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The nutrition transition in sub‐Saharan Africa has led to increased consumption of ultra‐processed foods in infancy, especially sweet foods. This has heightened the risk for nutrition‐related non‐communicable diseases, including dental caries and overweight/obesity, and promotes poor food choices later in life. The present study used a cross‐sectional design to investigate the consumption frequency of ultra‐processed foods and beverages among urban 6‐ to 36‐month‐olds attending four selected health facilities in Kampala using a standardised questionnaire and 24‐h diet recall record. The primary outcome was the consumption of at least one ultra‐processed food or beverage (UPFB) the previous day, and frequency of UPFB consumption of the week before was the secondary outcome. Four hundred and ten caregiver–child pairs were randomly recruited, 94% of caregivers being mothers with a mean age of 30.7 (±5.3) years. Fifty‐nine per cent of mothers and 73% of fathers had attained a college education. The median age of children was 18 months and 51% were female. Most children (57%) consumed at least one UPFB the previous day. In the week before, 69% had consumed UPFB frequently (4–7 days) which was significantly positively associated with maternal education (odds ratio [OR] = 2.85, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–7.96, p = 0.045) and child's age ([OR = 2.87, 95% CI: 1.62–5.08, p < 0.001], [OR = 3.68, 95% CI: 1.88–7.20, p < 0.001]). In conclusion, the dietary habits of the surveyed Ugandan population were unhealthy, characterised by the frequent consumption of UPFB with added sugar. There is an urgent need to re‐enforce existing Ugandan food regulation guidelines and policies and to build strong nutritional education programmes to enhance health‐promoting environments in early childhood. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recent studies have provided compelling evidence to suggest that various environmental factors play a significant role in the development of food allergies. As our society experiences rapid economic growth, increased urbanization, and a shift towards a more Westernized diet, the incidence of food allergies is also on the rise and the pattern is gradually evolving. This review will delve into the changes in the epidemiology of food allergies within the Asia‐Pacific region and the various dietary practices and factors that are postulated to play a role in the rise in food allergies over the years. Although there have been important advancements in the field of food allergies, there are still numerous uncertainties regarding the intricate relationship between diet and food allergies. Specifically, the role of epigenetic factors in influencing the susceptibility to food allergies, as evidenced by studies that assessed the impact of migration and rural–urban dynamics, is not fully understood. Addressing this knowledge gap presents an opportunity to develop more effective prevention and treatment strategies that could greatly benefit individuals living with food allergies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lebanon is a country in the Middle East that had been witnessing nutrition transition to a westernized diet high in trans fats (TFs) and saturated fatty acids (TFAs) that had been linked to cardiovascular diseases and many other health issues. This study examines TF‐related awareness, knowledge, and self‐reported behaviors among a sample of Lebanese adults aged between 18 and 64 years, as well as their association with sociodemographic factors and anthropometric measurements. Using a multicomponent questionnaire, a cross‐sectional study was conducted online, across all Lebanese regions based on a convenience sampling method (n = 401). Factors associated with TF‐related awareness, knowledge, and behaviors were examined by multivariate linear regression analysis. The study highlighted specific gaps in TF‐related awareness, knowledge, and behavioral practices as well as differences by sociodemographic factors. Most of the participants (36%) had heard of partly hydrogenated oils (PHOs) rather than TFs (49%). A higher proportion of respondents (54%) said they understood a little about TFs, the majority had inadequate knowledge about the foods that contain TFs, and 44% said they would not give up eating their favorite snack even if they knew it contains TFs. Overall, consumers' awareness and knowledge about TFs are rather low and the majority had fair behavioral practices. In addition, being a woman and having higher education level were significantly associated with higher levels of TFs awareness, knowledge, and behavior scores. Higher behavior scores were shown in older participants, married, and those who had part‐time jobs, whereas having higher income and normal weight were significantly associated with higher awareness scores. These findings offer valuable insight into TF‐related awareness, knowledge, and behaviors in a sample of Lebanese adults and provide key information that could spur the development of evidence‐based TFs reduction interventions specific to the Middle East. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over the past decades, China has been undergoing rapid economic growth, which may have significantly influenced the dietary patterns and health status of the Chinese population. Our study aimed to assess the associations of potential macronutrient trajectory patterns with chronic diseases and all-cause mortality using the latent class trajectory model (LCTM) and the longitudinal data of the China Health and Nutrition Survey obtained between 1991 and 2015. A 24-hour diet recall was used to assess the dietary intake. The Poisson regression model was employed to investigate the correlations between trajectory patterns and chronic diseases and all-cause mortality. A total of 8115 participants were included in the final analysis. We explored four and three trajectory patterns for male and female populations, respectively. We found that a decreasing very high-carbohydrate trajectory together with a U-shape protein trajectory was associated with a higher risk of diabetes in the male population (odds ratio (OR): 2.23; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.31–3.77). A similar pattern for moderate protein intake was also associated with the risk of diabetes in the female population (OR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.18–2.79). In addition, we show that a decreasing low-carbohydrate trajectory and an increasing high-fat trajectory were associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.60–0.96) and a higher risk of obesity (OR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.05–1.47) in males. Our results shed light on some salient nutritional problems in China, particularly the dual challenges of undernutrition and overnutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Increasing dietary diversity is a sustainable solution to combat micronutrient deficiencies. Given the large slum population in urban India, double burden of malnutrition, nutritional transition among slum-dwellers, and limited studies focusing on dietary intake and diversity among pregnant slum-dwellers, this study aimed to 1) describe macro- and micronutrient intakes and compare them with guidelines, 2) describe dietary diversity and intake of unhealthy foods and, 3) investigate the sociodemographic and lifestyle determinants of adequate dietary diversity among pregnant slum-dwellers in Pune, Maharashtra, India. Methods: This study presents cross-sectional data of 454 pregnant slum-dwelling women completing mid-pregnancy visit collected from a larger cohort study. Sociodemographic and lifestyle data were collected at baseline (< 12 weeks gestation). Dietary data (24-h dietary recall) were collected in mid-pregnancy (23 ± 2 weeks). Nutrient intakes were compared with the Estimated Average Requirements (EAR) for pregnant Indian women. Dietary diversity score (DDS, range 0–10) and unhealthy food (sweet snacks, sweet beverages, fried and salty food) group score (range 0–3) were calculated as per FAO guidelines. Multivariate logistic regression was conducted to examine determinants of adequate dietary diversity (DDS ≥ 5). Results: The average age of women was 25 (4.5) years. The median (Q1, Q3) total energy and protein intakes were 1771 (1456, 2185) kcal/d and 44.7 (34.7, 55.0) g/d, respectively. Total energy and protein were consumed as per EAR by 37% and 54% of women, respectively. Forty percent of women exceeded the recommended energy intake from carbohydrates. Diets of slum-dwelling women were lacking in multiple micronutrients (especially iron, zinc, riboflavin, thiamine, folate). The mean DDS was 4.2 ± 1.2 and 36.5% of the women had DDS ≥ 5. All women consumed mainly cereal-based starchy staples; 80% consumed pulses and legumes, and 60% consumed other vegetables. Fifty-nine percent of women consumed ≥ 2 unhealthy food groups. Higher educational and occupational status of the primary earning members of the family and lower parity were determinants of adequate dietary diversity. Conclusion: The diets of pregnant slum-dwelling women were lacking in numerous micronutrients. Dietary counselling programs need to be tailored to the socioeconomic backgrounds of pregnant slum-dwelling women and involve their family members to improve reach and effectiveness. