energy-dense food groups, and low intakes of nutrient-dense food groups mediate the genetic susceptibility to obesity.Methods: This cross-sectional study included 750 participants (56.3% women, aged 41.5 ± 14.9 y, BMI 27.8 ± 7.5 kg/m2) from the Quebec Family Study. A PRSBMI based on >500,000 genetic variants was calculated using LDpred2. Dietary intakes were assessed with a 3-d food record from which a diet quality score (i.e. Nutrient Rich Food Index 6.3) and food groups were derived. Mediation analyses were conducted using a regression-based and bootstrapping approach.Results: The PRSBMI explained 25.7% and 19.8% of the variance in BMI and WC, respectively. The association between PRSBMI and BMI was partly mediated by poor diet quality (β = 0.33 ± 0.12; 95% CI: 0.13, 0.60), high intakes of fat and high-fat foods (β = 0.46 ± 0.16; 95% CI: 0.19, 0.79) and sugar-sweetened beverages (β = 0.25 ± 0.14; 95% CI: 0.05, 0.60), and low intakes of vegetables (β = 0.15 ± 0.08; 95% CI: 0.03, 0.32), fruits (β = 0.37 ± 0.12; 95% CI: 0.17, 0.64), and dairy products (β = 0.17 ± 0.09; 95% CI: 0.02, 0.37). The same trends were observed for WC.Conclusions: The genetic susceptibility to obesity was partly mediated by poor diet quality and intakes of specific food groups. These results suggest that improvement in diet quality may reduce obesity risk among individuals with high genetic susceptibility and emphasize the need to intervene on diet quality among these individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Previous studies showed an association between dietary intakes and psychological disorders. This study aimed to assess the association between dietary intakes and psychiatric disorders in Iran. Methods In this cross sectional research, the data on 9965 adults were extracted from enrollment phase of Yazd Health Study (YaHS); a population-based cohort study on Iranian adults which was conducted during 2014 to 2016. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, tobacco use, history of chronic disease, and dietary assessment were collected using a validated researcher-made questionnaire. Moreover, anthropometric measurement was conducted. Psychological and physical activity assessments were also performed by depression, anxiety and stress scale questionnaire (DASS 21 items) and the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) respectively. Finally, multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate relation between dietary intakes and psychological disorders. Results After adjusting for the confounders, egg (depression: OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.52–0.98; anxiety: OR = 0.72, CI: 0.55–0.94), fruits (depression: OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.43–0.82; anxiety: OR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.53–0.91), milk (depression: OR = 0.72, CI: 0.58–0.89; anxiety: OR = 0.73, CI: 0.61–0.87), and yogurt (depression: OR = 0.67, CI: 0.47–0.97; anxiety: OR = 0.54, CI: 0.4–0.73) were found to have protective effects on depression and anxiety. Higher fish consumption was associated with greater depression odds (OR = 1.54, CI: 1.18–2.04). Vegetables’ intake had an inverse relationship with anxiety (OR = 0.74, CI = 0.58–0.93) and stress (OR = 0.59, CI: 0.42–0.82). Fruits (OR = 0.6, CI: 0.43–0.85) and milk consumption (OR: 0.61, CI: 0.47–0.77) were found to have protective effects on stress. Conclusions Egg, fruits, milk, yogurt, and vegetables’ consumption had an inverse relationship with psychiatric disorders; whereas, higher fish intake was associated with higher depression chance. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings.

Abstract Background Little is known about sex-based dietary differences in middle-income countries, particularly those undergoing the nutrition transition. This study aims at examining sex disparities in energy and macronutrients’ intakes, food consumption patterns, and micronutrients’ adequacy in Lebanon, while adopting a life course approach. Methods Data were derived from a national cross-sectional survey conducted in Lebanon in 2008/2009. The study sample consisted of 3636 subjects: 956 children and adolescents aged 6–19.9 years; 2239 adults aged 20–59.9 years and 441 older adults aged above 60 years. At the households, trained nutritionists conducted face-to-face interviews with participants to complete a sociodemographic questionnaire and one 24-h diet recall. Food items were categorized into 25 food groups. The Nutritionist Pro software was used for the analysis of dietary intake data and the estimation of energy, macronutrients’, and micronutrients’ intakes. Results In all age groups, males had significantly higher energy intakes, while females had significantly higher fiber intakes. In addition, in adolescents aged 12–19.9 years, females had higher fat intakes as compared to males (37.02 ± 0.6% vs 35.03 ± 0.61%), and in adults aged 20–59.9 years, females had significantly higher total fat (37.73 ± 0.33% vs 36.45 ± 0.38%) and saturated fat intakes (11.24 ± 0.15% vs 10.45 ± 0.18%). These differences in macronutrient intakes were not observed in younger children nor in older adults. Sex-based differences in food groups’ intakes were also observed: men and boys had significantly higher intakes of red and processed meat, bread, fast food, soft drinks, and alcohol, while girls and women had higher intakes of fruits, vegetables, milk, and sweets. In all age groups, females had lower micronutrient intakes compared to males, including calcium, iron, and zinc. Conclusions This study identified sex-specific priorities that ought to be tackled by context-specific interventions to promote healthier diets in Lebanon. The fact that sex-based differences in nutrient intakes and food consumption patterns were the most noticeable in the adolescent and adult years, hence women’s reproductive years call for concerted efforts to improve nutrition for women and girls as this would lay the foundation not only for their future education, productivity, and economic empowerment, but also for the health of future generations.

