Dark Green Leafy Vegetables Research Articles

Food environment change on wild food consumption in rural Tanzania

In this longitudinal study we explore how changes in food environments have shaped the acquisition and consumption of wild foods among people living near forests. Our study conceptually improves food environment frameworks by including evidence on changes in wild food consumption. We used data collected in both the dry and rainy seasons in 2009 and 2021/2022 in four villages in the East Usambara Mountains, Tanzania. Across data collections, we conducted qualitative interviews, focus groups and repeated household surveys, including questions on dietary intake, food sources, agricultural practices, and use of wild resources. We found that the proportion of people who collected wild foods within the past seven days had declined from 90 to 61% in the dry season and from 99 to 72% in the wet season. The main reasons were 1) decreased availability caused by, for example, loss of biodiversity, 2) lack of access due to government forest regulations, and 3) increased desirability towards marked-based foods. Our results show how changes in both availability, access and desirability of wild foods have shifted dietary choices from wild foods towards cultivated and purchased foods. Also, we see less widespread consumption of sentinel food groups such as dark green leafy vegetables. Our results highlight the need for an additional dimension in existing food environment frameworks: “Legal access to wild resources” that would cover access to wild foods. This dimension is important as loss of legal access and declining consumption can have negative dietary implications, since the most commonly consumed wild foods, such as leafy vegetables, are nutritionally important.

Mapping every adult baobab (Adansonia digitata L.) across the Sahel and relationships to rural livelihoods.

The baobab tree (Adansonia digitata L.) is an integral part of rural livelihoods throughout the African continent. However, the combined effects of climate change and increasing global demand for baobab products are currently exerting pressure on the sustainable utilization of these resources. Here we use sub-metre-resolution satellite imagery to identify the presence of nearly 2.8 million (underestimation bias 27.1%) baobab trees in the Sahel, a dryland region of 2.4 million km2. This achievement is considered an essential step towards an improved management and monitoring system of valuable woody species. Using Senegal as a case country, we find that 94% of rural buildings have at least one baobab tree in their immediate surroundings and that the abundance of baobabs is associated with a higher likelihood of people consuming a highly nutritious food group: dark green leafy vegetables. The generated database showcases the feasibility of mapping the location of single tree species at a sub-continental scale, providing vital information in times when deforestation and climate change cause the extinction of numerous tree species.

Associations between maternal dietary intake and nutritional status with fetal growth at 14 to 26 weeks gestation: a cross- sectional study

BackgroundMaternal undernutrition during pregnancy is currently estimated at 23.5% in Africa, which is worrying given the negative impacts of malnutrition on maternal and fetal birth outcomes. The current study aimed at characterizing the associations of maternal dietary intake and nutritional status with fetal growth at 14–26 weeks gestation. It was hypothesized that maternal dietary intake was positively associated with maternal nutritional status and fetal growth both in early and late pregnancy.MethodsThis was a cross-sectional survey of 870 pregnant women in mid-western Uganda conducted in August 2013. Data were collected on women’s dietary intake (indicated by women’s dietary diversity and the diet quality score) and nutritional status (indicated by hemoglobin level and mid-upper arm circumference) at 14–26 weeks gestation. Fetal growth was determined by symphysis-fundal height Z-scores processed using the INTERGROWTH-21st calculator. Associations between maternal dietary intake and nutritional status with fetal growth were determined using correlations and chi-square tests.ResultsOverall, only 25% had adequate dietary diversity and the most utilized food groups were White tubers, roots and starchy vegetables; Pulses, nuts and seeds; Cereals and grains, Dark green leafy vegetables, and Fats and oils. A larger proportion of younger women (15–29 y) were classified as anemic (20.4% versus 4.4%) and underweight (23.7% versus 5.0%) compared to older women (30–43 y). Additionally, women aged 15 to 24 years had significantly lower mean SFH-for-gestation age Z-scores than women 36–43 years (F4, 783 = 3.129; p = 0.014). Consumption of legumes nuts and seeds was associated with reduced risk of anemia while consumption of dairy products (mostly milk) was positively associated with better fetal growth. Surprisingly, low Hb level was positively associated with normal fetal growth (rP = -0.133; p = 0.016) after 20 weeks gestation, possibly indicating normal fetal growth paralleled with physiologically necessary hemodilution.ConclusionsSub-optimal dietary patterns, characterized by limited dietary diversity and low protein intake, are likely to compromise maternal nutrition and fetal growth in limited resource settings. Improving pregnant women’s access to cheaper but nutrient-dense protein sources such as pulses, nuts and dairy products (mostly milk) has potential to improve women’s nutritional status and enhance fetal growth.

