Consumption Of Vitamin Research Articles

Dietary and Antioxidant Vitamins Limit the DNA Damage Mediated by Oxidative Stress in the Mother-Newborn Binomial.

During pregnancy, appropriate nutritional support is necessary for the development of the foetus. Maternal nutrition might protect the foetus from toxic agents such as free radicals due to its antioxidant content. In this study, 90 mothers and their children were recruited. DNA damage mediated by oxidative stress (OS) was determined by the levels of 8-hidroxy-2′-deoxyguanosine (8-OHdG) in the plasma of women and umbilical cord blood. The mothers and newborns were categorised into tertiles according to their 8-OHdG levels for further comparison. No relevant clinical differences were observed in each group. A strong correlation was observed in the mother–newborn binomial for 8-OHdG levels (Rho = 0.694, p < 0.001). In the binomial, a lower level of 8-OHdG was associated with higher consumption of calories, carbohydrates, lipids, and vitamin A (p < 0.05). In addition, the levels of 8-OHdG were only significantly lower in newborns from mothers with a higher consumption of vitamin A and E (p < 0.01). These findings were confirmed by a significant negative correlation between the 8-OHdG levels of newborns and the maternal consumption of vitamins A and E, but not C (Rho = −0.445 (p < 0.001), −0.281 (p = 0.007), and −0.120 (p = 0.257), respectively). Multiple regression analysis showed that the 8-OHdG levels in mothers and newborns inversely correlated with vitamin A (β = −1.26 (p = 0.016) and −2.17 (p < 0.001), respectively) and pregestational body mass index (β = −1.04 (p = 0.007) and −0.977 (p = 0.008), respectively). In conclusion, maternal consumption of vitamins A and E, but not C, might protect newborns from DNA damage mediated by OS.

The optimal way to fill the deficiency of essential substances for the well-being of the joints

The article presents basic information about the role and structure of cartilage tissue and its components, the impact of an imbalance in the structure of nutrition on the well-being of the joints, evidence of the symptomatic and structural-modifying effect of chondroitin and glucosamine in the composition of original drugs and dietary supplements in the treatment of osteoarthritis. Particular attention is paid to the structure and synthesis of collagen, its biological role in the body in the formation of the cell structure of various tissues, especially cartilage. Found 28 types of collagen, differing in amino acid sequence and degree of modification, which are encoded by more than 40 genes. It was noted that the activity of enzymes involved in the synthesis of collagen depends on sufficient intake of products containing ascorbic acid (vitamin C), and the degradation and decrease in the amount of collagen is associated with the development and progression of osteoarthritis and other diseases of the musculoskeletal system. The use of type 2 collagen, including in combination with chondroitin and glucosamine, is considered as a promising method for preventing joint problems. It is emphasized that the main substances necessary for the syn thesis of cartilage components come from food. An imbalance in the structure of nutrition (reducing the consumption of proteins, microelements and vitamins, excessive consumption of fats and carbohydrates) negatively affects the state of the connective tissue and causes problems for all structures that form the joint. One way to correct eating behavior and replenish essential deficiencies is through the use of vitamin-mineral complexes and dietary supplements, which are gaining interest in the medical community as evidence accumulates for their effectiveness in supporting joint well-being.

Regular combined training and vitamins modulated the apoptosis process in diabetic rats: Bioinformatics analysis of heart failure's differential genes expression network correlated with anti-apoptotic process.

The apoptosis process could impose significantly by hyperglycemia. According to in silico language processing and high throughput raw data analysis, we recognized hub molecular mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of diabetic hearts and suggested a new pharmaceutical approach for declining myocardial programed cell death. Fifty male Sprague-Dawley rats were classified into five groups: healthy rats as control, diabetic rats, diabetic combined resistance/endurance training, diabetic rats which consumed supplementation vitamins E and C, and the combined supplementation and training. Here, we calculated changes in gene expression based on artificial intelligence methods and evaluated gene expression in apoptotic influencing combined training and antioxidants vitamins consumption in heart injured models by streptozotocin via Real-Time PCR. Moreover, we assessed the binding affinity of the 3D structure of small molecules on macromolecule SIRT3 to a new compound pharmaceutical suggesting the decline in cell death program. The computational intelligence surveys revealed that the apoptosis process was a remarkable pathomechanism in the abnormality function of heart tissue in diabetic conditions. Furthermore, we showed that synchronizing antioxidant vitamin consumption and regular combined training could significantly decrease irreversible myocardial cell death in diabetic myocardiopathy. Hence, levels of antiapoptotic mRNA were modified in the combined training/vitamin consumption group compared with other classifications. We found that regular combined exercise and vitamin consumption could reverse the apoptosis process to enhance the survival of cardiac muscle cells in diabetes conditions. PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS: Machine learning and system biology indicated that the apoptosis process is a vital pathomechanism of hyperglycemia-induced heart failure. Sirt3/Fas/Bcl-2/Cycs and Bax, as a critical network of apoptosis, play an essential role in heart failure induced by hyperglycemia. Moreover, Type 2 diabetes and obesity increase the risk of heart failure by increasing high blood sugar levels. We calculated the binding power of the vitamins E and C on SIRT3 protein based on the drug software. In addition, this study assessed that regular combined training and vitamin consumption had an antiapoptotic effect. Also, our data might improve the hyperglycemia state.