Selenium is an essential trace element in humans and animals and its role in selenoprotein and enzyme antioxidant activity is well documented. Food is the principal source of selenium, and it is important that selenium status in the body is adequately maintained for physiological functions. There has been increasing attention on the role of selenium in mitigating the toxic effects of mercury exposure from dietary intake in humans. In contrast, mercury is a neurotoxin, and its continuous exposure can cause adverse health effects in humans. The interactions of selenium and mercury are multi-factorial and involve complex binding mechanisms between these elements at a molecular level. Further insights and understanding in this area may help to evaluate the health implications of dietary mercury exposure and selenium status. This review aims to summarise current information on the interplay of the interactions between selenium and mercury in the body and the protective effect of selenium on at-risk groups in a population who may experience long-term mercury exposure.

Background/aims: The current meta-analysis aimed to examine the heritability and familial resemblance of dietary intakes, including energy and macronutrients in both twin and family-based studies., Methods: The online literature databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched comprehensively until 2023 to identify the relevant studies. The heritability index in family studies was h 2 and the heritability indices for twin studies were h 2 , A 2 , and E 2 . Three weighted methods were used to calculate the mean and SE of heritability dietary intakes., Results: Eighteen papers including 8 studies on familial population and 12 for twin population studies were included in the present meta-analysis. The heritability of dietary intakes in twin studies (range of pooled estimated h 2 , A 2, and E 2 was 30-55%, 14-42%, and 52-79%, respectively) was higher than family studies (range of pooled estimated h 2  = 16-39%). In family studies, the highest and lowest heritability for various nutrients was observed for the fat (%Kcal) (h 2 range:36-38%) and carbohydrate in g (h 2 range:16-18%), respectively. In twin studies, based on mean h 2 , the highest and lowest heritability for various nutrients was reported for the fat (%Kcal) (h 2 range:49-55%) and protein intake in g (h 2 range:30-35%), respectively. Also, based on the mean of A 2 , the highest and lowest heritability was observed for carbohydrates (% Kcal) (A 2 range:42-42%), and protein (% Kcal) (A 2 range:14-16%), respectively. Furthermore, in twin studies, the highest and lowest mean of E 2 was shown for saturated fats (E 2 range:74-79%) and energy intake (E 2 range:52-57%), respectively., Conclusion: Our analysis indicated that both environmental factors and genetics have noticeable contributions in determining the heritability of dietary intakes. Also, we observed higher heritability in twins compared to family studies., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest The authors report there are no competing interests to declare., (Copyright © 2024 European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.)

Diet plays a critical role in the development of obesity and obesity-related morbidities. Our study aimed to evaluate the dietary food groups, nutrient intakes and eating behaviors of metabolically healthy and unhealthy obesity phenotypes in an Asian cohort of children and adolescents. Participants (n = 52) were asked to record their diet using a 3-day food diary and intakes were analyzed using a nutrient software. Eating behavior was assessed using a validated questionnaire. Metabolically healthy obesity (MHO) or metabolically unhealthy obesity (MUO) were defined based on criteria of metabolic syndrome. Children/adolescents with MUO consumed fewer whole grains (median: 0.00 (interquartile range: 0.00–0.00 g) vs. 18.5 g (0.00–69.8 g)) and less polyunsaturated fat (6.26% kcal (5.17–7.45% kcal) vs. 6.92% kcal (5.85–9.02% kcal)), and had lower cognitive dietary restraint (15.0 (13.0–17.0) vs. 16.0 (14.0–19.0)) compared to children/adolescents with MHO. Deep fried food, fast food and processed convenience food were positively associated with both systolic (β: 2.84, 95%CI: 0.95–6.62) and diastolic blood pressure (β: 4.83, 95%CI: 0.61–9.04). Higher polyunsaturated fat intake (OR: 0.529, 95%CI: 0.284–0.986) and cognitive dietary restraint (OR: 0.681, 95%CI: 0.472–0.984) were associated with a lower risk of the MUO phenotype. A healthier diet composition and positive eating behavior may contribute to favorable metabolic outcomes in children and adolescents with obesity.