Associations Between Food Insecurity and Diet Quality Among Graduate Students and Postdoctoral Trainees in the Health Sciences at a Private University in Boston: A Cross-Sectional Study

BackgroundFood insecurity is a pivotal determinant of health outcomes. Little evidence exists on the association between food insecurity and health behaviors and outcomes, including diet quality, among graduate students or postdoctoral trainees. ObjectivesThis study aimed to examine the association between food insecurity and diet quality among graduate students and postdoctoral trainees at 3 health-focused graduate schools (public health, medical, and dental medicine) within Harvard University. MethodsBetween April and June 2023, 1287 graduate students and 458 postdoctoral trainees at the health-focused schools within Harvard University completed a web-based survey. The primary exposure was food security status, assessed using the United States Household Food Security Survey Module. The primary outcome was diet quality, measured using the 30-day Prime Diet Quality Score screener (ranges from 0 to 126, with higher scores indicating healthier diets). The associations between food insecurity and diet quality were examined using multivariable regression models, adjusting for sociodemographic covariates. ResultsAmong graduate students, compared with those with high food security, diet quality was significantly lower among those experiencing marginal food security [β: −4.7; 95% confidence interval (CI): −6.5, −2.9], low food security (β: −5.4; 95% CI: −7.6, −3.3), and very low food security (β: −4.4; 95% CI: −7.4, −1.4). Poor diet quality included lower intake frequencies of vegetables, fruits, beans/peas/soy products, nuts/seeds, poultry, fish, low-fat dairy, and liquid oils, and higher intake frequencies of refined grains/baked products, sugar-sweetened beverages, and fried foods. Among postdoctoral trainees, compared with those with high food security, diet quality was significantly lower among those experiencing low food security (β: −5.1; 95% CI: −8.8, −1.4), and very low food security (β: −5.2; 95% CI: −10.2, −0.2). Poor diet quality included lower intake frequencies of dark green leafy vegetables, other fruits, and whole grains. ConclusionsGraduate students and postdoctoral trainees who experienced degrees of food insecurity reported lower diet quality. These observations underscore the need for policies and interventions to simultaneously reduce food insecurity and improve diet quality.

Design of a multidimensional diet quality score for a global sustainable healthy diet based on plant food variety, intake of animal products and dietary contribution of ultra-processed foods (SUSDIET)

