Consumption Of Beverages Research Articles

Promoting water consumption among children through a social network intervention: a cluster randomized controlled trial on a Caribbean island

Abstract Aim This study examined the effect of the evidence-based adapted social network intervention named Kies Awa (translation: Choose Water) on children’s water and sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) consumption. It also examined the moderating role of children’s descriptive and injunctive norms of water and SSB consumption on the intervention’s effect. Subject and methods We conducted a cluster randomized control trial (RCT) where schools were randomized to one of two clusters: the intervention group (IG; Kies Awa intervention; 156 participants; M = 11.08, SD = 1.00; 53.8% girls) or the control group (CG; no intervention; 144 participants; M = 11.32, SD = 0.96; 52.8% girls). The primary outcome measure was water consumption and the secondary outcome was SSB consumption. Results Linear mixed modeling analyses showed that water consumption increased significantly more among IG participants than in the CG (β = 0.141; p = 0.015). The effect on SSB consumption was moderated by perceived injunctive norms, which refer to social disapproval of consuming SSBs. Specifically, the intervention reduced SSB consumption for participants reporting high levels of injunctive norms (β = -0.052; p = 0.037). Conclusion These findings suggest that Kies Awa, an evidence-based adapted intervention, could be implemented in other Caribbean islands to improve children’s water consumption. This approach could be integrated into school health programs, contributing to public health. These findings may help achieve the United Nations’ goal of ensuring healthy lives for all children, even in under-researched world regions. Clinical Trial Registration: Main ID number: NL-OMON26157, preregistration date 2018-12-20. https://trialsearch.who.int/Trial2.aspx?TrialID=NL-OMON26157.

Sugar-sweetened beverages, relative grip strength, and psychological symptoms among rural adolescents in western China: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe increasing prevalence of psychological symptoms in adolescents has become an important problem faced by all countries in the world. The increased sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB) consumption and the decreased muscle strength had a serious negative impact on adolescent health. However, previous studies have mainly focused on adolescents in developed countries and fewer studies have been conducted in developing countries, especially in rural areas of western China. This study aims to explore the association of sugar-sweetened beverages consumption, and relative grip strength with psychological symptoms among rural adolescents in western China.MethodsIn this study, 11,018 adolescents aged 13–18 years from rural areas of Xinjiang and Tibet in western China were recruited using stratified randomized whole-cluster sampling in 2023. The participants were assessed for sugar-sweetened beverages consumption, relative grip strength, and psychological symptoms. Non-parametric tests, t-tests, logistic regression analyses, and ordered logistic regression analyses of generalized linear models were used to analyze the associations of sugar-sweetened beverage consumption and relative grip strength with psychological symptoms in adolescents.ResultsThe proportions of adolescents with sugar-sweetened beverages consumption of <1 times/week, 2–4 times/week, and >4 times/week in rural areas of western China were 34.6, 52.7, and 12.7%, respectively. The prevalence of adolescents’ emotional problems, behavioral problems, social adjustment difficulties, and psychological symptoms were 28.7, 27.0, 20.2, and 22.1%, respectively. The mean and standard deviation of grip strength among adolescents was assessed as (32.52 ± 10.13) kg and the relative grip strength was (0.60 ± 0.16) in rural areas of western China. Taking participants with sugar-sweetened beverages consumption <1 times/week group and relative grip strength at the fourth quartile as the reference, participants with SSB consumption >4 times/week and relative grip strength at the first quartile had the highest risk (OR = 2.77, 95% CI: 2.09–3.67, p < 0.001) of psychological symptoms.ConclusionElevated sugar-sweetened beverages consumption and decreased relative grip strength were associated with an increased prevalence of psychological symptoms. Prospective cohort studies are needed in the future to explore the causal relationships among SSB consumption, muscle strength, and psychological symptoms.