Vitamin B-12 malabsorption and renal function are critical considerations in studies of folate and vitamin B-12 interactions in cognitive performance: NHANES 2011–2014

Cognitive health is a public health concern among older adults. Dietary supplement (SUP) use is common and concerns have been raised about high folic acid intake among those with vitamin B-12 deficiency and exacerbation of poor cognitive performance (PCP). We evaluated SUP use, usual folic acid intake, and blood folate and vitamin B-12 concentrations in relation to cognitive performance. We used NHANES 2011-2014 data on adults aged ≥60 y (n=2867) and estimated total usual folic acid intake from diet and supplements, vitamin B-12 intake from SUPs, blood folates, vitamin B-12 concentrations, vitamin B-12 insufficiency (≤258pmol/L), high folate (serum folate ≥59nmol/L or RBC folate ≥1609nmol/L), and PCP (<34 on the Digit Symbol Substitution Test). We assessed folate distributions adjusted for multiple variables, including renal function. Compared with persons without PCP, adults with PCP were less likely to use supplements containing folic acid (mean±SEE: 34.4%±2.4%) or vitamin B-12 (mean±SEE: 47.5%±1.6%). Among vitamin B-12-insufficient adults, 18.0%±1.6% (mean±SEE) reported taking a vitamin B-12 supplement. Among participants with high folate and insufficient vitamin B-12 concentrations, 34.3%±11.5% (mean±SEE) reported taking vitamin B-12-containing supplements. Persons with high folate and normal vitamin B-12 concentrations had lower odds of PCP [aOR (adjusted odds ratio): 0.61; 95% CI: 0.45, 0.83] than persons with normal folate and vitamin B-12. Persons with high folate and normal methylmalonic acid (MMA) had lower odds of PCP (OR: 0.56; 95% CI: 0.40, 0.78) than those with normal folate and MMA concentrations. After adjustment for renal function, elevated risk of PCP was attenuated among persons with high folate and MMA. Concurrent high folate and insufficient vitamin B-12 concentrations were not associated with PCP. Differential associations between vitamin B-12 and MMA highlight the need to consider renal function in studies of high folate and low vitamin B-12 status. Consumption of vitamin B-12 supplements concurrent with low vitamin B-12 status may indicate vitamin B-12 malabsorption.

Negative health effects of excessive use of vitamin D, vitamin C and zinc as food alternatives to prevent COVID-19

Covid-19 is one of six viruses belonging to human, leading to mild to severe respiratory diseases. During Covid-19 pandemic, good and balanced food is crucial before, through and after exposure to the virus, because there is in fact no particular food that prevents infection. A review article on the excessive use of vitamin C, D and Zinc as antiviral agents against COVID-19 was prepared and written during the global pandemic of the virus after the phenomenon of increased people’s consumption of vitamins and other supplements to prevent infection, after collecting information from various articles and scientific research published during 2020 through various search engines, from July 15 to August 25. In conclusion, there is not enough scientific evidence to give high doses of vitamin C or vitamin and zinc to prevent infection with the Covid-19 virus. Vitamin C is safe when used in high doses, but Vitamin D has toxic effects if the daily dose exceeds 50,000 IU and zinc can be fatal if the dose exceeds 10-30 gm.