A range of metrics have been developed and used to measure components of dietary patterns (e.g., adequacy, quality, diversity). However, no existing dietary metric simultaneously captures the three key dimensions of sustainable healthy diets recommended by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations and the World Health Organization: food processing; dietary diversity; and intake of animal products(1). This study aimed to identify indicators of a global sustainable healthy diet and translate these features into a multidimensional diet quality score (SUSDIET). Informed by our scoping review(1), a Delphi method was adopted in the form of a three-round online survey of 13 national and international experts in nutritional epidemiology, environmental health, dietary assessment and/or food and nutrition policy. Surveys were conducted between November 2022 and May 2023. Participants were asked about procedures to establish an operational definition for a global sustainable healthy diet. Based on consensus from global experts, we developed the SUSDIET, a food-based diet quality score incorporating variety of plant foods, intake of animal products, and dietary contribution of ultra-processed foods (the ‘dimensions’). Categories and amounts of foods consumed were informed by the Global Diet Quality Score(2), EAT Lancet Planetary Health(3) and a meta-analysis of the relationship between ultra-processed foods and all-cause mortality(4). The variety of plant foods is measured based on 12 food groups (citrus fruits, deep orange fruits, other fruits, dark green leafy vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, deep orange vegetables, other vegetables, legumes, deep orange tubers, nuts and seeds, whole grains, white roots and tubers), animal intake based on 5 food groups (egg, dairy, poultry, fish and seafood, red meat), and ultra-processed foods as one food group. Three categories of consumed amounts (in grams per day) are defined for variety of plant foods and animal intake, scoring as 0, 0.5 or 1. Ultra-processed food consumption is scored as 0 or 1 using ≤10% or >10% of total dietary intake as cut-offs. The components of each dimension are weighted so the three dimensions equally range from 0-5. SUSDIET overall score ranges from 0-15 (up to 5 points per dimension), with a higher score indicating a more healthy and sustainable diet. SUSDIET will be of immediate use for research aiming to assess the impact of diets on both health and environmental sustainability outcomes among the general adult population. This multidimensional diet quality score can also be used to inform and assess the effectiveness of policy actions that promote sustainable healthy diets, including the monitoring and surveillance of diets globally.

Dietary diversity and its determinants among women of reproductive age residing in the urban area of Nouakchott, Mauritania

BackgroundThe intake of nutrient-rich foods from diverse diets ensures adequate nutrition for women. This study aims to determine dietary diversity among women of reproductive age (WRA) using the MDD-W indicator and how it relates to their socio-economic characteristics in the city of Nouakchott, Mauritania.MethodsA community-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 240 women of reproductive age, aged 15–49 years. Food consumption data were obtained through unquantified 24 h recall which is designed to identify all foods consumed by the women during this period. We computed MDD-W as the consumption of at least five out of ten predefined food groups according to the guideline of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. In order to determine which factors had a statistically significant influence on dietary diversity among women, we used a value of P < 0.05.ResultsThe mean of dietary diversity was 5.48 and 71.7% of WRA had an acceptable minimum dietary diversity. During the study period, 96.25% and 80% of women consumed vitamin A and iron-rich foods respectively. The consumption rate of starchy foods, vitamin A-rich fruits and vegetables, meat, fish and chicken, milk and dairy products, dark green leafy vegetables and finally other vegetables was higher; 99.6%, 75.3%, 80%, 62.5%, 60.4% and 83.3% respectively. On the other hand, the consumption of legumes, eggs and other fruits was low; at 21.7%, 14.2% and 13.8% respectively.ConclusionsThe study showed that more than half of the studied population had an acceptable minimum dietary diversity. The diet was mainly based on the consumption of starchy foods, meat and other vegetables than those rich in vitamin A.

A cross sectional study to assess anemia &amp; its determinants among pregnant women in a rural area of Maharashtra

Background: In India, anaemia prevalence is more than 40% so it is a severe public health problem. National Family Health Survey V indicates that prevalence of anaemia in pregnant women in Maharashtra’s rural areas is 46.5%. As the pregnant women have high prevalence of anaemia, it highlights the need to conduct research to find out the determinants and its preventive measures. Aim: To determine prevalence of anaemia and to assess its determinants amongst pregnant women in a rural area Methods: Three eighty-four pregnant women in a rural area of Thane district were selected for a community based descriptive cross-sectional study. Association between anaemia and variables in the study was established using Pearson‘s Chi- square test. For studying association between anaemia as dependent variable and various determinants as independent variables, binary logistic regression analysis was used. Results: Prevalence of anaemia was found to be 62.5%. 29.2% participants were mildly anaemic, 33.0% were moderately anaemic, 0.3% were severely anaemic and 37.5% were non-anaemic. Occurrence of anaemia was significantly associated with age, religion, gravida status, trimester, gestational age at first ANC visit, no consumption of IFA tablets, no consumption of dark green leafy vegetables and dietary habits. Conclusions: High prevalence of anaemia amongst pregnant women reflects poor utilization of health care services, lack of awareness about adequate dietary patterns and poor nutritional status. Anaemia is still a severe public health issue amongst pregnant women of rural areas.