Association between body esteem and sugar-sweetened beverage intake among Chinese undergraduate students: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundHigh intake of sugar-sweetened beverages has been linked to a range of physical, psychological, and emotional issues. Although there were various factors influencing sugar-sweetened beverage intake, the relationship between body esteem and sugar-sweetened beverage intake remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the association between three dimensions of body esteem (body esteem-appearance, body esteem-attribution, and body esteem-weight) and the likelihood of high sugar-sweetened beverage intake.MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among undergraduate students at Nanjing University of Chinese Medicine. Logistic regression analyses were used to assess the association between the three dimensions of body esteem and the risk of high sugar-sweetened beverage intake. Additionally, restricted cubic splines and subgroup analyses were implemented to further explore the associations.ResultsA total of 969 participants were included in the study, with 771 females (79.6%). The mean age of the participants was 20.07 years (standard deviation [SD] = 1.65). After adjusting for covariates, body esteem-appearance was found to be negatively associated with high sugar-sweetened beverage intake (OR = 0.962, 95% CI = 0.935–0.989, p = 0.007), while body esteem-attribution was positively associated with high sugar-sweetened beverage intake (OR = 1.091, 95% CI = 1.046–1.139, p < 0.001). However, no significant association was found between body esteem-weight and high sugar-sweetened beverage intake (p = 0.781). Restricted cubic spline plots showed no non-linear associations between any dimensions of body esteem and the risk of high sugar-sweetened beverage intake (p-nonlinear was 0.912, 0.225, 0.109, respectively). Subgroup analyses revealed no significant interactions.ConclusionThese findings underscored the significance of targeted health promotion strategies and provided references for educational institutions or governmental bodies to steer undergraduate beverage consumption toward healthier patterns.

Examining the Carbon Footprint of Conferences with an Emphasis on Energy Consumption and Catering

This research study presents a comparison of an in-person and an online conference in terms of environmental impact and energy efficiency. The main goal of our research was to prepare a complete life cycle assessment of a two-day (15-h), 200-participant in-person and online conference based on different impact assessment methods. Life cycle assessments focus on the numerical determination of the decarbonization of conference consumption (lunch, dinner, food and beverage consumption during breaks), conference organization (discussions, correspondence, abstract booklet, registration package), travel, and infrastructure. The meals were examined by connecting the stages of preparation, cooking, consumption and end-of-life cycle as a cradle-to-grave analysis. We paid particular attention to the calculation of energy consumption. After carbon footprint comparisons, the areas with the highest impacts with pie diagrams were identified. Lastly, a SWOT chart and an SAP-LAP analysis diagram summarize the achievable objectives and challenges. In conclusion, there is no outstanding difference between the impact assessment methods for the carbon footprint investigation. Travel contributes 57% of the overall carbon footprint at in-person conferences, while the environmental impact of meals holds the second largest share, at 8.41 kg CO2 equivalent/person/hour. Excluding meals and travel, the calculated carbon footprint is 0.362 kg CO2 equivalent/person/hour (only considering the effect of preparation, organization, administration and registration package). Our initial hypothesis was that an online conference reduces decarbonization, which the results confirm.

Validity of the MED4CHILD tool for assessing adherence to the Mediterranean diet in preschool children

Most of the available tools to assess adherence to Mediterranean diet (MedDiet) were constructed for adults, having limited applicability to children and adolescents. The aim of this study is to validate a specific questionnaire to assess adherence to MedDiet in children aged 3 to 6 years (MED4CHILD questionnaire). The validation was performed in a baseline examination of a cohort of children who were recruited in schools in seven cities. Of the total sample of 1509 children, we included 858 children aged 3 to 6 years with complete information on adherence to the MedDiet, food consumption, anthropometry and cardiometabolic characteristics. Adherence to the MedDiet was assessed using an 18-item questionnaire, adapted from validated questionnaire for adults using the Delphi method. Food and beverage consumption was assessed using a validated COME-Kids Food and Beverage Frequency Questionnaire. Anthropometric measurements and cardiometabolic risk factors were assessed using standard methods. Statistical analyses included kappa agreement, ANOVA and linear regression models. Higher MED4CHILD scores were associated with higher intakes of food characteristic of the MedDiet. The MED4CHILD questionnaire showed moderate validity, especially for key items of the Mediterranean diet (kappa ranging from 0.333 to 0.665). Direct significant associations were found between MED4CHILD scores and cardiometabolic profile, including waist circumference (p), triglycerides and HOMA-IR (p < 0.05). Conclusion: The 18-item MED4CHILD questionnaire showed moderate validity for assessing adherence to the MedDiet in children aged 3 to 6 years, in terms of agreement with food and beverage consumption and favourable cardiometabolic profile.What is known:• The Mediterranean diet has been linked to a number of health benefits and the assessment of children's adherence to this diet is important for public health and research.• The tools available to assess MedDiet compliance are mainly for adults.What is new:• The MED4CHILD questionnaire is a simple, inexpensive and rapid tool for assessing MedDiet compliance in children.• This tool showed moderate relative validity and a high score was associated with a favourable cardiometabolic profile.