Shift work, sleep, and burnout: the impact of Mediterranean dietary pattern and nutritional status on emergency healthcare workers

PurposeThis study aims to evaluate the relationship between dietary patterns and shift work, sleep quality and burnout among emergency health-care workers.Design/methodology/approachThe nutritional status, sleep quality and burnout status of health-care workers (n = 91) in Turkey were investigated.FindingsAmong the burnout subgroups, only emotional exhaustion was associated with high adherence to the Meditarrenean diet. (r = 0.37, p < 0.01). Carbohydrates consumed during the shift day were associated with lower sleep quality (r = 0.24, p = 0.02). The intake of protein (r = −0.29, p < 0.01), fat (r = −0.27, p < 0.00), cholesterol (r = −0.31, p < 0.01), phosphorus (r = −0.22, p = 0.03) and iron (r = −0.21, p = 0.04) in shift day was negatively associated with Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index (PSQI) scores (lower PSQI scores indicates good sleep quality). Consumption of vitamin C and potassium on the rest day was significantly associated with better sleep quality (respectively, r = −0.21, p = 0.04 and r=−0.23, p = 0.03). Personal accomplishment was positively correlated with carbohydrate consumption during the shift day and negatively correlated with protein, cholesterol and vitamin B6 intake (respectively, r = 0.22, p = 0.03; r = −0.21, p = 0.03; r=−0.28, p < 0.00, r = −0.28, p < 0.00). Emotional exhaustion was negatively correlated with protein consumption on the shift day (r = −0.21, p = 0.04) and positively correlated with fat consumption on the rest day (r = 0.22, p = 0.02).Originality/valueThe findings confirm the possible role of dietary patterns in health-care workers against burnout and sleep quality attributable to a possible association with nutrients intake on shift or rest day.

Nutritional adequacy of essential vitamins and minerals consumed by edentulous elderly at Little Sisters of the Poor in Enugu, Enugu State, Nigeria

Edentulism is having few or no teeth in the oral cavity, which is an irreversible condition. It has been shown to be more prevalent in the aged especially among the female. Edentulism which is an age related problem is associated with inability to eat, which render the aged deficient of essential vitamins and minerals. The aim of study is to determine the Nutritional Adequacy of Essential Vitamins and Minerals consumed by Edentulous Elderly at Little Sisters of the Poor, Home for the Elderly, Enugu. The home houses 54 inmates. All inclusive sampling technique was adopted for the study. Oral examination was conducted using mouth mirror to ascertain the number of elderly with tooth loss. The food menu used for feeding the inmates was collected from the home and it served as a guide for collection of food samples for chemical analysis to determine the adequacy of essential vitamins and minerals (vitamin D, vitamin B12, calcium, potassium and magnesium). Minerals and Vitamin D and Vitamin B12 were analyzed using Wet Ashing method. The result showed that out of 54 elderly inmates, 44 inmates are edentulous of which females are mostly affected. The result from chemical analysis of food showed 32.5 mcg intake of vitamin D,12.2 mcg intake of vitamin B12, 0.017 mg intake of calcium, 0.346 mg intake magnesium and 0.034 mg intake of potassium and this as compared with recommended daily intake that there is adequate intake of vitamin D, excessive intake of vitamin B12 but inadequate intake of calcium, magnesium and potassium. This in turn shows that there is inadequate consumption of essential vitamins and minerals by edentulous elderly at Little Sisters of the Poor, Home for the Elderly, Enugu. This shows that there is need to include food rich in essential vitamins and minerals and also give supplement that are in form of medicine to the inmates to meet the adequacy.

Reproducibility and Validity of a Food Frequency Questionnaire to Measure the Consumption of β-Carotene, β-Cryptoxanthin, Folate, Vitamin D, EPA, and DHA