Iron deficiency anemia in pediatric children at Kalmunai North Base Hospital, Sri Lanka

&lt;b&gt;Objective:&lt;/b&gt; This study's aim was to estimate association between the iron deficiency anemia (IDA) and associated risk factors among children at Kalmunai north in Sri Lanka during COVID-19. &lt;b&gt;Material and Methods: &lt;/b&gt;During the pandemic, 101 children aged between 1and 14 years were involved in the cross sectional study. Hemoglobin levels, serum ferritin and C-recactive protein (CRP) were measured to determine anemia. Additionally, dietary intake, socioeconomic status, and demographic information were collected through interviews with the caregivers. Chi-square tests and Pearson correlation were used to investigate connections between IDA and other factors such as demographic characteristics and eating habits. In addition, a multivariate regression analysis was performed to identify independent predictors of IDA. &lt;b&gt;Results:&lt;/b&gt; 7.9% of children were found to be anemic at Kalmunai Base Hospital. Low dietary iron consumption was revealed as a significant risk factor for IDA. Meat, liver, fish, chicken, fresh milk, dark green leafy vegetables, and black tea were found to be independent predictors of IDA, explaining 57.7% of the variation in IDA frequency (R&lt;sup&gt;2&lt;/sup&gt; value = 57.7%; P&amp;lt; 0.001). Consuming dark green leafy vegetables, poultry, liver, beef, and fish are linked to a lower incidence of IDA in children. On the other hand, a higher risk of IDA appears to be associated with increased consumption of fresh milk and black tea. In conclusion, this study focuses on Dietary factors, especially the consumption of particular foods, were found to be significant contributors of IDA, even if demographic parameters did not differ significantly from IDA. Strategies to increase iron intake and dietary diversity, particularly among young children, are critical in the fight against IDA.

Sisvan food intake markers from six to 23 months: critical analysis and validation.

To explore the internal structure and analyze evidence of measurement invariance of the Sisvan form of food intake markers of the Food and Nutrition Surveillance System (Sisvan) for children aged six to 23 months. Sisvan microdata from 2015 to 2019 were used. After analyzing sample adequacy, exploratory factor analysis was carried out considering factor loadings (≥ 0.30 and < 0.85), communality (> 0.20), model fit indices - Tucker-Lewis index (TLI) > 0.90, and root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) < 0.08. A critical analysis of the form items was performed to adjust the parameters. Measurement stability was investigated between age groups, macro-regions and longitudinally by multi-group confirmatory factor analysis in configural, metric, and scalar invariance models. Configural invariance was accepted if RMSEA < 0.08 and TLI and comparative fit index (CFI) > 0.90. Metric and scalar invariances were accepted if ΔRMSEA < 0.015 and ΔCFI < 0.01, compared to the previous model. After critical analysis, items were grouped (vegetables and leafy greens; meat or eggs and liver) and excluded (salty food; porridge with milk; rice, potatoes, yams, cassava, flour, or pasta). The exploratory model comprised three factors: healthy complementary feeding (fruit; vegetables; orange or dark green leafy vegetables or fruits; meat, offal, or egg; beans), ultra-processed (yogurt; hamburger and/or sausages; sweetened drinks; instant noodles, packet snacks, or salty cookies; sandwich cookies, sweets, or treats), and milk feeding (breast milk; other milk), with satisfactory factor loadings, communalities and fit (TLI: 0.918, RMSEA: 0.071). The reformulated instrument was stable in the invariance models tested. With the incorporation of the modifications to the Sisvan form, the food intake markers subsidize a more adequate interpretation of the feeding situation of children aged six to 23 months.