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives Methods Results Conclusions To assess the current prevalences of nutritional status and intestinal parasites, and their potential association with socio‐environmental conditions among schoolchildren in Aristóbulo del Valle, Misiones.We measured body weight and height in 444 schoolchildren aged 3–14 years and evaluated their nutritional status following WHO criteria. We examined fecal samples and anal swabs from 234 schoolchildren and collected socio‐environmental data through questionnaires.The prevalence of undernutrition was 4.5% and excess of weight was 24.1%. The prevalence of stunting and of being overweight reached 2.3% and 12.4%, respectively. About 42% of the schoolchildren were infected with at least one of the 12 species identified. The most prevalent species were Blastocystis sp., Enterobius vermicularis, and Giardia lamblia. Entamoeba dispar was recorded for the first time in the locality. The multiple correspondence analysis identified peri‐urban, urban, and rural groups. Underweight, stunting and obesity were highest in the peri‐urban group, while overweight, wasting and parasitism rates were highest in the rural group. The urban group showed the lowest parasitic prevalences. Bed‐sharing, mother's education, and animal husbandry were associated with parasitic infections.The study highlights a decrease in undernutrition but a rise in overweight and obesity, indicating an ongoing nutritional transition. The association between socio‐environmental risk factors and parasitic infections underscore the need for comprehensive interventions addressing both nutritional and socio‐environmental conditions to improve the population's life quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: Age at menarche (MA) is a proxy for biological maturation and a parameter of socioeconomic changes. Worldwide, anticipation of menarche is associated with nutritional transition and excess weight. The objective of this study was to evaluate the MA in Amazonian students and its association with nutritional status, ethnicity, and socioeconomic level. Methods: Cross-sectional study with 1,017 students aged 6 to 17 living in the city of Manaus, Brazil. MA was analyzed by status quo and recall; its association with body mass index (BMI), race, socioeconomic status, and adult height was examined. Results: 559 (51.9%) participants had already experienced menarche. In 91.7%, menarche occurred between 10 and 14 years of age; the mean age at the onset of menarche was 11.9 years. Overweight (11.6 years) and obese (11.4 years) participants reached menarche earlier than those with normal weight (12 years) and lean (12.7 years) participants. The associations between MA and nutritional status showed that overweight and obesity are risk factors for the early occurrence of menarche. MA was not associated with socioeconomic status/parental education or race. However, excess weight was associated with earlier MA in all races and social classes. The adult height was slightly lower in girls with menarche before 12 years old (157.9 vs 159.4 cm). Conclusion: Regardless of socioeconomic level or ethnicity, excess weight was associated with earlier menarche in Amazonian students. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While South Africa maintains national food security, food insecurity persists at the household level, with not all households having access to sufficient food. Proposals to address this include promoting the consumption of indigenous foods (IF). However, urbanization in the Gauteng region has sparked a nutrition transition, characterized by increased consumption of Western diets, resulting in rising rates of malnutrition and non-communicable diseases. This study sought to assess the availability and accessibility of indigenous foods in the region for residents. A quantitative cross-sectional research survey was conducted in the Gauteng region, involving 746 participants who provided insights into their ways of acquiring indigenous foods and rated their overall availability. Additionally, the survey gathered opinions on IF availability across different settings and collected suggestions for improving IF accessibility. Among a list of 18 South African indigenous foods, between 55.2 and 77.2% of participants did not know where they could be obtained. Acquisition through vendors, with a maximum of 14% of respondents, emerged as relatively more popular compared to food markets, spaza shops, supermarkets, and home gardens. The majority of surveyed participants (55%) perceived indigenous foods as unavailable in the region. Agreement rates for the availability of indigenous foods for sale or serving in various settings were 53.5% for supermarkets, 42% for schools, 44.2% for hospitals, and 37.5% for workplaces. Respondents suggested several strategies to enhance IF accessibility in the region, including marketing, home gardens, farms, supermarkets, education, elders, restaurants, and schools/universities. Overall, there is a need for increased education on the nutritional benefits of indigenous foods and the implementation of policies to improve their accessibility in urbanized provinces like Gauteng. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Changes in lifestyle and dietary habits that hunter‐gatherer populations have undergone in recent decades have often led to rising obesity rates with disastrous consequences for their health. Objectives: The associations between dietary habits and weight status were studied in 238 "Ju/'hoansi" San (93 women and 145 men) aged between 18 and 65 years in northern Namibia in 1987. Weight status was estimated based on the World Health Organization body mass index (BMI) categories, and dietary habits were recorded using food recall methods. Anthropometrics and weight status were compared with those of a sex‐ and age‐matched sample of "Ju/'hoansi" San people collected by Nancy Howell in 1968/69. Results: Body weight had increased significantly among "Ju/'hoansi" San people from 1968/69 to 1987. The number of underweight people decreased from 1968/69 to 1987. In 1987, most participants (60.9%) were of normal weight. Overweight was found in 1.3% of the women, but not among men. No participants were obese. Less than 4% of the women and less than 2% of the men consumed exclusively traditional hunter‐gatherer food. Westernized food products were significantly (p < 0.001) more common among men and younger people. Dietary patterns were significantly associated with weight status. The less traditional the diet, the higher the BMI (p < 0.001). Conclusion: The transition to domestic agricultural and westernized foods was positively associated with increasing BMI. Overweight, however, was still an extremely rare condition in this population in 1987. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Overweight and obesity prevalence has increased in low-income countries. This study systematically reviewed the obesity trend, disparities, and prevention and control efforts in Nepal. Methods: We searched PubMed and Google Scholar for articles and reports published between January 1, 2004 and December 31, 2022. Additional information on National policies and programs related to obesity prevention was retrieved from governmental websites and consultation with relevant experts. Overweight and obesity were defined using the World Health Organization body mass index cut points. Thirty-two studies and reports were included. Results: Overall, overweight and obesity rates increased in all groups in Nepal although nationally representative data remained limited. The combined overweight and obesity (OW/OB) and obesity rates in women aged 15-49 years increased from 8.5% to 22.2% and from 0.9% to 5.1% between 2006 and 2016, respectively. OW/OB and obesity rates in men were 17.1% and 2.5% based on data from the 2016 Demographic and Health Survey. OW/OB rate in under-five children increased from 0.6% to 2.8% between 2006 and 2016. Obesity rates for school-age (5-9 years) boys and girls in 2016 were 2.4% and 2.8%, respectively, and were 1.1% and 1.4% for male and female adolescents aged 10-19 years, respectively. OW/OB prevalence was much higher among women, residents in urban areas and central provinces, and in higher socioeconomic status groups. Projected prevalence of OW/OB and obesity for 2030 in adults aged 15-49 was 44.7% and 8.3%, respectively, while it was 2.2% for OW/OB in preschool children. Policies and direct interventions that specifically focused on obesity prevention and control are limited. Conclusions: OW/OB prevalence in Nepal has increased during the past 1.8 decades, disproportionately affecting population groups. Existing interventions mostly focused on undernutrition with some indirect implications for obesity prevention. In the future, Nepal needs to develop population-based programs for obesity prevention. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Mediterranean diet (MD) and Western diet (WD) are poles apart as dietary patterns. Despite the availability of epidemiological tools to estimate the adherence to MD, to date, there is a lack of combined scores. We developed MEDOC, a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) designed to calculate a combined adherence score for both diets and validated it on 213 subjects. The test–retest reliability revealed all frequency questions falling within the acceptable range of 0.5 to 0.7 (Pearson correlation coefficient) in younger (<30 years old) subjects, while 1 question out of 39 fell below the range in older (>30 years old) participants. The reproducibility for portion size was less satisfying, with, respectively, 38.2% and 70.5% of questions falling below 0.5 (Cohen's Kappa index) for younger and older subjects. The good correlation (R = 0.63, p < 0.0001 for subjects younger than 30 years and R = 0.54, p < 0.0001 for subjects older than 30 years, Pearson's correlation coefficient) between the MEDOC score and the MediDietScore (MDS) confirmed the validity of the MEDOC score in identifying patients who adhere to the MD. Harnessing the capabilities of this innovative tool, we aim to broaden the existing perspective to study complex dietary patterns in nutritional epidemiology studies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Available data show that the epidemiological profile of most indigenous Brazilian populations is characterized by the coexistence of long-standing health problems (high prevalence of infectious and parasitic diseases, malnutrition, and deficiency diseases, such as anemia in children and women of reproductive age), associated with new health problems, especially those related to obesity (hypertension, type 2 diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia). Based on this scenario, this study analyzed the nutritional profile of the adult population of seven indigenous peoples from the Brazilian Amazon in the years 2007 and 2021. Methods: A total of 598 adults individuals were analyzed in 2007 (319 women and 279 men) and 924 in 2021 (483 women and 441 men), from seven indigenous peoples located in the state of Pará, who were assisted during health actions carried out in 2007 and in 2021. Body mass index classification used the World Health Organization criteria for adults: low weight, < 18.5 kg/m2; normal weight, ≥ 18.5 and < 25 kg/m2); overweight, ≥ 25 and < 30 kg/m2, and obesity, ≥ 30 kg/m2. A waist circumference (WC) < 90 cm in men and < 80 cm in women was considered normal. Results: The data revealed heterogeneous anthropometric profiles, with a low prevalence of nutritional changes in the Araweté, Arara and Parakanã peoples, and high proportions of excess weight and abdominal obesity in the Kararaô, Xikrin do Bacajá, Asurini do Xingu and Gavião peoples, similar to or even higher than the national averages. Conclusion: Different stages of nutritional transition were identified in the indigenous peoples analyzed, despite apparently having been subjected to the same environmental pressures that shaped their nutritional profile in recent decades, which may indicate different genetic susceptibilities to nutritional changes. The evidence shown in this study strongly suggests the need to investigate in greater depth the genetic and environmental factors associated with the nutritional profile of Brazilian indigenous peoples, with assessment of diet, physical activity and sociodemographic and socioeconomic variables that enable the development of appropriate prevention and monitoring measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Introduction The fundamental transformation of food systems and retail environments in low-income countries is influencing consumers' food choices and dietary habits in unfavourable directions through the consumption of highly processed, energy-dense foods, predominantly manufactured by multinational food corporations. This study aims to identify the principal factors driving consumers' preference for multinational foods over local foods in the urban Accra region of Ghana. Method This cross-sectional survey involving a random sample of 200 consumers conducted in March/April 2023 using interviewer-administered questionnaires employed a maximum difference scaling approach to investigate the drivers of urban Ghanaian consumer food choices for multinational food corporations' products over local foods. The maximum difference scaling modelling analysis utilized in this study identifies the primary drivers of multinational food corporations' product preferences and the associated trade-offs. Result The study discovered that food quality and safe packaging, perceived healthiness, taste and flavour, and nutritional value were the most significant factors driving consumer preference for multinational food corporations' products over local foods in Ghana. The criterion food quality and safe packaging had the significantly highest utility than all other attributes in terms of consumer preference for products/meals from multinational food corporations over local foods. Conclusion The results of this study provide significant contributions to the existing body of research, as previous studies have not identified these factors as primary drivers of multinational food products. Public health authorities and nutritionists can use the study's findings to implement targeted quality assurance measures in local markets and to address the drivers in health education campaigns.

ABSTRACTAmazonian Indigenous Peoples are undergoing drastic changes in their ways of life including the quality and availability of food and its impact on their health and well-being. Indigenous populations have their own perspectives and interpretations of dietary changes unfolding in their communities. Based on in-depth interviews, observations and validation workshops we explored the way Awajún describe and problematise the concept of healthy and unhealthy food in the context of the nutrition transition. We learn that the characteristics of ‘good food' are informed by their capacity to give strength, protect health and enable them to be hardworking people. On the contrary, food that comes from the city weakens the body and may result in health problems. For the Awajún, chicken with hormones, fish preserved in cans, and powdered milk negatively affect their health. We argue that the dichotomy ‘healthy' and ‘unhealthy’ used to classify food provides information not only about Indigenous conceptualisations of health and die, but is also a critique of broader structural processes affecting their well-being. The terms, explanations and idioms used by the Awajún to talk about food, provide an insight into Indigenous perspectives and knowledge key to informing global health interventions in culturally appropriate ways.

Summary: Background: Newly industrialized countries like Thailand have been influenced by globalization, westernization, and urbanization over the last decades, leading to changes in dietary habits as well as food production. Consequences of these changes include rising non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and environmental degradation, which are defined as the leading global challenges today. The objectives of this study are to identify Thailand's dietary changes, considering health and sustainability aspects, and to determine correlations between these changes and NCD cases as well as environmental impacts (GHG emissions, land-, nitrogen-, phosphorus-use). In this way, diet-related adjustments can be identified to promote planetary and human health. Methods: In this longitudinal ecological study, relative differences between the average food consumption in Thailand and the reference values of a healthy and sustainable diet, the Planetary Health Diet (PHD), were calculated. Furthermore, a bivariate correlation analysis was conducted, using data, based on Food and Agriculture Organization's (FAO's) data, results from the Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD), and PHD's reference values. Findings: The consumption quantities of meat, eggs, saturated oils, and sugar increased significantly since 1961. The food groups, that have exceeded PHD's upper reference values, include sugar (+452%), red meat (+220%), grains (+143%), saturated oils (+20%) and eggs (+19%), while vegetables (–63%), and unsaturated oils (–61%) have fallen below PHD’s lower limits. Concerning the bivariate correlation analyses, all investigated variables show significant correlations. The most significant correlations were found in NCD cases (r = 0.903, 95% CI 0.804–0.953), nitrogen use (r = 0.872, 95% CI 0.794–0.922), and land use (r = 0.870, 95% CI 0.791–0.921), followed by phosphorus use (r = 0.832, 95% CI 0.733–0.897), and green-house gas (GHG) emissions (r = 0.479, 95% CI 0.15–0.712). Interpretation: The results show, that the determined differences of unhealthy or unsustainable food groups have increased concurrently with NCD cases and environmental impacts over the last decades in Thailand. A shift towards a reduced intake of sugar, red meat, grains, saturated oils and eggs along with an increase in vegetables and unsaturated oils, might support environmental and human health. Funding: None.