ObjectivesThe authors assessed the reproducibility and validity of a 166-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (SFFQ) for a Japanese population, focusing on carotenoids, vitamin D, folate, and fatty acids. Foods for the questionnaire were chosen with a focus on nutrients associated with lifestyle-related diseases.MethodsNutrient intakes were energy-adjusted using the residual method. De-attenuated correlation coefficients between the energy-adjusted nutrients from the SFFQs and DRs were calculated to account for the within-person variation in replicate DRs or plasma biomarkers. Using the method of triads to calculate validity coefficients (VC) and 95% CIs were calculated with both DR's and plasma biomarkers as comparison methods.ResultsThe median of the deattenuated correlations between the second SFFQ and DRs was 0.56 (range, 0.34, 0.74) for 43 energy-adjusted nutrients. The correlations and 95% confidence intervals (CI) for beta-carotene, beta-cryptoxanthin, folate, vitamin D, EPA, and DHA were 0.43 (0.23, 0.60), 0.68 (0.45, 0.82), 0.69 (0.34, 0.87),0.55 (0.37, 0.68), 0.62 (0.37, 0.79), and 0.62 (0.37, 0.79), respectively. The median of intraclass correlation coefficients between the first six and second six days of DR was 0.59, and that between the first and the second SFFQ was 0.49. The VCs and 95% CIs were 0.47 (0.30, 0.73) for β-carotene, 0.59 (0.42, 0.81) for β-cryptoxanthin, 0.85 (0.51, 1.43) for folate, 0.55 (0.36, 0.87) for vitamin D, 0.61 (0.46, 0.82) for EPA, and 0.61 (0.44, 0.86) for DHA.ConclusionsThese findings suggest that a carefully designed food frequency questionnaire can reasonably estimate the intake of important nutrients in a Japanese population.Funding SourcesThe University of Nagasaki President Education Research Grants 2013, 2014, and 2016.

Relationship Between Dietary Fiber and Vitamin C Intake and Oral Cancer.

BackgroundDietary fiber and vitamin C has been reported to play a possible role in tumorigenesis. However, few studies have estimated their association with oral cancer risk. In this project, we investigated the relationship between dietary fiber and vitamin C and oral cancer risk in adults in Southern China.Methods382 patients newly diagnosed with oral cancer were matched to 382 hospital derived controls by frequency matching in age and sex. Pre-diagnostic consumption of dietary fiber and vitamin C intake were measured through food frequency questionnaire. Association between nutrients intake and oral cancer risk were evaluated by logistic regression. OR value and 95% confidence interval was calculated.ResultsIntake of dietary fiber and vitamin C was significantly lower in oral cancer patients (8.15 g/day) than in control participants (8.88 g/day). Increased dietary fiber or vitamin C intake was linked to a decreased incidence of OC after adjustment of age, marital status, residence, BMI, occupation, education, tobacco smoking, alcohol consumption and family history of cancer Ptrend< 0.001). Compared with the lowest tertile, the adjusted OR of the top tertile of dietary fiber was 0.47 (95 % CI 0.32, 0.68). While the adjusted OR of the highest tertile was 0.60 (95 % CI 0.42, 0.87) compared with the lowest tertile of vitamin C.ConclusionsDietary intake of fiber and vitamin C were lower in oral cancer patients than in control participants. Dietary fiber and vitamin C were inversely related to risk of oral cancer risk.

Adjunctive vitamin D therapy in various diseases in children: a scenario according to standard guideline

BackgroundAdherence to standard guidelines is imperative when question comes to disease management. The present study aimed to evaluate the administration of adjunctive vitamin D therapy in various diseases, its adherence to standard guideline and the effect of socioeconomic status on the consumption of vitamin D in children.MethodsCross sectional observational study was conducted among 400 ambulatory pediatric patients at Children’s Hospital, Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences Islamabad, from November 2017 to June 2018. Data were collected by a self-designed structured questionnaire from the patient’s medical chart. Adjunctive vitamin D therapy adherence was evaluated by the U. S endocrinology clinical practice guideline of vitamin D deficiency. The association between socioeconomic status and consumption of vitamin D was examined by chi-square. Alpha value (p ≤ 0.005) was considered statistically significant. Statistical analysis was done by SPSS version 25.ResultsIn 400 patients, 9 diseases and 21 comorbid conditions were identified, in which adjunctive vitamin D therapy was prescribed. Adherence to vitamin D testing in high-risk vitamin D deficiency diseases as; seizures (3.8%), bone deformities (13.3%), steroid-resistant nephrotic syndrome (0.0%), cerebral palsy (5.9%) and meningitis (14.3%). Adherence to prescribed vitamin D dose was in (41.3%) patients in various diseases. Significant association (p < 0.05) was found between socioeconomic status and consumption of vitamin D in children and mothers.ConclusionsIt was found that adjunctive vitamin D was being prescribed in various diseases and comorbidities. Overall poor adherence to the standard guideline was observed in disease management in children. Low socioeconomic status affects vitamin D supplementation consumption in children.

Deficiency of Daily Calcium and Vitamin D in Primary School Children in Lviv, Ukraine.