A Review of Microfiltration Membrane in Separating Folic Acid from Fermented Dark Green Leafy Vegetables (DGLVs), Legumes, Beans, and Cereal for Nutraceutical Application

DGLVs (spinach, broccoli), legumes (soybean, mung bean, kidney bean), and cereal (corn) are well recognized for human health benefits due to the presence of natural folate (vitamin B9) with essential micronutrients. Folate is among the most unstable vitamins for the normal functions of the human body. The recent development of membrane-based methods for the separation of folic acid (FA) is reviewed from the selected literature and covers the result of significant research that has been performed in the last five years on the use of the microfiltration (MF) method. This is coupled with the fermentation process to support and achieve separation or recovery of FA from their selected plant-based food source. The nixtamalization, fermentation, separation, and purification of DGLVs, legumes, and beans, as well as corn, were conducted using the MF (pore size 0.15 µm) membrane separation method. The results showed that the MF membrane was able to separate FA components in permeate from fermented spinach and broccoli, soybean, mung bean, kidney bean, and corn, namely 7.14 and 3.79, 197.00, 325.37 and 242.93, and 121.10 µg/mL, respectively. Meanwhile, FA content in retentate from fermented spinach and broccoli, soybean, mung bean, kidney bean, and corn was 58.90 and 28.10, 362.07, 254.07 and 506.07, and 212.84 µg/mL, respectively. The applications of membrane techniques were used as an alternative to some unit operations in the solving of separation issues as well as the development of selected new fermented plant-based food sources. The contemporary pressure-driven membranes, such as MF, and the main applications were related to pre-treatment, selected fermented plant-based food sources, and alternative technology for extending the shelf life of natural folate. The utilization of MF membranes in the nutraceutical field holds significant promise, particularly in the creation of value-added products from minor compounds.

Assessment of dietary intake of Vitamin A-rich foods and associated factors among lactating mothers attending Lunga Lunga Health Centre, in Sinai slum, Nairobi County, Kenya

Vitamin A deficiency is a problem of public health significance among lactating mothers. Low dietary intake of vitamin A results in inadequate vitamin A concentration in breastmilk, thereby putting the life of the breastfed child at risk. Food availability is critical for quality nutrition that leads to a balanced diet. The poor in urban areas spend most of their income on food yet do not meet their dietary needs. This study aimed to assess the dietary intake of vitamin A rich foods, prevalence of undernutrition and household food insecurity among lactating mothers (15-49 years) attending Lunga Lunga Health Centre from Sinai Slum, Nairobi, Kenya. This cross-sectional study was undertaken using systematic random sampling for 384 lactating mothers from April to June 2017. A structured questionnaire was used to obtain socio-demographic information. Dietary intake was assessed using a 24-hour recall and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Prevalence of undernutrition was determined through anthropometric measurements: Body Mass Index (BMI) and Mid Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC). Household food security was determined using food insecurity access scale and dietary diversity questionnaires. Statistical analysis was undertaken using Microsoft excel and SPSS. Chi-square test was used to determine for associations between inadequate intake of vitamin A, maternal undernutrition, household food security and socio-demographics. Logistic regression analysis determined the predictors of adequate dietary intake of vitamin A, undernutrition and food security. The mean age of the lactating mothers was 26.5 (SD 5.6) years. Majority (72.9%) had primary education while 57.6% were self-employed. Inadequate dietary intake of vitamin A was reported amongst 58.6% of the mothers, 31.3% had low MUAC&lt;220mm while 13.8% had low BMI. Mothers who consumed dark green leafy vegetables were 26.6% compared to those consuming fruits like bananas (18.2%), mangoes (13.3%), pineapple (10.7%) and papaya (8.3%). Fish formed the main source of proteins (18.8%), followed by meat (16.7%) and eggs (14.8%). Vitamin A intake had a significant association with income (p&lt;0.001), energy (p&lt;0.001), food insecurity (p&lt;0.001) and buying food (p&lt;0.001). Household Dietary Diversity Score (HDDS) had a significant association with low MUAC (χ2 = 1.694, p =0.031 and low BMI (χ2 = 3.039, p = 0.042). Lactating mothers from Sinai slum had inadequate dietary vitamin A intake, were under nourished and food insecure. Food security interventions: food-based strategies and policies that include Vitamin A food fortification aimed at increasing intake of Vitamin A rich food, campaigns for increased dietary diversity, alongside routine nutrition education among mothers should be emphasized to enhance their nutritional status and reduce micronutrient deficiencies. Key words: Vitamin A, Nutritional status, Slum, dietary diversity, Food Frequency