Exploring Parental Perspectives on Factors Influencing Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption in Children Aged 8 to 14

Exploring Parental Perspectives on Factors Influencing Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption in Children Aged 8 to 14

Risk of Exposure to Steviol Glycosides Through Consumption of Foods and Beverages: A Survey of the Thai Population

Risk of Exposure to Steviol Glycosides Through Consumption of Foods and Beverages: A Survey of the Thai Population

Sugar-sweetened or artificially sweetened beverage consumption, physical activity and risk of type 2 diabetes in US adults.

A positive association between sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) and diabetes risk has been shown, with inconsistent evidence between artificially sweetened beverages (ASBs) and diabetes. Moreover, it is uncertain if physical activity can mitigate the negative effects of these beverages on diabetes development. Therefore, we aimed to evaluate the independent and joint associations between SSB or ASB consumption and physical activity on the risk of type 2 diabetes. We followed 64,029 women in the Nurses' Health Study (1980-2016), 88,340 women in the Nurses' Health Study II (1991-2017) and 39,436 men in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study (1986-2016). SSB and ASB consumption was calculated from food-frequency questionnaires administered every 4 years, while physical activity data were collected biennially. A validated supplementary questionnaire on diabetes symptoms, diagnostic tests and treatment confirmed type 2 diabetes cases. Multivariable Cox proportional hazards regression models were used to calculate HRs and 95% CIs for developing type 2 diabetes. During 5,105,351 person-years of follow-up, we recorded 19,940 new cases of type 2 diabetes. Compared with those who never or rarely consumed SSBs or ASBs, those who consumed ≥2 servings/day had a 41% (HR 1.41 [95% CI 1.33, 1.50]) and 11% (HR 1.11 [95% CI 1.07, 1.16]) higher risk of type 2 diabetes, respectively. For participants meeting physical activity guidelines (≥7.5 metabolic equivalent of task [MET] h/week) and consuming ≥2 servings/week of SSBs or ASBs, the risk was 22% (HR 1.22 [95% CI 1.15, 1.29]) and 7% (HR 1.07 [95% CI 1.02, 1.12]) higher, respectively, compared with those who met physical activity guidelines and never or rarely (<1 serving/month) consumed these beverages. For participants meeting the physical activity guidelines and consuming 1-4 servings/month of SSBs, there was a 9% (HR 1.09 [95% CI 1.02, 1.15]) higher risk of type 2 diabetes. Compared with the reference group (those who met physical activity guidelines and consumed <1 SSB serving/month), adults who did not meet physical activity guidelines (<7.5 MET h/week) and who never or rarely (<1 serving/month) consumed SSBs, had 1-4 SSB servings/month, or had ≥2 SSB servings/week, the HRs (95% CIs) were 1.22 (1.13, 1.31), 1.28 (1.20, 1.37), and 1.51 (1.43, 1.61), respectively. Similarly, for ASB consumption, adults who did not meet physical activity guidelines and who never or rarely (<1 serving/month) consumed ASBs, had 1-4 servings/month, or had ≥2 servings/week, the HRs (95% CIs) were 1.21 (1.14, 1.28), 1.21 (1.13, 1.30), and 1.30 (1.23, 1.37) compared with the reference group (who met physical activity guidelines and consumed <1 ASB serving/month). Even when individuals were physically active, a higher consumption of SSBs or ASBs was associated with a higher risk of type 2 diabetes. Meeting physical activity guidelines reduced the impact of SSB and ASB consumption on diabetes risk, underscoring the need to promote physical activity as part of lifestyle modifications to lower diabetes incidence.