This study was conducted to determine the prevalence of calcium and vitamin D deficiency in school children aged 6 to 11 years in Lviv (Ukraine). The aim of this study was also to assess the effect of nutritional intervention and supplementation on serum calcium and vitamin D levels in children diagnosed with calcium deficiency. A 3 day diet was analyzed in 172 children. In 56 children with a deficiency of calcium and/or vitamin D, the level of total calcium, ionized calcium, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D in blood, as well as the calcium content in hair samples, was determined. Thirty children with confirmed calcium and/or vitamin D deficiency underwent a dietary intervention to increase calcium and vitamin D intake for 3 months. The study group (n = 15) was provided with a nutritional correction by modifying their diet with supplementation of calcium and vitamin D. The control group (n = 15) received only a diet modification. Decreased daily calcium intake was observed in 50.68% of boys and 70.71% of girls. A decreased level of daily vitamin D consumption was found in 84.93% of boys and 96.97% of girls. Among 56 children with insufficient daily consumption of calcium and/or vitamin D, 26.8% had reduced levels of total calcium in the blood, 16.1% had reduced levels of ionized calcium in the blood, and 48.2% had reduced levels of vitamin D. After 3 months of correction, normal calcium level was found in the hair of 10 students (66.7%) from the study group and in three subjects (20.0%) from the control group. Modification of the diet along with supplementation of calcium and vitamin D seems to be a more effective method for increasing the level of calcium among children aged 6 to 11 years.

Impact of 'infodemic in pandemic' on food and nutrition related perceptions and practices of Indian internet users.

The uncontrolled spread of (mis)information, news and propaganda related to COVID 19 created an ‘infodemic’ leading to panic and unscientific practices among the mass. With the largest number of internet users in the world, India has witnessed a steep rise in the number of people seeking information on social media related to COVID-19, which reached a staggering 22.3 million by March, 2020. This study aimed to evaluate the trend of COVID-19 associated food and nutrition news search by Indian internet users between 27th January 2020 to 30th June 2021 (time period between the first detected COVID-19 case and the end of the second wave in India) and its impact on their perceptions and practices. The association between the change in Relative Search Volume (RSV) on Google Trends (GT) of 34 popularly searched keywords classified by the researchers under 5 different categories—“Immunity”, “Eating behavior”, “Food safety”, “Food scares and concerns” and “Covid scare” showed a steep rise in search for immunity boosters, vitamin supplement brands “ayush kadha (ayurvedic decoction) during the first wave (April- August 2020). With a brief period of decline in the search trend, it again hiked correspondingly with the growing number of positive cases during the second wave in India. An online survey conducted on adult Indian internet users (n = 572) reported high (71.9%) consumption of Vitamin C rich fruits as well as Vitamin C (68.2%) and Zinc (61.4%) supplements to boost immunity. Traditional Indian spices like ginger and garlic were used by 62.9% and 50.9% respondents respectively. Most respondents reported to rely on social media for gathering COVID-19 associated tips for boosting immunity, however those with history of COVID-19 infection reported to rely more on doctors and health professionals for information. This study highlights the need of media and health literacy to advocate for the use of health information cautiously.

Comparison of Vitamin D Levels in Premature Infants with and without Retinopathy of Prematurity

Retinopathy of prematurity (RoP) is a cause of newborn blindness. Several predisposing factors have been reported to contribute to the disease process. The current study aimed to compare serum vitamin D levels in infants with and without RoP. This case-control study was conducted on 154 very low birth weight (VLBW) infants admitted to Ghaem hospital, Mashhad, Iran, during 2016-2019. Retinal examination for RoP was done at the 32nd week of pregnancy and vitamin D level was determined using the infants' first-day serum samples. A researcher-made questionnaire including maternal, infant, laboratory, and retinal examination information was used as the data collection tool. Out of 154 infants in the study, 56 (36.4%) were normal while 98 (63.6%) had RoP. Based on the severity of retinopathy, 43 infants (43.9%) were at stage I, 48 (49%) at stage II, and 7 (7.1%) at stage III. Significant differences in neonatal (P<0.001) and maternal (P=0.015) vitamin D levels, first and fifth minute Apgar scores (P=0.034 and P=0.001, respectively), and weight (P=0.014) were found between the infants with and without RoP. The incidence of RoP was higher in infants with lower gestational age, lower birth weight, low first and fifth minutes Apgar scores, and male sex. Low serum levels of vitamin D in premature infants and their mothers were associated with incidence of RoP. The higher the stage of RoP, the greater was the severity of vitamin D deficiency. Thus, controlling the maternal vitamin D level during pregnancy, consumption of vitamin D supplements, and investigation of serum vitamin D levels in premature infants are recommended. Early correction of vitamin D deficiency may lead to reduction of RoP.