Introduction: The fundamental transformation of food systems and retail environments in low-income countries is influencing consumers' food choices and dietary habits in unfavourable directions through the consumption of highly processed, energy-dense foods, predominantly manufactured by multinational food corporations. This study aims to identify the principal factors driving consumers' preference for multinational foods over local foods in the urban Accra region of Ghana. Method: This cross-sectional survey involving a random sample of 200 consumers conducted in March/April 2023 using interviewer-administered questionnaires employed a maximum difference scaling approach to investigate the drivers of urban Ghanaian consumer food choices for multinational food corporations' products over local foods. The maximum difference scaling modelling analysis utilized in this study identifies the primary drivers of multinational food corporations' product preferences and the associated trade-offs. Result: The study discovered that food quality and safe packaging, perceived healthiness, taste and flavour, and nutritional value were the most significant factors driving consumer preference for multinational food corporations' products over local foods in Ghana. The criterion food quality and safe packaging had the significantly highest utility than all other attributes in terms of consumer preference for products/meals from multinational food corporations over local foods. Conclusion: The results of this study provide significant contributions to the existing body of research, as previous studies have not identified these factors as primary drivers of multinational food products. Public health authorities and nutritionists can use the study's findings to implement targeted quality assurance measures in local markets and to address the drivers in health education campaigns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Underweight and obesity are associated with adverse health outcomes throughout the life course. We estimated the individual and combined prevalence of underweight or thinness and obesity, and their changes, from 1990 to 2022 for adults and school-aged children and adolescents in 200 countries and territories. We used data from 3663 population-based studies with 222 million participants that measured height and weight in representative samples of the general population. We used a Bayesian hierarchical model to estimate trends in the prevalence of different BMI categories, separately for adults (age ≥20 years) and school-aged children and adolescents (age 5–19 years), from 1990 to 2022 for 200 countries and territories. For adults, we report the individual and combined prevalence of underweight (BMI <18·5 kg/m2) and obesity (BMI ≥30 kg/m2). For school-aged children and adolescents, we report thinness (BMI <2 SD below the median of the WHO growth reference) and obesity (BMI >2 SD above the median). From 1990 to 2022, the combined prevalence of underweight and obesity in adults decreased in 11 countries (6%) for women and 17 (9%) for men with a posterior probability of at least 0·80 that the observed changes were true decreases. The combined prevalence increased in 162 countries (81%) for women and 140 countries (70%) for men with a posterior probability of at least 0·80. In 2022, the combined prevalence of underweight and obesity was highest in island nations in the Caribbean and Polynesia and Micronesia, and countries in the Middle East and north Africa. Obesity prevalence was higher than underweight with posterior probability of at least 0·80 in 177 countries (89%) for women and 145 (73%) for men in 2022, whereas the converse was true in 16 countries (8%) for women, and 39 (20%) for men. From 1990 to 2022, the combined prevalence of thinness and obesity decreased among girls in five countries (3%) and among boys in 15 countries (8%) with a posterior probability of at least 0·80, and increased among girls in 140 countries (70%) and boys in 137 countries (69%) with a posterior probability of at least 0·80. The countries with highest combined prevalence of thinness and obesity in school-aged children and adolescents in 2022 were in Polynesia and Micronesia and the Caribbean for both sexes, and Chile and Qatar for boys. Combined prevalence was also high in some countries in south Asia, such as India and Pakistan, where thinness remained prevalent despite having declined. In 2022, obesity in school-aged children and adolescents was more prevalent than thinness with a posterior probability of at least 0·80 among girls in 133 countries (67%) and boys in 125 countries (63%), whereas the converse was true in 35 countries (18%) and 42 countries (21%), respectively. In almost all countries for both adults and school-aged children and adolescents, the increases in double burden were driven by increases in obesity, and decreases in double burden by declining underweight or thinness. The combined burden of underweight and obesity has increased in most countries, driven by an increase in obesity, while underweight and thinness remain prevalent in south Asia and parts of Africa. A healthy nutrition transition that enhances access to nutritious foods is needed to address the remaining burden of underweight while curbing and reversing the increase in obesity. UK Medical Research Council, UK Research and Innovation (Research England), UK Research and Innovation (Innovate UK), and European Union. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The pathogenesis of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) worldwide is closely linked to the global nutrition transition. Functional foods play a crucial role in the prevention and control of NCDs, making them an active area of research. Fermentation, which involves the biotransformation of food, enhances its digestibility and nutritional properties by releasing bioactive molecules. The increased bioactivity during fermentation can be attributed to the liberation of compounds trapped in the food matrix, the generation of metabolites, or the metabolic products of the microorganisms involved. Additionally, fermented foods can serve as a vehicle to deliver live beneficial microbes to the gastrointestinal tract, promoting gut homeostasis. While most studies demonstrate an increase in bioactivity during fermentation, some investigations yield contradictory results, likely due to the complexity of the food matrix, microbial strains utilized, and environmental conditions during the fermentation process. Further research is needed to address conflicting findings, and epidemiological studies are recommended to examine the impact of fermented vegetables on human health. This review discusses changes in antioxidant, antidiabetic, antihyperlipidemic, anticancer, and antihypertensive activities of fermented vegetables, both in vitro and in vivo using animal models. Moreover, the drawbacks associated with vegetable fermentation, their management, and the future prospects of vegetable fermentation are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapid changes in the social and economic environment in the last few decades have resulted in a nutrition transition observed in many African countries, revealing large shifts in diet. Central to this evolution is the concept of homogenization of diet reflecting a notable trend toward increased uniformity in present-day food choices. As food changes are fundamental during the last generations, it is essential to collect oral narratives on foodways as long as older people can share their differentiated food knowledge from the past, and to study the impact of these changes in various African contexts, as well as the local reactions to these changes. This paper looks at the historical dynamics of what food consumption patterns was like in the past up to this present time in different regions of Senegal using different ethnographic methods. We argue that the diet of the present time has become more homogeneous thus affecting the pattern of food consumption options. Our findings showed that food consumption pattern over the last few decades has undergone changes due to the changing food production system. Moreover, the current households’ diets in the Senegalese villages are converging toward an increased reliance on vegetable oil and refined staple grains. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rising incomes across low-and middle-income countries (LMIC) lead to a lower consumption of starchy staples and create a growing demand for high-quality animal protein, an observation referred to as Bennett's law. This dietary shift from plant-sourced to animalsourced proteins has also been referred to as the LMIC protein transition. At this time, there are rising concerns that current livestock production is highly resource intensive and may not meet the growing global demand for high-quality protein. Alternative plant-based proteins, derived from new technologies and often fortified with micronutrients, are intended to close the LMIC nutrient gap. However, data from LMIC suggest that the income-driven selection of animal proteins is aspirational and varies by stage of economic development. Food balance sheets from higher-income countries indicate that meat consumption peaks only at very high incomes. Will plant-based alternative proteins satisfy the growing LMIC demand for animal-sourced foods, thereby negating Bennett's law? Current evidence suggests otherwise. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of metabolic syndrome (MetS) is on the rise in an increasingly urbanized world. The study aimed to review the association between urbanization and MetS in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). A comprehensive search of five databases (MEDLINE, Web of Science, Scopus, EMBASE, and CENTRAL) was performed in January 2022 and updated in October 2022. Peer-reviewed studies that met the eligibility selection criteria were included. Search terms were used for the main concepts which are MetS, dietary patterns, and urbanization in LMICs. Study selection was done in two stages and in duplicate. Random effects models were used to calculate the overall pooled prevalence and main study-level characteristics. Out of 9,773 identified studies, nineteen were included in the systematic review and meta-analysis. The studies were done on 313,644 participants (149,616 urban and 164,028 rural). The pooled risk ratio (RR, 95% confidence interval) of MetS between urban and rural dwellers was RR = 1.24; 95%CI [1.15, 1.34] (I2 = 96.0%, P < 0.0001). A relatively higher prevalence of MetS among urban than rural residents has been observed, especially with the International Diabetes Federation criteria (RR = 1.54; 95%CI [1.21, 1.96]; I2 = 65.0%), and in the population in India (RR = 2.19; 95%CI = 1.24, 3.88, I2 = 85%). Overall, the role of dietary patterns in the development of MetS was inconsistent, and few studies showed a lower risk of MetS with adherence to recommended healthy dietary patterns. There was an association between urbanization and the high prevalence of MetS. Interventions and policies to reduce the risk of MetS are needed. • An association between urbanization and the prevalence of the metabolic syndrome. • Urbanization is linked with the high