Aguamiel, a Traditional Mexican Beverage: A Review of Its Nutritional Composition, Health Effects and Conservation.

Aguamiel is the sap extracted from various species of maguey (Agave spp.). This liquid is highly prized in central Mexico for its pleasing sensory qualities and nutritional value. Understanding the composition of aguamiel is crucial as it may offer beneficial effects for human health. Reports have indicated its significance as a source of essential amino acids, vitamins, minerals, and fructooligosaccharides with prebiotic potential. Additionally, aguamiel can harbor diverse microorganisms, including lactic acid bacteria (Lactococcus and Leuconostoc spp.) and yeasts, contributing antioxidant, nutritional, prebiotic, and probiotic properties. However, aguamiel is prone to rapid fermentation due to its nature, which can alter its sensory and nutritional characteristics. This review provides insight into the broad nutritional composition, microbial diversity, and metabolites beneficial to the human health of fresh aguamiel. At the same time, it reviews the technologies applied to aguamiel to preserve its nutritional properties and functional metabolites and extend its shelf life. Thus, the data included in this document may lead to greater beverage consumption and further research to find new conservation alternatives that change its organoleptic and functional properties as little as possible.

How does meditation relate to quality of life, positive lifestyle habits and carbon footprint?

There is increasing scientific interest in the potential links between meditation practice and pro-environmental behaviours. The present research investigates relationships between Vipassana meditation experience (temporal variables of meditation, five facets of trait mindfulness), positive lifestyle habits (PLH), quality of life (QoL) and per-head carbon footprint (CF) among 25 skilled meditators. Self-reported validated questionnaires were given to a group of native speakers of Sri Lanka to collect data on meditation experience, PLH, and perceived QoL. In estimating CF four domains (food and beverage consumption, electricity consumption, traveling and solid waste disposal) were considered. Correlation analyses revealed that trait mindfulness showed strong associations (r>0.4) with PLH. None of the temporal variables of meditation experience was significantly correlated with any domain of CF. Two facets of mindfulness (observing and non-reactivity to present-moment experience) demonstrated statistically strong associations (p<0.05) with perceived QoL. It was found that the PLH significantly mediates the relationship between the observing facet of trait mindfulness and CF associated with food and beverage consumption (indirect effect - 0.002, SE=0.001 95% CI [0.010, 0.417]). Further, the relationship between acting with awareness and CF associated with solid waste disposal at landfill sites was significantly mediated by the PLH (indirect effect - (-0.003), SE=0.003 95% CI [-0.012, -0.0001]). The current study will serve as a foundation for future longitudinal studies on the same subject by providing evidence for the relationships between meditation experience and PLH, perceived QoL and CF.

An update on beverage consumption patterns and caffeine intakes in a representative sample of the US population.

Caffeine is a popular stimulant, predominantly consumed from beverages. The caffeinated beverage marketplace is continually evolving resulting in considerable interest in understanding the impact caffeinated beverages have on levels of intakes. Therefore, estimates of caffeine intakes in the U.S. population were calculated using a recent 2022 beverage survey, the Kantar Worldpanel Enhanced Beverage Service. A nationally representative sample of 49,700 consumers (aged ≥2 years) completed a 1-day beverage intake survey which collected data on beverage type/category, amount and brand. Approximately 69% of the U.S. population consumed at least one caffeinated beverage per day. The mean (±SE) daily caffeine intake of caffeine consumers (age >2 years) from all beverages was 210 ±1.5 mg. Caffeine intake was highest in consumers aged 50-64 years (246±4.5 mg/day) and lowest in children aged 2-5 (42±2.4 mg/day). At the 90th percentile intake was 520 mg/day for all ages combined. Coffee was the largest contributor (69%) to caffeine intake across all age groups followed by carbonated soft drinks (15.4%), tea (8.8%), and energy drinks (6.3%). This study indicates that an increase in caffeine intake has occurred with a corresponding shift in beverage consumption patterns compared to previous surveys.