Background: Non-communicable diseases are important causes of morbidity and mortality throughout the world., Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study conducted in 10 Indian states using multi-stage random sampling procedures. Information was collected on socio-economic and demographic particulars, anthropometric measurements such as height, weight and waist circumference, fasting blood glucose and blood pressure was measured. One day 24-h dietary recall was done for foods and nutrient intakes. Bivariate and multivariate step-wise logistic regression analyses was done., Results: The prevalence of overweight/obesity among rural adults was 23.4 % (95 % CI: 22.9-23.9), while age adjusted prevalence of pre-diabetes was 8.4 % (95 % CI: 8.1-8.7) and diabetes was 6.8, (95 % CI 6.7-7.1), respectively. The prevalence of diabetes was lowest in Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Odisha (3-4%) and higher in Kerala and Tamil Nadu (12-15 %). The odds of diabetes was 5.5 times more among elderly, 1.3 times higher among Christians and among high income groups, and 2 times among overweight (CI: 1.50-2.50), obese (CI: 1.61-2.76) and abdominal obesity (OR; 1.57; CI: 1.29-1.91) and 1.6 times more among hypertensives. The odds of diabetes were high among those consuming the lower tertiles of carbohydrates, pulses, milk and milk products and folic acid., Conclusion: the age-adjusted prevalence of diabetes and pre-diabetes was 6.8 % and 8.4 % respectively and the odds of diabetes was high among elderly, among high socio-economic groups, overweight/obese subjects and among hypertensives. Also, knowledge about symptoms of diabetes was low. There is a need to improve awareness for early diagnosis and treatment for control of diabetes and hypertension., Competing Interests: Declaration of competing interest There is no conflict of interest associated with this work., (Copyright © 2024 Cardiological Society of India. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: To determine the intake levels, dietary sources, and determinants of free sugars (FS) consumption amongst Lebanese children and adolescents. Methods: This study is based on data collected by two national cross-sectional surveys conducted on representative samples of Lebanese children: survey 1 (under-five years (U5) children) (n = 899) and survey 2 (5–18 years-old children) (n = 1133). Multi-component questionnaires were used for data collection. Dietary intakes were assessed using one 24 h dietary recall. Median daily intakes of FS, and percent contribution of various food groups to FS intake were compared between sex and age groups. Logistic regressions were conducted to explore the determinants of high FS intake (> 10% energy intake/d), as per the WHO recommendations. Results: Median contribution of FS to daily energy intake was 8.5% in U5 children and 11.9% amongst those aged 5–18 years old. The top contributors to FS in both surveys were sugar-sweetened beverages and biscuits and chocolates. The proportion of children and adolescents exceeding WHO upper limits for FS was estimated at 43 and 62% in survey 1 and survey 2, respectively. Regression models showed females, higher household monthly incomes and higher parental educational levels were associated with significantly lower odds of exceeding the WHO upper limit for FS. Conclusion: The study showed that a high proportion of Lebanese children and adolescents exceeded the WHO upper limit for FS intake, while also documenting a socioeconomic gradient in FS intake. Findings call for devising food system-based interventions to help reduce FS intake in this nutritionally vulnerable age group. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Meals offered through the National School Lunch Program (NSLP) give students access to nutritious foods and have been found to make positive contributions to their diets. Consuming a healthy diet during adolescence is important to ensure that increased requirements for energy and key nutrients are met and to decrease the risk of chronic diseases. This analysis examined whether adolescent NSLP participants consumed more nutritious foods at lunch and over 24 hours than adolescents who ate lunch from home or other places. This analysis used 24-hour dietary recalls for adolescents ages 10–19 (n = 1,311) from the School Nutrition and Meal Cost Study. The nutritional quality of adolescents' diets was assessed using the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2010, where higher scores indicate better conformance with the Dietary Guidelines. HEI-2010 scores for NSLP participants and nonparticipants were compared for lunch and 24-hour intakes. Lunches consumed by NSLP participants received significantly higher total HEI-2010 scores than lunches consumed by nonparticipants, and significantly higher scores for the dairy, whole grains, refined grains, and empty calories components of the HEI-2010. Over 24 hours, differences in total scores were not significant, but participants continued to receive higher scores for dairy and whole grains. Adolescents who participated in the NSLP consumed higher quality lunches than nonparticipants who consumed lunches from home or other places. However, adolescents' 24-hour diets were similar regardless of NSLP participation, suggesting that foods participants consumed the rest of the day negatively influenced the quality of their diets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Research on dietary and other factors associated with dyslipidemia in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is limited. This study assessed the association of diet, body weight and other risk factors of dyslipidemia by conducting a cross-sectional survey among adults residing in three emirates of the UAE. Validated quantitative food frequency questionnaire and the WHO STEPS Instrument were used to assess dietary intakes, body weight and dyslipidemia-related diagnosis. Composite Mediterranean Diet Score was used to assess adherence to the Mediterranean Diet (MD). Of the 610 participants, dyslipidemia was reported by 23.5% of the 319 participants who ever had blood cholesterol levels measured. Self-reported dyslipidemia was associated with increased age, higher BMI, diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease. Most participants did not meet the recommendations for dietary fiber and calorie intake from saturated fats (61.3% and 81.2%, respectively). Participants with dyslipidemia reported a higher median daily intake of vegetables compared to those without dyslipidemia (p < 0.001), who also showed a significantly higher intake of refined grains and sugar-sweetened beverages (p = 0.008). Participants aged ≥50 years were more likely to have adhered to the MD compared to 18–30-year old participants (OR = 4.16; 95% CI 2.59–6.69). Non-Emiratis had higher odds of adherence to the MD compared to UAE nationals (OR = 1.46; 95%CI 1.04–2.06). Interventions targeting behavioral risk factors of dyslipidemia are warranted.