Dietary diversity during Covid-19 pandemic: A case of households in Lurambi and Malava sub-Counties, Kakamega County

Dietary diversity is a qualitative and proxy indicator of food security status. Social, physical, economic and biological factors, among others, may impact positively or negatively on the dietary diversity of a population. The aim of this study was to explore the food and dietary diversity in Malava and Lurambi sub-Counties of Kakamega County during COVID-19 pandemic. A descriptive survey design was used for data collection. The sample size was 200 households. A questionnaire that was designed and developed using KoBo Collect and synchronized to Open Data Kit (ODK) server was used to collect data. Data was analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences Version 26.0 to generate descriptive and inferential statistical data. Independent t-test statistics for mean differences was used to determine differences in Household Dietary Diversity Scores (HDDS) between Lurambi and Malava sub-Counties. The study results showed that grains and grain products and all other starchy foods recorded the highest HDDS (100%), followed by dark green leafy vegetables (90.1%) and fruits (46.7%). Foods with the lowest HDDS were meat and meat products (16.5%) and other vegetables (19.7%). Lurambi sub-County had a higher dietary diversity score during COVID-19 pandemic as compared to Malava sub-County. The HDDS scores showed that the dietary diversity for Lurambi sub-County was 3.8 and that of Malava sub-County was 3.2. The T-test results were significant at p= 0.02, &lt;0.05 at 95% CI. However, both sub-Counties had overall, a low HDDS as they did not reach the recommended dietary diversity of consuming foods from at least five food groups. Consequently, the overall low HDDS in both sub-Counties could imply that households did not have access to nutritious food during the COVID-19 pandemic. The study concluded that during COVID-19 pandemic, households in Kakamega had low HDDS and hence, establishing strategies for enhancing dietary diversity to improve food access during and beyond any pandemic was key. Key words: Dietary diversity, COVID-19, household food access, food security

Dietary diversity and micronutrient rich food consumption patterns among women of reproductive age in Kayunga and Jinja, Uganda

The diets of women of reproductive age (WRA) in low-income countries have been reported to be inadequate in micronutrients which lead to undernutrition. The foods commonly consumed by women are usually starchy plant-based cereals, roots and tubers which are limited in micronutrients. Amidst Uganda producing abundance of fruits and vegetables which are sources of micronutrients, it seems that consumption patterns have a role to play. The aim of this study was, therefore, to evaluate the prevailing diets of women of reproductive age in Kayunga and Jinja districts. A cross- sectional study was conducted in August 2019. Four hundred and ninety two (492) women of reproductive age were purposively selected from the two sub-counties to participate in the study. A 24-hour recall questionnaire was used estimate the women’s minimum dietary diversity for women of reproductive age (MDD-W) and it is contribution towards meeting micronutrient requirements. Means were computed for continuous variables, while proportions were computed for the descriptive variables that were placed under different themes and categories. Results revealed that more than 80% of women did not achieve the minimum dietary diversity. Less than 50% of the women consumed foods from plant and animal protein rich food groups that are major sources of iron, zinc, calcium, and vitamin B-12. In addition, more than 80% of the women’s diets lacked vitamin A- rich fruits and vegetables and dark green leafy vegetables which are the rich food group sources for vitamin A and folate. Therefore, over 80% of the women in Kayunga and Jinja districts did not obtain the required micronutrients for their good health and that of their children and thus, are at risk of poor health due to micronutrient deficiencies. It is recommended to have nutrition education coupled with demonstrations to mothers on how to prepare a diversified diet. Key words: Women, dietary diversity, food groups, micronutrients, nutrient adequacy