Assessment of the physicochemical and sensory properties of probiotic malt beverage produced from sorghum and barley using probiotic strains (Lactobacillus acidophilus and saccharomyces cerevisiae)

Proper nutrition is characteristically essential as it promotes gut balance and enhances protection from diseases and overall human survival. Functional foods inoculated with lactic acid bacteria (LAB) are a multifaceted group of microorganisms with a wide range of applications in industry and humans due to their health benefits. This study involved the evaluation of the physicochemical and sensory properties of probiotic malt beverages produced from sorghum and barley using Lactobacillus acidophilus and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The malt beverages were divided into three groups, inoculated with Lactobacillus acidophilus, Saccharomyces cerevisiae and the mixture of both Lactobacillus acidophilus and Saccharomyces cerevisiae, and were coded 177, 277 and 377, respectively. The proximate and sensory properties of the probiotic malt beverage were evaluated. The data generated were subjected to statistical analysis using a significant difference of 5%. There was variation in the evaluated sensory properties of the probiotic malt beverage with the control (normal malt) standing out. After the control, 277 had the highest score for all the sensory parameters evaluated, followed by 377. No significant difference exists (p&gt;0.05) in their appearance, smell and general acceptability. However, there was a significant difference in their taste. Results from this research work suggest that the production of probiotic malt beverage can be achieved using Lactobacillus acidophilus and Saccharomyces cerevisiae. The production and consumption of probiotic beverages should, therefore, be encouraged because of its immense health benefits, especially in the balance of human gut flora level.

Association Between Sugar-Sweetened Beverage Consumption and Frailty Among Older Adults With Hypertension: Evidence From the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999-2020.

Frailty is a condition characterized by increased vulnerability to adverse health outcomes, particularly among older adults. With the significant prevalence of hypertension and the consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) in this demographic, it is essential to explore their potential combined effects on frailty. This cross-sectional study utilized data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) spanning 1999-2020, involving 13,465 hypertensive adults aged 60 and above. Frailty was assessed using a Frailty Index based on 49 deficits, categorizing individuals as frail if their score was ≥ 0.25. SSB consumption was measured through 24-h dietary recalls. Multivariate logistic regression analyses, adjusted for various confounding factors including age, sex, body mass index (BMI), socioeconomic status, and lifestyle choices, indicated that SSB consumption was independently associated with an increased likelihood of frailty (odds ratio = 1.18, 95% confidence interval: 1.02-1.37, p = 0.02). Additionally, restricted cubic spline curve fitting revealed a linear relationship between SSB intake and frailty levels. Our findings suggested that SSB consumption was associated with frailty in older hypertensive adults, emphasizing the need for further research on the underlying mechanisms and potential interventions.

The influence of dietary and lifestyle factors on GERD-related dental erosion: A literature review

Background: Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic gastrointestinal disorder commonly associated with dental erosion. GERD-related dental erosion is influenced by various factors, including dietary habits and lifestyle choices. Purpose: This article aims to review the influence of dietary and lifestyle factors on GERD-related dental erosion based on a literature review. Methods: This study employed a literature review methodology, analyzing articles published between 2019 and 2024. Data sources were obtained from databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, ScienceDirect, and Elsevier. A total of 8 articles met the inclusion criteria and were analyzed further. Results: Studies indicate that the consumption of acidic foods and beverages, such as citrus fruits and carbonated drinks, exacerbates dental erosion in GERD patients. Lifestyle factors, such as late-night eating and caffeine consumption, were also found to increase the risk of dental erosion. Conversely, the consumption of milk was associated with a reduction in the severity of erosion. GERD also affects the salivary profile, including lowering the pH and buffering capacity of saliva, thereby increasing the risk of enamel demineralization. Conclusion: Dietary and lifestyle factors play a significant role in increasing the risk of GERD-related dental erosion. A holistic management approach, including dietary modifications, lifestyle changes, and regular dental health monitoring, is necessary to reduce the impact of GERD on dental health.