Growth deficit is a common comorbidity and one of the supportive criteria in Rett syndrome (RTT). This study aimed to investigate the impact of dystonia, dietary intakes, and clinical severities on growth patterns in a Taiwanese cohort of RTT. We recruited 44 RTT patients with MECP2 mutation for analysis. For individuals ≤18 years of age, in comparison to the RTT‐specific growth chart which comprised American RTT cohort, the body height was right‐shifted to a higher percentile, whereas the body weight was left‐shifted to a lower percentile. Furthermore, the body mass index was significantly decreased when compared to RTT‐specific growth chart (p = 0.01). Higher degree of overall disease severity (odd ratio = 1.159; 95% CI = 1.063–1.264; p = 0.001) and hand use impairment (odd ratio = 2.017; 95% CI = 1.037, 3.921; p = 0.039) were associated with more severe growth patterns. All individuals had dystonia at certain variable degrees. The dystonia worsened with age (p < 0.001) but did not have significant impact on growth deficit. Most of our cohort had adequate protein (97.37%) and energy (58.97%) intakes. The fiber intakes were generally low, with about 38 (97.4%) individuals did not meet the daily reference intakes of fiber. The protein intake was significantly lower in individuals with severe growth deficit (p = 0.04). Our study shows that ethnicity should be considered when comparing RTT individuals' growth pattern to the RTT‐specific growth chart. Further, disease severity, genotypes, and nutrition exert important impacts on RTT‐growth pattern. Lay Summary Growth impairment is an important issue in Rett syndrome and the underlying patho‐mechanism is multifactorial. Higher degree of overall disease severity and hand use impairment were associated with more severe growth pattern deficits. Although all individuals had dystonia at certain variable degrees and the dystonia worsened with age, but it did not have significant impact on growth deficit. Nutritional intakes may partially affect growth. Furthermore, ethnicity should be considered when comparing RTT individuals' growth pattern to the RTT‐specific growth chart. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The release of the Canadian Community Health Survey (CCHS), Nutrition 2015 provides a unique opportunity since CCHS 2004 to investigate food choices of Canadian children and adolescents at a national level. Objective: This study examined the quality and quantity of food choices of children ages 2–8 years and adolescents 9–18 years, using Health Canada's Surveillance Tool Tier System 2014. It is hypothesized that Canadian children and adolescents are consuming diets poor in nutritional quality based on evidence from the last national nutrition survey in 2004. Design: Intakes from CCHS 2015, 24-h dietary recall were categorized into Health Canada's Tiers 1–4, based on CNF/CFG classification system and thresholds for nutrients to limit i.e., total fat, saturated fats, sugars, and sodium to assess quality of food choices. Additionally, dietary intakes were grouped according to Canada's 2007 food guide servings as the 2019 food guide was not available. Results: Majority of foods reported by children 2–18 years were categorized as Tier 2 and Tier 3 foods. Investigation of energy contributions from the Tier 4 and "other foods" represented 21–25% of daily calorie intake and of these foods, high fat and/or high sugar foods contributed majority of daily calories to these categories. Conclusions: This study showed Canadian children 2–18 years are consuming diets high in nutrients recommended to limit. Evidence from this study provides a unique opportunity to improve the nutritional quality of foods, and the food choices of children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Nutrients are critical for optimal brain development, and good nutritional status is associated with cognitive development and improvement. The relationship between micronutrients intake and cognition in Ghanaian school‐aged children has not been studied. The study investigated dietary intakes of micronutrients and cognition test performance of school‐aged children. A cross‐sectional study was undertaken among 438 school children, aged 9–13 years from ten randomly selected basic schools in Kumasi, Ghana. Socio‐demographic data were obtained from a structured questionnaire. Dietary intakes of iron, zinc, vitamin B6, folate, vitamin B12, and vitamin A were determined from repeated 24‐hr dietary recall data from 351 children, while cognition test was performed using a Raven's Coloured Progressive Matrices (RCPM), a 36‐question test. Among 351 children, 156 (44.4%) had inadequate zinc intake, whereas 96 (27.4%) had inadequate iron intake. More than 1 in 2 children had inadequate vitamin A intake while 55.8% and 53.0% had inadequate vitamin B12 and folate intakes, respectively. More school‐aged boys (66.3%) than girls (46.8%) had inadequate vitamin B12 intake (χ2 = 13.393, p

Background: Food insecurity has been shown to be associated with poor dietary quality and eating behaviors, which can have both short- and long-term adverse health outcomes in children. The objective was to investigate the food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors in a convenience sample of youth participating in the Maple Leaf Sports Entertainment LaunchPad programming in downtown Toronto, Ontario. Methods: Youth aged 9–18 years were recruited to participate in the study. Food security status, dietary intakes, and eating behaviors were collected using parent- or self-reported questionnaires online. Results: Sixty-six youth (mean ± SD: 11.7 ± 1.9 years) participated in the study. The prevalence of household food insecurity was higher than the national average with at least one child under 18 years of age (27.7% vs. 16.2%). Dietary intake patterns were similar to the national trends with low intakes of fiber, inadequate intakes of calcium and vitamin D; and excess intakes of sodium, added sugar, and saturated fat. Despite a low prevalence of poor eating habits, distracted eating was the most frequently reported poor eating habit. Conclusions: Although youth were at high risk for experiencing household food insecurity, inadequate dietary intake patterns were similar to the national trends. Our findings can be used to develop future programming to facilitate healthy dietary behaviors appropriate for the target community.

Carotenoids and vitamin A are nutrients crucial to infants’ development. To date, there is limited data on their availability in breastmilk and the associated dietary factors, especially in Hong Kong, where people follow a westernized Chinese diet. This study determined the selected breastmilk’s carotenoid and vitamin A (retinol) contents by ultraperformance liquid chromatography with photodiode detection (UPLC-PDA) and the dietary intakes by three-day food records in 87 Hong Kong lactating mothers, who were grouped into tertiles based on their daily carotenoid intake. Low vitamin A intake (530.2 ± 34.2 µg RAE/day) and breastmilk retinol level (1013.4 ± 36.8 nmol/L) were reported in our participants, suggesting a poor vitamin A status of the lactating participants having relatively higher socioeconomic status in Hong Kong. Mothers in the highest tertile (T3) had higher breastmilk carotenoid levels than those in the lowest (T1) (p < 0.05). There were significant associations between maternal carotenoid intakes and breastmilk lutein levels in the linear regression models (p < 0.05) regardless of dietary supplement intake. Furthermore, maternal dark green vegetable intakes were associated with breastmilk retinol, lutein, and β-carotene levels. These findings can serve as dietary references for lactating mothers to enhance breastmilk carotenoid and vitamin A contents for the benefits of child growth and development.

A comprehensive assessment of the dietary status of university students in Indonesia is lacking. Hence, this study aims to assess students’ dietary habits, status, and the nutritive value of meals offered at university canteens. This was a cross-sectional study based on the dietary habits of 333 students, 26 of whom were interviewed for the dietary survey. The nutritional value of canteen menus used by nearly half of the students (44%) was also examined. Most menus lacked macro and micronutrients (i.e., calcium, 15.5%) and were high in salt (181.5%). BMIs showed malnutrition among students (38.5%). The protein, fat, carbohydrate (PFC) ratio showed a high proportion of fat (32.4%) in the diets of female students. The level of salt intake (96.2%) was above the Indonesian recommended dietary allowance (RDA). Most students had unhealthy dietary patterns, including a high consumption of sweet beverages and instant noodles and a low intake of fruits, vegetables, animal protein, and milk. The lack of nutrients in canteen menus might lead to a nutrient deficiency among the students, which underlines the important role of canteens in the students’ dietary intake. Optimizing the nutritional profile of menus, labeling based on nutrient profiling, and promoting nutrition education should be addressed to improve students’ diets.