prevalence of the metabolic syndrome. • A link between urbanization and the prevalence of metabolic syndrome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), a gastrointestinal disease, is a global phenomenon correlated with industrialization. We propose that an evolutionary medicine approach is useful to understand this disease from an ultimate perspective and conducted a scoping literature review to synthesize the IBS literature within this framework. Our review suggests five potential evolutionary hypotheses for the cause of IBS, including (a) a dietary mismatch accompanying a nutritional transition, (b) an early hygienic life environment leading to the immune system and microbiotic changes, (c) an outcome of decreased physical activity, (d) a response to changes in environmental light–dark cycles, and (e) an artifact of an evolved fight or flight response. We find key limitations in the available data needed to understand early life, nutritional, and socioeconomic experiences that would allow us to understand evolutionarily relevant risk factors and identify a need for further empirical research to distinguish potential causes and test evolutionary hypotheses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amazonian Indigenous Peoples are undergoing drastic changes in their ways of life including the quality and availability of food and its impact on their health and well-being. Indigenous populations have their own perspectives and interpretations of dietary changes unfolding in their communities. Based on in-depth interviews, observations and validation workshops we explored the way Awajún describe and problematise the concept of healthy and unhealthy food in the context of the nutrition transition. We learn that the characteristics of ‘good food’ are informed by their capacity to give strength, protect health and enable them to be hardworking people. On the contrary, food that comes from the city weakens the body and may result in health problems. For the Awajún, chicken with hormones, fish preserved in cans, and powdered milk negatively affect their health. We argue that the dichotomy ‘healthy’ and ‘unhealthy’ used to classify food provides information not only about Indigenous conceptualisations of health and die, but is also a critique of broader structural processes affecting their well-being. The terms, explanations and idioms used by the Awajún to talk about food, provide an insight into Indigenous perspectives and knowledge key to informing global health interventions in culturally appropriate ways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In surgical diseases, obesity is a significant risk factor for wound infection, more surgical blood loss and a longer post-operative time and increased risk of venous thromboembolism due to impairment of cardiac, pulmonary, and immunological functions. Underweight patients are at more risk for post-operative complications, including long term mortality. We obtained data prospectively from 1540 patients attending General surgery OPD from October 2022-December 2022 in Victoria hospital. Height, weight, BMI was calculated after Detailed history and clinical examination is noted. we found that hernias and varicose veins were more common with the patients with more weight. Obese patients more tend to have hernias than normal weight patients. Most patients with breast lumps belong to obese grade 2 class. In developing countries like india, where there is a stage of nutritional transition particularly in urban areas, the problems of undernutrition and over-nutrition should be addressed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutrition and diet are key modifiable risk factors for the rising burden of non-communicable diseases like cardio-vascular diseases and diabetes in low- and middle- income countries (LMICs). The nutritional transition in dietary behaviours in LMICs has most likely contributed to this problem. Although traditionally assumed to be environmental, dietary choices are also genetically influenced. Twin study designs can be used to investigate the relative influence of genes and environment on nutrition intake, eating behaviours and associated psychological health. The overall aim of this project is to: provide proof-of-concept for the feasibility of using dietary (biomarker) data within the Children-of-Twin design in nutrition studies, develop laboratory skills and statistical genetic skills and establish a Sri Lankan-specific food composition database. Currently, a pilot study is being conducted with 304 individuals (38 Monozygotic twin pairs, 38 Dizygotic twin pairs and their male or female adult offspring). Questionnaire data on nutritional intake, eating behaviours, psychological well-being, physical health, and bio-specimens are being collected. A Sri Lankan-specific food composition database was developed, training sessions on macro and micro element analysis in biological samples and statistical genetics skills development were conducted and Community Engagement and Involvement programs were carried out in two districts of Sri Lanka. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Modernization leads to nutrition transition process, shifts eating behavior into a more modernized pattern that may increase the risk of non-communicable diseases (NCDs). Using the 2018 Indonesian Food Barometer (IFB) data, this study assessed the differences in eating behavior between metropolization levels among Indonesian adults. 1482 adults aged 18-64 in six provinces were involved. Eating behavior was defined by the number of eating events, food preparation, eating location, eating companion, and activity while eating. Metropolization level was defined based on the gross domestic regional product (GRDP), GRDP/capita, population size, population density, and non-agricultural worker proportion. Differences in each eating behavior dimension between metropolization levels were analyzed using the Chi-square test (p<0.05) and adjusted with sociodemographic factors using logistics regression. 83.9% of the subjects had =5 eating events/day and dominated by 4-5 eating events/day. 51.2% and 83.1% of the subjects cooked and ate at home frequently, indicating the practice of traditional eating. Meanwhile, the tendency towards modern dimension can be seen as the proportion of eating alone frequently and eating only less frequently were 60.3% and 67.9%, respectively. Eating behavior differed significantly (p<0.05) between metropolization levels, except for eating with company. Proportion of not cooking and eating away from home frequently increase as metropolization level increases (p<0.05) after adjusted with sociodemographic factors while eating alone and eating only showed no significant differences. Modern eating behavior tendency increases along with metropolization level. Improving living and working conditions in metropolitan areas is imperative to facilitate healthier eating behavior among the inhabitants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prevalence of non-communicable diseases still represents a public health concern in South Africa, of which eating habits are some of the main risk factors. A modern diet consisting of the consumption of highly processed foods high in fat, salt and caloric sweeteners and low in fibre is recognised as unhealthy. This study was conducted to assess the penchant of the population for these types of foods rather than traditional indigenous foods known to be healthier. This research was undertaken in the Gauteng region, which is the most urbanized province in the country. This study consisted of a quantitative research survey conducted in 2019 with 1527 participants (Asians, Black, Coloured, Indians and White) aged 18 and above who had lived in the province for at least two years. The results revealed that 30–40 % were neutral on the issue. Despite half (54.4 %) indicating that it was good to mix traditional and modern foods, a clear preference for modern food was noticed for 35.7 % of respondents, with 32.2 % reporting not being concerned that traditional foods have been replaced by modern foods. The traditional indigenous food consumption (TIFC) appeared to depend on monthly total household income, residential area, and settlement category. Participants with specific economic comfort consumed less. Race and number of people in the participants' households also significantly affected the TIFC (p

Abstract Objective: To examine trends in the intake of key food groups among Iranian adults between 2005 and 2016, overall, and according to sociodemographic characteristics. Design: Repeat cross-sectional data from the Iran-STEPwise approach to risk factor surveillance (Iran-WHO STEPS) 2005–2016 were analysed. Regression analyses were used to evaluate trends in the frequency of fruits, vegetables and fish intake and type of oil used over time. Interactions by sex, age and area of residence were examined. Setting: Iran. Participants: 225 221 Iranian adults. Results: The frequency of vegetables (β: −0·03; 95 % CI (−0·06, −0·00); P-trend = 0·030) and fish (β: −0·09; 95 % CI (−0·10, −0·08); P-trend < 0·001) intake and use of solid fat (OR: 0·70; 95 % CI (0·70, 0·72); P-trend < 0·001) declined, whilst the frequency of fruit intake (β-Coeff: 0·03, 95 % CI (0·01, 0·05); P-trend = 0·014) and liquid oil use (OR: 1·40; 95 % CI (1·3, 1·4); P-trend60 years) adults (P-interaction < 0·001), whilst declines in vegetable (P-interaction < 0·001) and fish intake (P-interaction = 0·001) were larger in older adults. The declining use of solid fat was strongest in middle-aged and older adults (P-interaction = 0·035), while the increasing use of liquid oil was strongest in rural areas (P-interaction = 0·011). Conclusions: During the nutrition transition, liquid oil use and the frequency of fruit intake rose, while the frequency of vegetables and fish intake declined. Nonetheless, the fatty acid composition and cooking methods are important considerations. The changes observed are concerning from a public health perspective and demonstrate the need for interventions and possible targets for tailored strategies.

Increasing obesity rates are an enduring concern for the health sector globally. By the beginning of the 21st century, neuroscientists began to assert that obesity is primarily a brain disorder. The resulting field of obesity neuroscience has become an influential lens through which to research the pathogenesis of diet-induced obesity, with important implications for both public health and bioethics. This historical analysis aims to trace the intellectual origins of the obesity neuroscience discipline by examining two historical events: the United States’ war on drugs, and the nutrition transition. Major historical milestones associated with each of these events are analyzed. Then, the convergence of these events is characterized, by an analysis of how this transformed neuroscience research on hunger. This analysis demonstrates how the US war on drugs discovered new neurobehavioral epistemologies, predominately around addiction, that were then grafted onto the existing neuroscience of hunger. The resulting analysis provides an illustrative explanation of the close epistemological relationship between obesity neuroscience and addiction.