Identifying the facilitators of Iran’s alcoholic beverage black market and presenting solutions for harm reduction: a qualitative document analysis

BackgroundDespite Iran’s prohibition politics regarding alcoholic beverages consumption, marketing, and trading, there is a flourishing black market. Often, alcohol producers on this black market do not adhere alcohol production standards, resulting in a lot of deaths and significant consequences each year. Accordingly, this study was carried out to identify facilitators for the growth of the black market for alcoholic beverages in Iran and provide solutions for harm reduction.MethodsThis study was a qualitative document publicly available analysis, in which online newspapers and Persian news websites about alcoholic beverages black market in Iran were reviewed. Documents were analyzed using thematic analysis.ResultsAfter the completion of the analysis, 21 final codes, seven subthemes, and four themes were developed. Four themes are (1) political factors, including governance, regulatory rules and regulations, and awareness sub-themes (2) sociocultural factors, including culture change sub-theme (3) economic factors, including attractive market sub-theme, and (4) business factors, including manufacturing and marketing sub-themes.ConclusionsAs a result of alcohol prohibition politics in Iran and a socioeconomically supportive environment, black market has developed. Several policies can be implemented to reduce alcohol black market harm. It is possible to reduce the demand for homemade alcohol by educating the public about its risks. The government should enforce stricter policies on trading and advertising alcohol to reduce the availability of homemade alcohol and shrink alcohol black market. To implement these solutions, clerics should be convinced that the alcohol black market poses a serious public health threat.

How does habit strength affect reactions to warning labels? evidence from Chinese consumers' choices of carbonated beverages.

Effectively regulating the excessive consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) has been an important task for public health authorities around the world. The rapid increase in SSB consumption in China necessitates robust regulations. This study employed a choice experiment to simulate the market scenario in which a text warning label was presented on SSBs. We draw a sample of 1200 participants from five major cities across China to analyze the warning label's effectiveness in reducing urban consumers' purchases of SSBs, with a particular emphasis on how an individual's habit strength affects their reaction to the warning label. Our analysis unveiled varying levels of habit strength among respondents: 35.33% showed weak habits, 56.25% displayed moderate habits, and 8.42% demonstrated strong habits. The random parameters logit model results showed a significant overall decrease in SSB purchases when a warning label was present, indicated by a significant negative coefficient associated with the label. However, when examining the impact of warning labels across different habit strengths, a significant effect was observed only in the moderate habit group. Furthermore, within this group, the warning label was more effective for those with correct health knowledge and who were not overweight or obese.

Material Use Efficiency of Primary Packaging of Fast‐Moving Consumer Goods

AbstractTo make different packages with various filling quantities better comparable for their packaging material use, in this study the packaging material use efficiency was defined as the ratio of fill good amount to the packaging weight. Several hundred rigid packages (tubes, bottles, cans, and carton packages) for liquid and higher‐viscous fast‐moving consumer goods, e.g., beverages and personal care products, were analyzed (weight) and more than &gt;1000 data sets were taken from packaging suppliers of glass and PET packaging. As expected, glass packaging is heavier than PET packaging by a factor of around 10, and with a higher filling volume less packaging per amount of food is required. The material use efficiency of glass and PET bottles can differ by up to a factor of 3 within one filling quantity. The results are relevant for calculating life cycle assessments (LCAs) and selection of material efficient packaging.

Beyond undernutrition: tracking the surge of obesity among younger population in Bihar, India

Background: The increasing prevalence of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents in Bihar has become a critical public health concern, coexisting with the state’s long-standing challenge of undernutrition. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence trends, key determinants, and demographic disparities of overweight and obesity among children and adolescents in Bihar to identify actionable insights for public health strategies. Methods: Data from the National Family Health Surveys (NFHS-4, 2015–16, and NFHS-5, 2019–21) were analyzed along with supplementary reports from WHO and UNICEF. The study included children aged 5–9 years and adolescents aged 10–19 years, with overweight and obesity classified using WHO growth standards (BMI-for-age &gt; +1 SD and &gt; +2 SD, respectively). Descriptive statistics were employed to assess prevalence trends, while multivariate logistic regression identified behavioral and environmental risk factors, including screen time, physical activity, and dietary habits. Results: Overweight prevalence doubled among children aged 5–9 years (1.2% to 2.4%) and increased among adolescents (3.2% to 4.5%). Obesity among adolescents also doubled, rising from 1.1% to 2.3%. Urban children exhibited higher rates of overweight (6.2%) compared to rural children (2.8%). Behavioral factors such as physical inactivity (&lt;30 minutes/day; OR=3.2) and prolonged screen time (&gt;4 hours/day; OR=2.5) were significant predictors. Frequent consumption of fast food and sugary beverages further increased the risk. Conclusions: The findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions, including promoting physical activity, regulating unhealthy food environments, and embedding nutrition education in schools. A multisectoral approach is critical to addressing the dual burden of malnutrition in Bihar’s children and adolescents.