Astaxanthin, a potent antioxidant compound, is well recognized for its beneficial effects to protect from oxidative stress and free radicals. However, the effects of long period of use of astaxanthin on biological parameters, health indicators, and energy intake are still largely unknown. A total of 33 healthy participants aged 21-54 years with body mass index in the range of 18.50-24.90 kg/m2 were enrolled in this randomized controlled trial and were assigned into astaxanthin and placebo groups. The participants in the astaxanthin group received 4 mg of astaxanthin once daily for 12 consecutive weeks. Dietary intakes, as well as blood levels of astaxanthin and biological parameters, were investigated at baseline and week 12. The significant elevation of blood astaxanthin level in the astaxanthin group was notified at week 12. Regarding basic characteristics of blood biochemical parameters, results indicated that the fasting blood glucose, total cholesterol, highdensity lipoprotein cholesterol, and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol were not significantly different between astaxanthin and placebo groups at week 12. Interestingly, the significant decrease in total energy and carbohydrate intakes of the participants in the astaxanthin group (P < 0.05) was found after 12-week supplementation, compared to the baseline. The findings support the safety of long-term supplementation and reveal potential dietary intake lowering effect of astaxanthin in healthy individuals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this study was to determine the prevalence of food and nutrition insecurity and assess the socio-demographic factors associated with food and nutrition insecurity among 146 free-living elderly persons attending a care centre in Sharpeville, South Africa. Measurement instruments included socio-demographic-, 24-hour-recall and dietary diversity questionnaires and the validated household food insecurity access scale/score (HFIAS). Data were analysed with IBM SPSS Software, version 25.0. The prevalence of food insecurity from HFIAS was 60% (n = 87), with a variety of balanced responses being employed. Significant relationships were observed between HFIAS and age (r = 0.301; p = 0.000) and with household income (r = −0.258; p = 0.007). An association was observed between HFIAS and marital status (p = 0.005). Regression analysis showed that age and being single were predictors of food and nutrition insecurity. This study indicated a problem of household food insecurity with poor dietary intakes among these elderly people, mostly due to poverty and being single. More research on associations between food security and socio-economic variables is needed to plan and implement appropriate strategies to address food and nutrition insecurity in South Africa. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Body weight dissatisfaction is associated with unhealthy dietary behaviours in young adults, but data are scarce regarding how this relationship evolves with age. The objectives of the present study were to assess the prevalence of body weight dissatisfaction and the association between body weight dissatisfaction, nutrient intake and diet quality in middle-aged and older women. We used data of a population-based sample of 468 middle-aged (50–64 y/o) and older (65–75 y/o) women, extracted from the cross-sectional 2014–15 Swiss National Nutrition Survey. Body weight dissatisfaction was assessed by questionnaire. Dietitians assessed dietary intakes using two non-consecutive computer-assisted multi-pass 24-h dietary recalls and performed anthropometric measurements. Nutrient intakes were calculated and compared with national dietary guidelines, and diet quality scored with the 2010 Alternate Healthy Eating Index (2010-AHEI). 41⋅1 % of women reported body weight dissatisfaction, and 49⋅8 % wanted to lose weight. Body weight dissatisfaction was associated with weight loss desire and a higher body mass index (BMI; P < 0⋅001). Women with body weight dissatisfaction consumed significantly less carbohydrates and dietary fibres, even when BMI was controlled for (P < 0⋅05). They also fell short of national dietary guidelines for magnesium and iron. Body weight dissatisfied women obtained lower 2010-AHEI scores than satisfied women (β −4⋅36, 95 % CI −6⋅78, −1⋅93). However, this association disappeared when the BMI was introduced in the equation. This highlights the importance of targeting both body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating in obesity prevention and treatment at all ages.