Background: In the current scoping review, nutrition transition and its consequences in Iran have been reviewed, and relevant health improvement policies have been described. Methods: This was an analytical study which concerned demographic, economic and socio-political context, nutrition, dietary patterns and related metabolic syndrome, or their consequences among Iranian population in recent decades. Results: In the last decades, socio-economic problems increased food insecurity, and unhealthy diet has been common. The prevalence of obesity was higher in urban areas compared with rural areas. There was also a high prevalence of nutritional risk factors; food choices tended to be less healthy; high-fat food choices has been increased, and there was lower physical activity. The prevalence of non-communicable diseases and metabolic syndrome including hypertension and type 2 diabetes mellitus are progressively elevated. Conclusions: Urgent preventive strategies and policies by the government and healthcare community are essential. These strategies are necessary for promoting national health, increasing life expectancy, and decreasing metabolic syndrome, diet-related and lethal diseases including cardiovascular diseases, and diabetes. Corresponding Author:Mahdieh Abbasalizad-Farhangi View Orcid in Profile You can search for this author in PubMed Google Scholar Profile

Abstract Objective: To establish the relationship between the marketing strategies and nutritional quality of foods and beverages promoted in television food advertisements (TV ads) seen by Colombian child audiences overall and based on child gender and socio-economic strata (SES). Design: A quantitative content analysis of marketing appeals was combined with nutritional data of the food products advertised and matched with TV audience ratings data for each food and beverage ads for Colombian children between 4 and 11 years. Setting: All beverages and foods TV ads cable or over-the-air channels in Colombia in 2017. Participants: N/A. Results: Compared with rational appeals (e.g. freshness, health or nutrition messages), emotional appeals (referencing or depicting human senses or emotions, e.g. using cartoons to suggest fun) were more frequently used in the TV ads most viewed by Colombian children. Female children and children in lower SES tended to be more exposed to emotional appeals in TV ads than their male or higher SES counterparts. Furthermore, TV ads using more emotional appeals tended to be for products high in problematic nutrients. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the need to implement statutory measures to reduce the deleterious effect of food marketing on children.

Abstract Background Sub-Saharan African populations undergo a nutrition transition towards diets associated with increased risk for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. For targeted prevention, we aimed to characterize dietary patterns and determine their sociodemographic factors of adherence. Methods We recruited 1,018 adults aged > = 25 years from two formal and three informal settlements within the Health and Demographic Surveillance System, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, between February and April 2021. In a cross-sectional sample, a culture-specific food-propensity questionnaire with 134 food items and a sociodemographic questionnaire were used to collect the data. Exploratory dietary patterns were derived using principal component analysis, and sociodemographic factors of adherence were calculated using multivariable linear regression models. Results In this study population (median age: 42 years, interquartile range 21 years; male: 35.7%), the diet relied on starchy foods and other plant-based staples with rare consumption of animal-based products. We identified three dietary patterns, explaining 10.2%, 9.8%, and 8.9% of variation in food intake, respectively: a meat and egg-based pattern associated with younger age, male sex, better education, and economic situation; a fish-based pattern prevailed among women, higher educational levels, and better economic situation; and a starchy food-based was associated with younger age and sharing a home with other adults. Conclusions This study population is at an early stage of the nutrition transition and shows low intakes of health-beneficial food groups. Yet, progress along the nutrition transition varies according to age, educational attainment, and economic status. Particularly, younger and well-off people seem to adhere more strongly to diets high in animal-based products. These findings can inform strategies in public health nutrition for sub-Saharan African populations.

Over the past decades, China has been undergoing rapid economic growth, which may have significantly influenced the dietary patterns and health status of the Chinese population. Our study aimed to assess the associations of potential macronutrient trajectory patterns with chronic diseases and all-cause mortality using the latent class trajectory model (LCTM) and the longitudinal data of the China Health and Nutrition Survey obtained between 1991 and 2015. A 24-hour diet recall was used to assess the dietary intake. The Poisson regression model was employed to investigate the correlations between trajectory patterns and chronic diseases and all-cause mortality. A total of 8115 participants were included in the final analysis. We explored four and three trajectory patterns for male and female populations, respectively. We found that a decreasing very high-carbohydrate trajectory together with a U-shape protein trajectory was associated with a higher risk of diabetes in the male population (odds ratio (OR): 2.23; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.31–3.77). A similar pattern for moderate protein intake was also associated with the risk of diabetes in the female population (OR: 1.82; 95% CI: 1.18–2.79). In addition, we show that a decreasing low-carbohydrate trajectory and an increasing high-fat trajectory were associated with a lower risk of all-cause mortality (OR: 0.76; 95% CI: 0.60–0.96) and a higher risk of obesity (OR: 1.24; 95% CI: 1.05–1.47) in males. Our results shed light on some salient nutritional problems in China, particularly the dual challenges of undernutrition and overnutrition.

Summary: Background: Energy balance‐related behaviours (EBRBs), that is, dietary intake, screen, outdoor play and sleep, tend to combine into 'lifestyle patterns', with potential synergistic influences on health. To date, studies addressing this theme mainly focused on school children and rarely accounted for sleep, with a cross‐country perspective. Objectives: We aimed at comparing lifestyle patterns among preschool‐aged children across Europe, their associations with socio‐demographic factors and their links with body mass index (BMI). Methods: Harmonized data on 2–5‐year‐olds participating in nine European birth cohorts from the EU Child Cohort Network were used (EBRBs, socio‐demographics and anthropometrics). Principal component analysis and multivariable linear and logistic regressions were performed. Results: The most consistent pattern identified across cohorts was defined by at least three of the following EBRBs: discretionary consumption, high screen time, low outdoor play time and low sleep duration. Consistently, children from low‐income households and born to mothers with low education level had higher scores on this pattern compared to their socioeconomically advantaged counterparts. Furthermore, it was associated with higher BMI z‐scores in the Spanish and Italian cohorts (β = 0.06, 95% CI = [0.02; 0.10], both studies). Conclusion: These findings may be valuable in informing early multi‐behavioural interventions aimed at reducing social inequalities in health at a European scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To examine trends in the intake of key food groups among Iranian adults between 2005 and 2016, overall, and according to sociodemographic characteristics. Design: Repeat cross-sectional data from the Iran-STEPwise approach to risk factor surveillance (Iran-WHO STEPS) 2005–2016 were analysed. Regression analyses were used to evaluate trends in the frequency of fruits, vegetables and fish intake and type of oil used over time. Interactions by sex, age and area of residence were examined. Setting: Iran. Participants: 225 221 Iranian adults. Results: The frequency of vegetables (β : −0·03; 95 % CI (−0·06, −0·00); P -trend = 0·030) and fish (β : −0·09; 95 % CI (−0·10, −0·08); P -trend < 0·001) intake and use of solid fat (OR: 0·70; 95 % CI (0·70, 0·72); P -trend < 0·001) declined, whilst the frequency of fruit intake (β -Coeff: 0·03, 95 % CI (0·01, 0·05); P -trend = 0·014) and liquid oil use (OR: 1·40; 95 % CI (1·3, 1·4); P -trend<0·001) rose. Rising trends in fruit intake were larger in mid-aged (40–60 years) and older (>60 years) adults (P -interaction < 0·001), whilst declines in vegetable (P -interaction < 0·001) and fish intake (P -interaction = 0·001) were larger in older adults. The declining use of solid fat was strongest in middle-aged and older adults (P -interaction = 0·035), while the increasing use of liquid oil was strongest in rural areas (P -interaction = 0·011). Conclusions: During the nutrition transition, liquid oil use and the frequency of fruit intake rose, while the frequency of vegetables and fish intake declined. Nonetheless, the fatty acid composition and cooking methods are important considerations. The changes observed are concerning from a public health perspective and demonstrate the need for interventions and possible targets for tailored strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite growing evidence on the short-term deleterious effects of severe acute malnutrition (SAM) in childhood on hematopoiesis, little is known about the long-term hematological effects of SAM in low-income countries (LICs). Our study explored the association between childhood SAM and hematological disorders in adults 11 to 30 years after post-SAM nutritional rehabilitation. Methods: This follow up study investigated 97 adults (mean age 32 years) treated for SAM during childhood in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) between 1988 and 2007. Participants were compared to 97 aged- and sex-matched adult controls living in the same community with no history of SAM. Outcomes of interest were hematological characteristics and disorders in adulthood, assessed by various biological markers. Logistic and linear regression models were used to estimate the association between SAM in childhood and risk of hematological abnormalities. Results: Compared to the unexposed, the exposed had higher mean white blood cells (/μl) [+ 840 (179 to 1501), p = 0.013], neutrophils [+ 504 (83 to 925), p = 0.019] and platelets (*103) [11.9 (8.1 to 17.9), p = 0.038] even after adjustment for food consumption in adulthood. No difference was observed in red blood cells (RBC), hemoglobin and erythrocytes parameters. With regard to the risk of hematological disorders, in contrast to the unexposed, exposed subjects had a risk of leukocytosis approximately three times higher [adjusted OR (95% CI): 2.98 (1.01 to 8.79), p = 0.048]. No difference was observed in terms of anemia, leukopenia, increased platelets and thrombocytopenia between the 2 groups. Conclusion: Adults with a history of SAM in childhood have hematological characteristics that would be markers associated with chronic low-grade inflammatory or infectious diseases in an environment with no nutritional transition. Larger cohort studies with bone marrow analyses could provide further understanding of the impact of SAM on the overall hematological profile in adult life. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: By 2050, approximately 68% of the global population will live in cities, but nutrition data on urban populations of low- and middle-income countries are scarce. Fast growing secondary cities, combining characteristics and hurdles of urban and rural settings, are hotspots for the double burden of malnutrition. The Nutrition in City Ecosystems (NICE) project focuses on 6 secondary cities in Bangladesh, Kenya and Rwanda, to improve health and nutrition, and reduce poverty. To assess the baseline situation and guide future interventions, food insecurity, dietary diversity, nutrition status, and food production and purchasing patterns were explored. Methods: In a cross-sectional study design, data were collected from urban and peri-urban households of Dinajpur and Rangpur in Bangladesh, Bungoma and Busia in Kenya, and Rubavu and Rusizi in Rwanda. Approximately 1200 households, in neighborhoods prone to malnutrition, were involved from April to June 2021. We assessed Household Food Insecurity Access Score (HFIAS), both current and before COVID-19, Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS), Minimum Dietary Diversity for Women (MDD-W), anthropometric measurements, household and socioeconomic information, and questions related to food production and consumer behavior. Further we collected secondary data on low birthweight and anemia during pregnancy. Results: All cities experienced a substantial increase in food insecurity during the COVID-19 pandemic. Stunting rates in children under 5 years varied among the cities and ranged from 7.8% in Busia to 46.6% in Rubavu, while half of adult women were overweight (between 42.1% in Rusizi and 55.8% in Bungoma). Furthermore, many women did not consume an adequately diverse diet (MDD-W < 5 for 29.3% in Bangladesh, 47.5% in Kenya, and 67.0% in Rwanda), however many of the urban and peri-urban households were engaged in farming (58–78%). Conclusions: The double burden of malnutrition is high in secondary cities and the COVID-19 pandemic has exacerbated levels of food insecurity. Demand for, and access to, an affordable healthy diverse diet that comprises local, nutritious, and agroecologically produced foods present a pathway for overcoming the complex challenges of malnutrition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To establish the relationship between the marketing strategies and nutritional quality of foods and beverages promoted in television food advertisements (TV ads) seen by Colombian child audiences overall and based on child gender and socio-economic strata (SES). Design: A quantitative content analysis of marketing appeals was combined with nutritional data of the food products advertised and matched with TV audience ratings data for each food and beverage ads for Colombian children between 4 and 11 years. Setting: All beverages and foods TV ads cable or over-the-air channels in Colombia in 2017. Participants: N/A. Results: Compared with rational appeals (e.g. freshness, health or nutrition messages), emotional appeals (referencing or depicting human senses or emotions, e.g. using cartoons to suggest fun) were more frequently used in the TV ads most viewed by Colombian children. Female children and children in lower SES tended to be more exposed to emotional appeals in TV ads than their male or higher SES counterparts. Furthermore, TV ads using more emotional appeals tended to be for products high in problematic nutrients. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the need to implement statutory measures to reduce the deleterious effect of food marketing on children. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High energy intake combined with low physical activity generates positive energy balance, which, when maintained, favours obesity, a highly prevalent morbidity linked to development of non-communicable chronic diseases, including chronic kidney disease (CKD). Among many factors contributing to disproportionately high energy intakes, and thereby to the obesity epidemic, the type and degree of food processing play an important role. Ultraprocessed foods (UPFs) are industrialized and quite often high-energy-dense products with added sugar, salt, unhealthy fats and food additives formulated to be palatable or hyperpalatable. UPFs can trigger an addictive eating behaviour and is typically characterized by an increase in energy intake. Furthermore, high consumption of UPFs, a hallmark of a Western diet, results in diets with poor quality. A high UPF intake is associated with higher risk for CKD. In addition, UPF consumption by patients with CKD is likely to predispose and/or to exacerbate uraemic metabolic derangements, such as insulin resistance, metabolic acidosis, hypertension, dysbiosis, hyperkalaemia and hyperphosphatemia. Global sales of UPFs per capita increased in all continents in recent decades. This is an important factor responsible for the nutrition transition, with home-made meals being replaced by ready-to-eat products. In this review we discuss the potential risk of UPFs in activating hedonic eating and their main implications for health, especially for kidney health and metabolic complications of CKD. We also present various aspects of consequences of UPFs on planetary health and discuss future directions for research to bring awareness of the harms of UPFs within the CKD scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human food foraging in community forests offers extensive and expandable sources of food and high-quality nutrition that support chronic disease prevention and management and are underrepresented in US diets. Despite severe gaps in non-commercial "wild food" data, research in Syracuse, NY, identified substantial amounts of five key antioxidant phytochemicals in locally available, forageable foods with the potential to augment local dietary diversity and quality. Findings endorse the need for micro- and macro-nutrient research on an expanded range of forageable foods, community nutrition education on those foods, an expanded study on antioxidant phytochemical function, and the inclusion of forageables in the food system definition. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Increasing obesity rates are an enduring concern for the health sector globally. By the beginning of the 21st century, neuroscientists began to assert that obesity is primarily a brain disorder. The resulting field of obesity neuroscience has become an influential lens through which to research the pathogenesis of diet-induced obesity, with important implications for both public health and bioethics. This historical analysis aims to trace the intellectual origins of the obesity neuroscience discipline by examining two historical events: the United States’ war on drugs, and the nutrition transition. Major historical milestones associated with each of these events are analyzed. Then, the convergence of these events is characterized, by an analysis of how this transformed neuroscience research on hunger. This analysis demonstrates how the US war on drugs discovered new neurobehavioral epistemologies, predominately around addiction, that were then grafted onto the existing neuroscience of hunger. The resulting analysis provides an illustrative explanation of the close epistemological relationship between obesity neuroscience and addiction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) has been identified in multiple mammalian species as a marker of energetic stress that has the potential to negatively impact nutritional and reproductive performance. However, the role of FGF21 in regulating energetic and reproductive physiology of cattle selected for meat production has yet to be characterized. Within this report, we have conducted a comprehensive evaluation of the role FGF21 plays in female beef cattle throughout the production process. We have revealed that FGF21 plays an expansive role in beef cattle during various developmental and physiological processes. Moreover, this is the only work that has investigated the role of FGF21 in pubertal development, mammary secretions, or postpartum return to reproductive cycles in beef cattle—all other reports have been performed in dairy cattle breeds. In conclusion, FGF21 plays a role in physiological functions in beef cattle that can be applied to advance the understanding of basic scientific processes governing the nutritional regulation of reproductive function but also provides a novel means for beef cattle producers to select parameters of financial interest. Fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) has been identified in multiple mammalian species as a molecular marker of energy metabolism while also providing negative feedback to the gonads. However, the role of FGF21 in regulating the energetic and reproductive physiology of beef heifers and cows has yet to be characterized. Herein, we investigated the temporal concentrations of FGF21 in female beef cattle from the prepubertal period to early lactation. Circulating concentrations of FGF21, non-esterified fatty acids, plasma urea nitrogen, glucose, and progesterone were assessed. Ultrasonography was employed to determine the onset of puberty and resumption of postpartum ovarian cyclicity as well as to measure backfat thickness. Finally, cows and calves underwent the weigh-suckle-weigh technique to estimate rate of milk production. We have revealed that FGF21 has an expansive role in the physiology of female beef cattle, including pubertal onset, adaptation to nutritional transition, rate of body weight gain, circulating markers of metabolism, and rate of milk production. In conclusion, FGF21 plays a role in physiological functions in beef cattle that can be applied to advance the understanding of basic scientific processes governing the nutritional regulation of reproductive function but also provides a novel means for beef cattle producers to select parameters of financial interest. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Sub-Saharan African populations undergo a nutrition transition towards diets associated with increased risk for metabolic and cardiovascular diseases. For targeted prevention, we aimed to characterize dietary patterns and determine their sociodemographic factors of adherence. Methods: We recruited 1,018 adults aged > = 25 years from two formal and three informal settlements within the Health and Demographic Surveillance System, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso, between February and April 2021. In a cross-sectional sample, a culture-specific food-propensity questionnaire with 134 food items and a sociodemographic questionnaire were used to collect the data. Exploratory dietary patterns were derived using principal component analysis, and sociodemographic factors of adherence were calculated using multivariable linear regression models. Results: In this study population (median age: 42 years, interquartile range 21 years; male: 35.7%), the diet relied on starchy foods and other plant-based staples with rare consumption of animal-based products. We identified three dietary patterns, explaining 10.2%, 9.8%, and 8.9% of variation in food intake, respectively: a meat and egg-based pattern associated with younger age, male sex, better education, and economic situation; a fish-based pattern prevailed among women, higher educational levels, and better economic situation; and a starchy food-based was associated with younger age and sharing a home with other adults. Conclusions: This study population is at an early stage of the nutrition transition and shows low intakes of health-beneficial food groups. Yet, progress along the nutrition transition varies according to age, educational attainment, and economic status. Particularly, younger and well-off people seem to adhere more strongly to diets high in animal-based products. These findings can inform strategies in public health nutrition for sub-Saharan African populations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The impact of diets high in saturated fatty acids in individuals who have undergone maternal protein restriction is not clear. Here, we tested the hypothesis that a saturated fatty acid–enriched hyperlipidic diet (HL) affects liver expression of genes of the redox balance and inflammatory pathway in postweaning rat offspring subjected to maternal protein restriction. Pregnant Wistar rats received either a control (C; 19% protein) or low protein (LP; 8% protein) diet during gestation and lactation. At weaning, pups received either C or HL diets up to 90 days of life. The LP+HL group showed an upregulation of transcription of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ (+48%) and peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor γ coactivator α (+96%) compared with the LP+C group (P <.05), respectively. Similarly, gene expression of the markers of inflammation, nuclear factor-kappa B1 (+194%) and tumor necrosis factor-α (+192%), was enhanced (P <.05). Although other antioxidant enzymes were not modified in gene expression, catalase (CAT) was 66% higher in LP+HL compared with LP+C. In contrast, CAT protein content in the liver was 50% lower in LP groups compared with C, and superoxide dismutase 2 (SOD2) was twice as high in LP groups compared with C. Postweaning HL after maternal protein restriction induces hepatic metabolic adaptation characterized by enhanced oxidative stress, unbalanced expression in the antioxidant enzymes SOD1, SOD2 and CAT, and activation of inflammatory pathways but does not impact circulating markers of lipid metabolism and liver function. Wistar rats subjected to low protein (LP) diet during gestation and lactation showed dysfunction in liver catalase (CAT) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) antioxidant enzymes with enhanced lipid and protein peroxidations. However, there were no changes in inflammation and serum markers in relation to the control group (C). Following a postweaning nutrition transition to hyperlipidic (HL) diet, these animals (LP-HL) had worse antioxidant control and elicited liver inflammation pathways at 90 days old. *Illustrative colors of the rats only. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A global transition towards diets increasingly dominated by ultra‐processed foods (UPFs) has occurred in recent decades to the detriment of public health and the environment. This study aimed to examine long‐term trends in the structure and market dynamics of the global UPF manufacturing industry as part of broader efforts to understand the drivers of this transition. Using diverse methods, metrics and data sources, we examined several dimensions (e.g., industry concentration and profitability) according to an adapted structure–conduct–performance model. We found that the global UPF manufacturing industry has evolved to become a major component of global food systems, with its longstanding dominant corporations becoming some of the system's largest accumulators of profit and distributors of capital. It follows that reversing the global UPF dietary transition will require structural and regulatory changes to ensure that population diets, and food systems more broadly, are not subordinated to the interests of powerful for‐profit business corporations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Globally, the literature tends to emphasize negative associations between socioeconomic status (SES) and bodyweight in countries improving their economic development. However, little is known about the social distribution of obesity in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA) where economic growth has been highly heterogeneous the last decades. This paper reviews an exhaustive set of recent empirical studies examining its association in low‐income and lower‐middle‐income countries in SSA. Although there is evidence of a positive association between SES and obesity in low‐income countries, we found mixed associations in lower‐middle‐income countries, potentially providing evidence of a social reversal of the obesity burden. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The literature about the nutrition transition has been discussing the existence of different paths. The case of Uruguay is introduced as a different case of transition. We focus on the period 1900–70 when the country shifted from an agricultural-based economy to industrialisation through import substitution. We estimate the annual historical time series of per capita consumption of the main food items in the Uruguayan diet using the commodity flow approach complemented by the FAO's Food Balance Sheets methodology. We identify the major trends in food consumption and discuss the main explanatory factors. We find that Uruguay showed a transition from a very high animal food-based diet towards a more diversified pattern with more milk, cereals, and vegetables. On top of that, we sustain that not only income is important to explain the major shifts in food diet, but also preferences, changes in relative prices, and productivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Childhood overweight and obesity are rapidly increasing in urban Vietnam. Dietary patterns are understudied for their association with obesity risk in these children, and it is unclear which parental and societal factors should be targeted in prevention efforts. The study assessed child characteristics, dietary patterns, parental and societal factors for associations with childhood overweight and obesity status in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. A sample of 221 children aged 9–11 years was randomly selected from four Ho Chi Minh City primary schools. Weight, height and waist circumference were measured using standardized methods. Three 24‐h dietary recalls were collected from 124 children, which were used to assess dietary patterns using principal component analysis (PCA). Parents completed a questionnaire about child, parental and societal factors. The overall prevalence of obesity was 31.7% and of combined overweight and obesity 59.3%. Three main dietary patterns from 10 food groups were identified by PCA: traditional (grains, vegetables, meat and meat alternatives), discretionary (snacks and sweetened beverages), and industrialized (fast food and processed meat). Children with higher discretionary diet scores had higher odds of being overweight. Being a boy, screen time over 2 h/day, parental underestimation of child weight status, father's obesity, and household income in the lowest quintile were positively associated with childhood obesity. Future intervention programmes in Vietnam need to consider targeting children's unhealthy diets and parental perceptions of child weight status, as well as focusing on upstream approaches that reduce inequities contributing to childhood obesity and concomitant dietary patterns.