Biochemical mechanism underlying the pathogenesis of diabetic retinopathy and other diabetic complications in humans: the methanol-formaldehyde-formic acid hypothesis.

Hyperglycemia in diabetic patients is associated with abnormally-elevated cellular glucose levels. It is hypothesized that increased cellular glucose will lead to increased formation of endogenous methanol and/or formaldehyde, both of which are then metabolically converted to formic acid. These one-carbon metabolites are known to be present naturally in humans, and their levels are increased under diabetic conditions. Mechanistically, while formaldehyde is a cross-linking agent capable of causing extensive cytotoxicity, formic acid is an inhibitor of mitochondrial cytochrome oxidase, capable of inducing histotoxic hypoxia, ATP deficiency and cytotoxicity. Chronic increase in the production and accumulation of these toxic one-carbon metabolites in diabetic patients can drive the pathogenesis of ocular as well as other diabetic complications. This hypothesis is supported by a large body of experimental and clinical observations scattered in the literature. For instance, methanol is known to have organ- and species-selective toxicities, including the characteristic ocular lesions commonly seen in humans and non-human primates, but not in rodents. Similarly, some of the diabetic complications (such as ocular lesions) also have a characteristic species-selective pattern, closely resembling methanol intoxication. Moreover, while alcohol consumption or combined use of folic acid plus vitamin B is beneficial for mitigating acute methanol toxicity in humans, their use also improves the outcomes of diabetic complications. In addition, there is also a large body of evidence from biochemical and cellular studies. Together, there is considerable experimental support for the proposed hypothesis that increased metabolic formation of toxic one-carbon metabolites in diabetic patients contributes importantly to the development of various clinical complications.

Vitamin A supplementation for preventing morbidity and mortality in children from six months to five years of age.

Vitamin A deficiency (VAD) is a major public health problem in low- and middle-income countries, affecting 190 million children under five years of age and leading to many adverse health consequences, including death. Based on prior evidence and a previous version of this review, the World Health Organization has continued to recommend vitamin A supplementation (VAS) for children aged 6 to 59 months. The last version of this review was published in 2017, and this is an updated version of that review. To assess the effects of vitamin A supplementation (VAS) for preventing morbidity and mortality in children aged six months to five years. We searched CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase, six other databases, and two trials registers up to March 2021. We also checked reference lists and contacted relevant organisations and researchers to identify additional studies. Randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and cluster-RCTs evaluating the effect of synthetic VAS in children aged six months to five years living in the community. We excluded studies involving children in hospital and children with disease or infection. We also excluded studies evaluating the effects of food fortification, consumption of vitamin A rich foods, or beta-carotene supplementation. For this update, two review authors independently assessed studies for inclusion resolving discrepancies by discussion. We performed meta-analyses for outcomes, including all-cause and cause-specific mortality, disease, vision, and side effects. We used the GRADE approach to assess the quality of the evidence. The updated search identified no new RCTs. We identified 47 studies, involving approximately 1,223,856 children. Studies were set in 19 countries: 30 (63%) in Asia, 16 of these in India; 8 (17%) in Africa; 7 (15%) in Latin America, and 2 (4%) in Australia. About one-third of the studies were in urban/periurban settings, and half were in rural settings; the remaining studies did not clearly report settings. Most studies included equal numbers of girls and boys and lasted about one year. The mean age of the children was about 33 months. The included studies were at variable overall risk of bias; however, evidence for the primary outcome was at low risk of bias. A meta-analysis for all-cause mortality included 19 trials (1,202,382 children). At longest follow-up, there was a 12% observed reduction in the risk of all-cause mortality for VAS compared with control using a fixed-effect model (risk ratio (RR) 0.88, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.83 to 0.93; high-certainty evidence). Nine trials reported mortality due to diarrhoea and showed a 12% overall reduction for VAS (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.79 to 0.98; 1,098,538 children; high-certainty evidence). There was no evidence of a difference for VAS on mortality due to measles (RR 0.88, 95% CI 0.69 to 1.11; 6 studies, 1,088,261 children; low-certainty evidence), respiratory disease (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.86 to 1.12; 9 studies, 1,098,538 children; low-certainty evidence), and meningitis. VAS reduced the incidence of diarrhoea (RR 0.85, 95% CI 0.82 to 0.87; 15 studies, 77,946 children; low-certainty evidence), measles (RR 0.50, 95% CI 0.37 to 0.67; 6 studies, 19,566 children; moderate-certainty evidence), Bitot's spots (RR 0.42, 95% CI 0.33 to 0.53; 5 studies, 1,063,278 children; moderate-certainty evidence), night blindness (RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.21 to 0.50; 2 studies, 22,972 children; moderate-certainty evidence), and VAD (RR 0.71, 95% CI 0.65 to 0.78; 4 studies, 2262 children, moderate-certainty evidence). However, there was no evidence of a difference on incidence of respiratory disease (RR 0.99, 95% CI 0.92 to 1.06; 11 studies, 27,540 children; low-certainty evidence) or hospitalisations due to diarrhoea or pneumonia. There was an increased risk of vomiting within the first 48 hours of VAS (RR 1.97, 95% CI 1.44 to 2.69; 4 studies, 10,541 children; moderate-certainty evidence). This update identified no new eligible studies and the conclusions remain the same. VAS is associated with a clinically meaningful reduction in morbidity and mortality in children. Further placebo-controlled trials of VAS in children between six months and five years of age would not change the conclusions of this review, although studies that compare different doses and delivery mechanisms are needed. In populations with documented VAD, it would be unethical to conduct placebo-controlled trials.