Body weight dissatisfaction is associated with unhealthy dietary behaviours in young adults, but data are scarce regarding how this relationship evolves with age. The objectives of the present study were to assess the prevalence of body weight dissatisfaction and the association between body weight dissatisfaction, nutrient intake and diet quality in middle-aged and older women. We used data of a population-based sample of 468 middle-aged (50–64 y/o) and older (65–75 y/o) women, extracted from the cross-sectional 2014–15 Swiss National Nutrition Survey. Body weight dissatisfaction was assessed by questionnaire. Dietitians assessed dietary intakes using two non-consecutive computer-assisted multi-pass 24-h dietary recalls and performed anthropometric measurements. Nutrient intakes were calculated and compared with national dietary guidelines, and diet quality scored with the 2010 Alternate Healthy Eating Index (2010-AHEI). 41⋅1 % of women reported body weight dissatisfaction, and 49⋅8 % wanted to lose weight. Body weight dissatisfaction was associated with weight loss desire and a higher body mass index (BMI; P < 0⋅001). Women with body weight dissatisfaction consumed significantly less carbohydrates and dietary fibres, even when BMI was controlled for (P < 0⋅05). They also fell short of national dietary guidelines for magnesium and iron. Body weight dissatisfied women obtained lower 2010-AHEI scores than satisfied women (β −4⋅36, 95 % CI −6⋅78, −1⋅93). However, this association disappeared when the BMI was introduced in the equation. This highlights the importance of targeting both body dissatisfaction and unhealthy eating in obesity prevention and treatment at all ages. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although it is generally acknowledged that genetic and environmental factors are associated with risk of congenital heart disease (CHD), the causes are not fully understood. This study aimed at assessing the association of maternal dietary intakes, genetic variants of cystathionine beta synthase (CBS) gene and their interactions with risk of CHDs in offspring. A hospital-based case-control study of 464 mothers with CHD infants and 504 control mothers of health infant was performed. The exposures of interest were maternal dietary intakes in early pregnancy, single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) of CBS gene. More frequent intake of pickled vegetables (adjusted odds ratio[aOR] = 1.81; 95% confidence interval[CI]: 1.38–2.37), smoked foods (aOR = 2.00; 95%CI: 1.53–2.60), barbecued foods (aOR = 1.63; 95%CI: 1.19–2.25) and fried foods (aOR = 1.57; 95%CI: 1.22–2.03) were associated with higher risk of CHD, while salted eggs (aOR = 0.20; 95%CI: 0.12–0.33), fish and shrimp (aOR = 0.34; 95%CI: 0.27–0.44), fresh fruits (aOR = 0.49; 95%CI: 0.37–0.66), and milk products (aOR = 0.54; 95%CI: 0.45–0.65) were associated with lower risk of CHD. The SNPs of CBS gene at rs2851391 (T/T vs C/C: aOR = 1.91, 95%CI: 1.15–3.15) and rs234714 (T/T vs C/C: aOR = 2.22, 95%CI: 1.32–3.73) significantly increased the risk of CHD. Additionally, significant interaction effects between maternal dietary intakes and CBS genetic variants on CHD risks were observed. Maternal dietary factors, CBS genetic variants and their interactions were significantly associated with risk of CHD in offspring. However, it is still unclear how these factors jointly work in the development of CHD, and more studies with larger samples and prospective design are required. • Maternal dietary factors in early pregnancy are significantly associated with the development of CHD in offspring. • The polymorphisms of CBS gene at rs2851391 and rs234714 significantly increase the risk of CHD in offspring. • There are Interaction effects between maternal dietary intakes and polymorphisms of the CBS gene on the risk of CHD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND: Older adults, both institutionalized and free-living are vulnerable to nutritional deficiencies and poor nutritional status, which affect morbidity and quality of life amongst them. Yet, little attention on nutritional needs is given to this vulnerable group in many developing countries, and very little data exist on the nutritional status of older Ghanaians. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed dietary intakes, anthropometric status, and anaemia prevalence among older adults in Effutu Municipality, Ghana. METHODS: Using a cross-sectional design, anthropometry, repeated 24-hour dietary recall, haemoglobin levels were determined among 150 older adults (60–87 years). The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) questionnaire was used to determine malnutrition prevalence among older adults. RESULTS: None of the older adults met estimated average requirement (EAR) and adequate intake (AI) for vitamin E and calcium respectively, and 72.0%, 71.3%, 99.3%, 98.7%,76.0% had insufficient intake for energy, protein, zinc, folate and vitamin C respectively. Also, 39.3% were anaemic using haemoglobin cut-offs, 12.0% were malnourished based on the MNA tool and 28.0% were underweight based on BMI index. Married older adults (OR = 0.1, p = 0.005, 95% CI = 0.1–0.5) had lower odds for anaemia than those who were divorced. Underweight participants had 11.7 increased odds of being anaemic (OR = 11.7, p = 0.048, 95% CI = 1.0–135.0) than overweight participants. Those who had adequate vitamin C (OR = 0.3, p = 0.018, 95% CI = 0.1–0.8) and folate (OR = 0.2, p = 0.396, 95% CI = 0.1–6.7) intakes had lower odds of being anaemic than those with inadequate vitamin C and folate intakes, while those who had adequate iron (OR = 1.4, p = 0.412, 95% CI = 0.6–3.2) and vitamin B12 (OR = 1.6, p = 0.473, 95% CI = 0.5–5.3) intakes were more likely to be anaemic CONCLUSIONS: Inadequate nutrient intakes, anaemia, underweight and malnutrition prevalence were found among these older adults. Anaemia was associated with being underweight, but not nutrients intake. The nutritional needs of older people should be addressed to reduce risks for disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Valid assessment tools are needed when investigating adherence to national dietary and lifestyle guidelines., Objective: The relative validity of the new digital food frequency questionnaire, the DIGIKOST-FFQ, against 7-day weighed food records and activity sensors was investigated., Methods: In total, 77 participants were included in the validation study and completed the DIGIKOST-FFQ and the weighed food record, and of these, 56 (73%) also used the activity sensors. The DIGIKOST-FFQ estimates the intake of foods according to the Norwegian food-based dietary guidelines (FBDGs) in addition to lifestyle factors., Results: At the group level, the DIGIKOST-FFQ showed good validity in estimating intakes according to the Norwegian FBDG. The median differences were small and well below portion sizes for all foods except "water" (median difference 230 g/day). The DIGIKOST-FFQ was able to rank individual intakes for all foods (r=0.2-0.7). However, ranking estimates of vegetable intakes should be interpreted with caution. Between 69% and 88% of the participants were classified into the same or adjacent quartile for foods and between 71% and 82% for different activity intensities. The Bland-Altman plots showed acceptable agreements between DIGIKOST-FFQ and the reference methods. The absolute amount of time in "moderate to vigorous intensity" was underestimated with the DIGIKOST-FFQ. However, estimated time in "moderate to vigorous intensity," "vigorous intensity," and "sedentary time" showed acceptable correlations and good agreement between the methods. The DIGIKOST-FFQ was able to identify adherence to the Norwegian FBDG and physical activity recommendations., Conclusions: The DIGIKOST-FFQ gave valid estimates of dietary intakes and was able to identify individuals with different degrees of adherence to the Norwegian FBDG and physical activity recommendations. Moderate physical activity was underreported, water was overreported, and vegetables showed poor correlation, which are important to consider when interpreting the data. Good agreement was observed between the methods in estimating dietary intakes and time in "moderate to vigorous physical activity," "sedentary time," and "sleep.", (©Hege Berg Henriksen, Markus Dines Knudsen, Anette Hjartåker, Rune Blomhoff, Monica Hauger Carlsen. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org), 30.04.2024.)