Impact of a Community-Based Health Intervention on Health Knowledge, Lifestyle Goals, Dietary Practices, and Physical Activity in Older Adults: A Multisite Cohort Study.

Background: Studies on the effectiveness of community-based health interventions (CBHIs) in improving lifestyle practices among older adults are limited. Objectives: This study evaluated the impact of a CBHI on health knowledge, lifestyle goal attainment, and practices among older adults in Singapore. Methods: Older adults (aged ≥60 years) were recruited from 29 senior recreation centres to participate in the "Wise and Well" programme, a 3-month CBHI designed to empower individuals to make healthier lifestyle choices. Pre- and post-programme assessments of health knowledge, goal attainment, and lifestyle behaviours (dietary practices and physical activity levels) were conducted using a health knowledge questionnaire, Goal Attainment Scaling (GAS), the Modified Dietary Practice Questionnaire (DPQ), and the Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ), respectively. Statistical analysis was performed using the Wilcoxon signed-rank and McNemar's tests (α = 0.05). Results: The study comprised 464 participants (mean age 73.1 years [SD 7.6]; 75.9% women). Three months post-program, participants showed significantly increased health knowledge (p < 0.001) and improved lifestyle goal attainment (p < 0.001). Additionally, there was a significant increase in the proportion of participants meeting or exceeding fruit (p < 0.001) and vegetable (p = 0.002) intake recommendations and reductions in sugar-sweetened beverage consumption (p = 0.002). However, no significant changes were observed in fried food consumption or physical activity levels. High health knowledge scores were associated with 2.17 (95% confidence interval 1.02,4.64) times greater odds of increased vegetable intake. Conclusions: The CBHI shows potential as an effective approach to improving health knowledge and enhancing lifestyle goals and practices among older adults.

Antiplasmodial activities of selected artemisinin-based combination therapy (ACT) drugs co-administered with beer in Plasmodium berghei-infected albino rats.

Alcoholic beverages, particularly beer, are widely consumed in Nigeria despite its contribution to most disability, deaths, and some non-communicable diseases. Based on unpublished reports, some individuals consume alcoholic beverages while treating malaria, which raises concerns about potential interactions between alcohol and antimalaria drugs. However, there is paucity of information on the effect of alcoholic beverage consumption on the management of malaria. Hence, this study investigated the effect of alcoholic beverage co-administered with Artemisinin-based Combination Therapy (ACT) drugs on parasitaemia in an established malaria infection of albino rats infected intraperitoneally with Chloroquine-sensitive Plasmodium berghei. Different groups of the experimental animals (except the positive and negative controls) were orally administered 0.5mL of beer (5.2% alcohol) either 1 hour before, concurrently, or 1 hour after malaria treatment with 0.2 mL of selected ACT medicines. All experimental animals (except the negative control) were treated with only one of the ACTs: artemether + lumefantrine (AL), dihydroartemisinin + piperazine (DP), and artesunate + amodiaquine (AA) for three days. Parasitaemia was determined from Giemsa-stained thin blood films of experimental animals viewed under the light microscope using standard methods. Result showed that parasitaemia reduced significantly (p&lt;0.05) in the positive control groups treated with ACT compared to other experimental groups (beer-administered and negative control). Parasitaemia also reduced significantly (p&lt;0.05) in the beer-administered groups treated with ACT compared to the negative control. In the group of infected animals administered beer without antimalarial treatment, parasitaemia reduced significantly (p&lt;0.05) compared to the negative control only. These findings suggest possible drug-alcohol interactions that has the potential to reduce the therapeutic efficacy of ACTs.