The impact of vitamin and mineral supplements usage prior to COVID-19 infection on disease severity and hospitalization.

The COVID-19 pandemic has caused a global public health emergency. Nutritional status is suggested to be related to the severity of COVID-19 infection. Herein, we aimed to explore the impact of using vitamin and mineral supplements prior to COVID-19 infection on disease severity and hospitalization. In addition, the prior use of aspirin as an anticoagulant on the disease severity was investigated. A cross-sectional, self-administered survey was conducted between March and July 2021. Recovered COVID-19 individuals (age ≥ 18 years, n = 2148) were recruited in the study. A multivariate logistic regression was used to evaluate the associations of supplements and aspirin use with COVID-19 disease severity and hospitalization status. Among the participants, 12.1% reported symptoms consistent with severe COVID-19, and 10.2% were hospitalized due to COVID-19. After adjustment for confounding variables (age, gender, BMI, cigarette smoking status, and the number of comorbidities), the multivariate logistic regression model showed that the consumption of vitamin D supplements prior to COVID-19 infection was associated with a significant decrease in disease severity (OR = 0.68, 95% CI 0.50-0.92; p = 0.01), and a lower risk of hospitalization (OR = 0.64, 95% CI 0.45-0.89; p = 0.01). On the other hand, there were no significant differences in the frequencies of severe illness and hospitalizations with the consumption of vitamin A, folic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin B complex, vitamin C, zinc, iron, selenium, calcium, magnesium, omega 3, and aspirin before COVID-19 infection. Among the investigated nutrients, the use of vitamin D prior to COVID-19 infection was associated with reduced disease severity and hospitalization. However, more studies are required to confirm this finding.

The association of dietary inflammatory index, functional foods and some antioxidants intake with COVID-19 vaccine side effects in Iranian adults

Purpose This study aims to assess the association of dietary inflammatory index (DII), consumption of functional food and some antioxidants with COVID-19 vaccine side effects in Iranian adults. Design/methodology/approach This was a case–control study conducted among the 1,067 Iranian adults who were invited to participate through WhatsApp software. The dietary intake was assessed using the food frequency questionnaire. Findings There was a significant difference (p = 0.04) in vitamin D consumption between healthy people and persons with a vaccine side effect. Vitamin E intake in healthy participants was significantly (p = 0.04) more than case group. There was a significant difference in the consumption of zinc (p = 0.01), selenium (p = 0.02) and vitamin C (p = 0.02), between persons without vaccine side effects and the case group. Consumption of onion (82.5 ± 9.5 g/day vs 32.2 ± 6.3; p = 0.0001), garlic (6 ± 0.3 g/day vs 0.2 ± 0.08; p = 0.0001) and oat (2.2 ± 0.05 g/day vs 0.5 ± 0.01; p = 0.001) in the control group was significantly more than persons with vaccine side effects. With the increase in each unit in the score of the DII, the risk of COVID-19 vaccine side effect incidence increased 1.7 times (OR = 1.7; 95% CI: 1.3–1.8). Originality/value To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this study is the first that investigated the association between functional food intake and side effects of the COVID-19 vaccine.