Within 20 y, the number of adults in the United States over the age of 65 y is expected to more than double and the number over age 85 y is expected to more than triple. The risk for most chronic diseases and disabilities increases with age, so this demographic shift carries significant implications for the individual, health care providers, and population health. Strategies that delay or prevent the onset of age-related diseases are becoming increasingly important. Although considerable progress has been made in understanding the contribution of nutrition to healthy aging, it has become increasingly apparent that much remains to be learned, especially because the aging process is highly variable. Most federal nutrition programs and nutrition research studies define all adults over age 65 y as "older" and do not account for physiological and metabolic changes that occur throughout older adulthood that influence nutritional needs. Moreover, the older adult population is becoming more racially and ethnically diverse, so cultural preferences and other social determinants of health need to be considered. The Research Centers Collaborative Network sponsored a 1.5-d multidisciplinary workshop that included sessions on dietary patterns in health and disease, timing and targeting interventions, and health disparities and the social context of diet and food choice. The agenda and presentations can be found at https://www.rccn-aging.org/nutrition-2023-rccn-workshop. Here we summarize the workshop's themes and discussions and highlight research gaps that if filled will considerably advance our understanding of the role of nutrition in healthy aging., (Copyright © 2024 The Authors. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.)

Purpose: Fish and seafood consumption by North American children is low. This is concerning, given the critical role of n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid), found in fish and seafood, in early development. This study aimed to determine whether parental factors related to fish and seafood consumption are associated with frequency of fish and seafood consumption in Canadian children. Methods: A subgroup of parents (n = 28) participating in the Guelph Family Health Study Pilot reported their perceptions and history of fish and seafood consumption, confidence in preparing fish and seafood dishes, and the frequency of intake for their children (n = 40). Results: This study found that 20% of children consumed one serving of saltwater fish, freshwater fish, or shellfish weekly and 63% consumed at least one type of fish or seafood monthly. Parental cooking confidence preparing fish and seafood was positively associated with at least monthly fish and seafood intake in children. Conclusions: These findings suggest that some children may have low intakes of fish and seafood due to a lack of parental cooking confidence when preparing fish and seafood dishes. Therefore, future research and interventions focused on addressing this barrier may aid in improving fish and seafood intake.

Biogenic amines (BAs) are natural toxicants produced during the metabolism of their precursor amino acids or due to the proteolytic activities of some microorganisms. The objective of this study was to estimate the formed BAs in five types of the most commonly consumed and retailed cheese in Egypt. The examined cheese types included Feta, Karish, Mozzarella, Rumy, and Mish. Besides, the total mesophilic (TMC) and total psychrophilic (TPsC) bacterial counts were investigated. Furthermore, the estimated daily intakes (EDI) of BAs via the ingestion of various types of cheese were calculated, and their potential health risks were discussed. The achieved results indicated the formation of histamine (HIS), tyramine (TYR), cadaverine (CAD), putrescine, spermine, and spermidine at different concentrations. Except for Feta cheese, all samples (100%) of other cheese types had HIS concentrations higher than the established maximum permissible limits. Mish cheese contained the highest concentrations of total BAs, particularly, HIS, TYR, and CAD. TBA content showed significant positive correlations with TMC in the examined cheese types. The recorded EDI values of the different BAs in the current study would not have adverse effects. However, excessive consumption of cheese contaminated with BA might have serious health implications such as symptoms of histamine poisoning. Therefore, the adoption of strict hygienic measures during the production, storage, and distribution of cheese is highly recommended to reduce the formation of BAs in cheese. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: There is a tendency to report oily fish intakes for adults collectively. This means that certain population groups tend to be overlooked. The purpose of the present article is to derive and evaluate oily fish and omega-3 intakes across the lifespan.Methods: A secondary analysis of the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (years 2008–2016) was undertaken. Data from n = 2,949 participants ≥4 years was analyzed. Alongside this, data was extracted from surveys published within the last 5-years reporting omega-3 intakes.Results: Overall, only a quarter (25.2%) of the UK population are oily fish consumers. Amongst those eating oily fish only 7.3% of children, 12.8% of teenagers, and 15.6% of young adults (20–29 years) met oily fish recommendations. Mean intakes of oily fish ranged between 3.4 and 19.1 g/day. Females aged 30–39 and 60–69 years had significantly lower daily oily fish intakes than males (P = 0.05 and P = 0.049) although their intakes were higher than men in their fifties (P = 0.048). Between 2008 and 2016 oily fish intakes have remained relatively stable although a significant decline was seen amongst those aged 50–59 years (P = 0.048). Survey data (n = 10 publications) showed that EPA and DHA intakes were consistently lower than guidelines, with children, teenagers, females, and pregnant women having some of the largest dietary gaps.Conclusions: Younger generations, women of childbearing age and pregnant mothers appear to be at particular risk of oily fish and omega-3 shortfalls. Declining EPA and DHA profiles of farmed fish and plant-based food movements are only likely to exacerbate already inadequate intakes. Urgent public health campaigns are needed to improve UK intakes, which should include a combined approach of dietary and supplemental sources.

Abstract Background The use of valid dietary assessment methods is crucial to analyse adherence to dietary recommendations among pregnant women. This study aims to assess the relative validity of a self-administered Web-based 24-h dietary recall, the R24W, against a pen-paper 3-day food record (FR) among pregnant women. Methods Sixty (60) pregnant women recruited at 9.3 ± 0.7 weeks of pregnancy in Quebec City completed, at each trimester, 3 R24W and a 3-day FR. Mean energy and nutrient intakes reported by both tools were compared using paired Student T-Tests. Pearson correlations were used to analyze the association between both methods. Agreement between the two methods was evaluated using cross-classification analyses, weighted kappa coefficients and Bland-Altman analyses. Results Pearson correlation coefficients were all significant, except for vitamin B12 (r = 0.03; p = 0.83) and ranged from 0.27 to 0.76 (p

Background: Riboflavin is required to generate the active form of vitamin B-6 (pyridoxal 5'-phosphate; PLP) in tissues, but the relevance of this metabolic interaction for nutritional status of vitamin B-6 is unclear because riboflavin biomarkers are rarely measured in human studies.Objectives: The purpose of this study was to identify the determinants of biomarkers of vitamin B-6 and riboflavin status and to examine the relationship between these nutrients in healthy adults.Methods: Multiple linear regression was performed on observational data in 407 healthy adults aged 18-92 y who did not use B-vitamin supplements. Vitamin B-6 status was assessed by plasma PLP concentrations and erythrocyte glutathione reductase activation coefficient (EGRac) was used as a functional indicator of riboflavin status.Results: Dietary intakes of vitamin B-6 and riboflavin were below the average requirements in 10% and 29% of participants, respectively. Suboptimal status of vitamin B-6 (PLP ≤30.0 nmol/L) was more prevalent in adults aged ≥60 y than in younger participants (i.e., 14% compared with 5%), whereas a high proportion (i.e., overall 37%) of both age groups had deficient riboflavin status (EGRac ≥1.40). In multiple regression analysis, EGRac (P = 0.019) was a significant determinant of plasma PLP, along with dietary vitamin B-6 intake (P = 0.003), age (P < 0.001), BMI (kg/m2) (P = 0.031), and methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase gene (MTHFR) genotype (P < 0.001). Significant determinants of EGRac were dietary riboflavin intake (P < 0.001), age (P < 0.001) and MTHFR genotype (P = 0.020). Plasma PLP showed a stepwise decrease across riboflavin status categories from optimal (EGRac ≤1.26) to low (EGRac 1.27-1.39) to deficient status (P = 0.001), independent of dietary vitamin B-6 intake.Conclusions: The findings are consistent with the known metabolic dependency of vitamin B-6 on riboflavin status and indicate that riboflavin may be the limiting nutrient, particularly in older people, for maintaining adequate vitamin B-6 status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent federal proposals in Canada have called for changes in the delivery and funding of school lunches. Yet little evidence has documented the nutritional quality of meals eaten by school children, which is needed to inform school lunch reforms. To assess the dietary contributions of lunch foods to daily food and nutrient intakes on school days and compare dietary intakes across eating locations (school, home, and off campus). Cross-sectional analyses of school day data from the 2015 Canadian Community Health Survey—Nutrition. Children aged 6 to 17 years who completed a 24-hour dietary recall falling on a school day in 2015 (n=2,540). Mean percent of daily intakes of energy, food groups, and nutrients contributed by foods reported at lunch and energy-adjusted intakes of nutrients and food groups consumed during the lunch meal. Descriptive statistics were used to assess the percent of daily energy, nutrients, and food groups contributed by lunch foods. Multivariable linear regression models examined differences in dietary outcomes across eating locations for the full sample and stratified by age group, with separate models for children aged 6 to 13 and 14 to 17 years. On average, foods reported at lunch provided ∼26% of daily calories on school days. Relative to energy, lunch foods provided lower contributions of dark green and orange vegetables, whole fruit, fruit juice, whole grains, milk and alternatives, fluid milk; minimally nutritious foods including sugar-sweetened beverages; and several related nutrients including total sugars; vitamins A, D, B-6, and B-12; riboflavin; and calcium. Yet, lunch foods provided proportionally higher contributions of grain products, non–whole grains, meat and alternatives, and sodium. Children aged 14 to 17 years who ate lunch at school reported higher intakes of total vegetables and fruit, whole fruit, whole grains, fiber, vitamin C, and magnesium but reported fewer calories from sugar-sweetened beverages compared with their peers who ate lunch off campus. Relative to its contribution to energy, lunch on school days contributed to proportionally lower intakes of many healthful foods such as dark green and orange vegetables, whole fruit, whole grains, and fluid milk but also proportionally lower intakes of other high-fat and high-sugar foods including sugar-sweetened beverages. This study adds to the growing body of evidence on dietary concerns during school time for Canadian children and highlights particular nutritional challenges for adolescents consuming lunch off campus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Previous studies showed an association between dietary intakes and psychological disorders. This study aimed to assess the association between dietary intakes and psychiatric disorders in Iran. Methods: In this cross sectional research, the data on 9965 adults were extracted from enrollment phase of Yazd Health Study (YaHS); a population-based cohort study on Iranian adults which was conducted during 2014 to 2016. Data on socio-demographic characteristics, tobacco use, history of chronic disease, and dietary assessment were collected using a validated researcher-made questionnaire. Moreover, anthropometric measurement was conducted. Psychological and physical activity assessments were also performed by depression, anxiety and stress scale questionnaire (DASS 21 items) and the short form of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) respectively. Finally, multiple logistic regression analysis was used to evaluate relation between dietary intakes and psychological disorders. Results: After adjusting for the confounders, egg (depression: OR = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.52–0.98; anxiety: OR = 0.72, CI: 0.55–0.94), fruits (depression: OR = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.43–0.82; anxiety: OR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.53–0.91), milk (depression: OR = 0.72, CI: 0.58–0.89; anxiety: OR = 0.73, CI: 0.61–0.87), and yogurt (depression: OR = 0.67, CI: 0.47–0.97; anxiety: OR = 0.54, CI: 0.4–0.73) were found to have protective effects on depression and anxiety. Higher fish consumption was associated with greater depression odds (OR = 1.54, CI: 1.18–2.04). Vegetables' intake had an inverse relationship with anxiety (OR = 0.74, CI = 0.58–0.93) and stress (OR = 0.59, CI: 0.42–0.82). Fruits (OR = 0.6, CI: 0.43–0.85) and milk consumption (OR: 0.61, CI: 0.47–0.77) were found to have protective effects on stress. Conclusions: Egg, fruits, milk, yogurt, and vegetables' consumption had an inverse relationship with psychiatric disorders; whereas, higher fish intake was associated with higher depression chance. Further prospective studies are needed to confirm these findings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]