Vitamin D Status and Health Outcomes in School Children in Northern Ireland: Year One Results from the D-VinCHI Study.

(1) Background: Vitamin D status has never been investigated in children in Northern Ireland (UK). (2) Methods: Children (4–11 years) (n = 47) were recruited from November 2019 to March 2020 onto the cross-sectional study. Anthropometry was assessed. Plasma 25-hydroxyvitamin D (25(OH)D) was analysed. Vitamin D intake, parental knowledge and perceptions, participant habits, physical activity and sedentary behaviour were established via questionnaire. Muscle strength was assessed via isometric grip strength dynamometry and balance via dominant single-leg and tandem stance. Parathyroid hormone, bone turnover markers (OC, CTX and P1NP), glycated haemoglobin and inflammatory markers (CRP, IFN-γ, IL-10, IL-12p70, IL-13, IL-1β, IL-2, IL-4, IL-6, IL-8 and TNF-α) were analysed. (3) Results: Mean (SD) 25(OH)D was 49.17 (17.04) nmol/L (n = 47); 44.7% of the children were vitamin D sufficient (25(OH)D >50 nmol/L), 48.9% were insufficient (25–50 nmol/L) and 6.4% were deficient (<25 nmol/L). 25(OH)D was positively correlated with vitamin D intake (µg/day) (p = 0.012, r = 0.374), spring/summer outdoor hours (p = 0.006, r = 0.402) and dominant grip strength (kg) (p = 0.044, r = 0.317). Vitamin D sufficient participants had higher dietary vitamin D intake (µg/day) (p = 0.021), supplement intake (µg/day) (p = 0.028) and spring/summer outdoor hours (p = 0.015). (4) Conclusion: Over half of the children were vitamin D deficient or insufficient. Wintertime supplementation, the consumption of vitamin D rich foods and spring/summer outdoor activities should be encouraged to minimise the risk of vitamin D inadequacy.

COVID-19 CONFINEMENT CHANGED DIETARY BEHAVIOUR IN INDONESIA

Pandemic has affected various sectors and caused alteration in many fields. Dietary behaviour might change due to COVID-19 pandemic. Previous studies related to dietary behaviour during COVID-19 pandemic had been done in several countries. However, there is limited study on consumption pattern in Indonesia during pandemic. Our work focused on observing the changes in dietary behaviour of Indonesian during COVID-19 confinement. In order to reach the purpose, a cross-sectional study was conducted by using online questionnaire distributed using social media. The information of respondents related to socio-demographic and situation during confinement were gathered. Furthermore, respondents were also inquired about the consumption of vegetable, fruit, supplement and vitamin, soft drink, snack, and jamu or empon-empon during COVID-19 confinement. The results will be useful for industries and government due to the lack of information related to dietary behaviour during COVID-19 confinement in Indonesia. The results found an increasing and decreasing consumption of certain food group due to economic situation, stress and anxiety, and also food accessibility. COVID-19 confinement also changed the way in preparing meal. This condition was also affected by the increasing of respondents’ awareness on healthier lifestyle. A longer observation accompanied by Body Mass Index information is able to illustrate the impact of dietary behaviour during COVID-19 pandemic on chronic disease tendency.

100 YEARS OF VITAMIN D: Supraphysiological doses of vitamin D changes brainwave activity patterns in rats.

Low plasma levels of vitamin D causes bone mineral change that can precipitate osteopenia and osteoporosis and could aggravate autoimmune diseases, hypertension and diabetes. The demand for vitamin D supplementation becomes necessary; however, the consumption of vitamin D is not without risks, which its toxicity could have potentially serious consequences related to hypervitaminosis D, such as hypercalcemia and cerebral alterations. Thus, the present study describes the electroencephalographic changes caused by supraphysiological doses of vitamin D in the brain electrical dynamics and the electrocardiographic changes. After 4 days of treatment with vitamin D at a dose of 25,000 IU/kg, the serum calcium levels found were increased in comparison with the control group. The electrocorticogram analysis found a reduction in wave activity in the delta, theta, alpha and beta frequency bands. For ECG was observed changes with shortened QT follow-up, which could be related to serum calcium concentration. This study presented important evidence about the cerebral and cardiac alterations caused by high doses of vitamin D, indicating valuable parameters in the screening and decision-making process for diagnosing patients with symptoms suggestive of intoxication.