Oxidative balance score and dietary phytochemical index can reduce the risk of colorectal cancer in Iranian population

BackgroundNo previous study has assessed the association between oxidative balance score (OBS) and dietary phytochemical index (DPI) with colorectal cancer (CRC) simultaneously. Therefore, this study investigated the association between OBS and DPI with the odds of CRC among the Iranian population.MethodsThis hospital-based age and sex-matched case–control study was conducted between September 2008 and January 2010 (142 controls and 71 cases were entered for analysis). New diagnosed CRC cases were selected from the Cancer Institute, Imam Khomeini Hospital of Tehran. Dietary intakes were determined by a semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ). Then, dietary indices were calculated by food items and nutrient intake. Logistic regression was utilized for assessing the tertiles of OBS and DPI.ResultsIn multivariate analysis, OBS was associated with a 77% reduction in CRC odds in the last tertile than the first tertile (odds ratio (OR) = 0.23, confidence interval (CI): 0.07–0.72, Ptrend = 0.017). Also, we found a 64% reduction in CRC odds in the last tertile of DPI compared to the first tertile (OR = 0.36, CI: 0.15–0.86, Ptrend = 0.015).ConclusionsA diet rich in phytochemicals and anti-oxidants, including fruits and vegetables (citrus fruits, colored berries, and dark-green leafy vegetables) and whole grains, may reduce the CRC odds.

Marginalised social groups differentials in nutritional status (BMI) among reproductive-aged women in West Bengal

BackgroundSCs and STs, historically marginalized communities in India, have been subjected to social and economic discrimination for centuries. Despite affirmative action policies, these communities face systemic discrimination and exclusion in various aspects of their lives. Poor health conditions among SC and ST women are caused by insufficient consumption of nutritious food, leading to undernutrition and related health issues. To address gaps in the literature regarding the nutritional status of these women, this study aims to compare the BMI of SC and ST women in West Bengal and investigate the factors affecting their BMI. The study's findings can inform targeted interventions to improve the nutritional status of SC and ST women in West Bengal and reduce disparities in their health outcomes.Materials and methodsThis study analyzed data from the National Family Health Survey (NFHS-5) to examine the distribution of underweight and non-underweight SC and ST women in West Bengal. The sample included 5,961 non-pregnant reproductive-aged SC women and 1,496 non-pregnant reproductive-aged ST women. A binary logistic regression model was used to determine how background characteristics affect the nutritional status (BMI) of respondents, while a multivariate decomposition analysis was conducted to identify the covariates contributing to the nutritional status difference between SC and ST women. QGIS 2.18.25 software was utilized to map the spatial distribution of underweight and non-underweight SC and ST reproductive-aged women.ResultsThis study examines the nutritional status and differential background characteristics among SC and ST women in West Bengal, India. Results show that undernutrition affects the ST population more than the SC population, with age, marital status, religion, place of residence, educational status, and wealth quintile being significant factors affecting nutritional status. Food and dietary habits also impact nutritional status, with milk or curd, pulses or beans, dark green leafy vegetables, eggs, and fish being associated with lower rates of underweight. Binary logistic regression analysis reveals significant associations between socio-demographic factors and underweight status among SC and ST women. Socio-demographic factors were found to be the major contributors to the gap between SC and ST women, followed by food and dietary factors. The study highlights the need for targeted interventions to improve the nutritional status of marginalized communities like SC and ST women in West Bengal.ConclusionThe study highlights a significant population suffering from underweight in West Bengal, with socio-economic factors and dietary habits significantly contributing to the nutritional gap between SC and ST reproductive-aged women. Policy implications suggest targeted interventions to improve access to education and employment opportunities and promote a healthy and balanced diet to reduce the gap. Future studies could explore vulnerability risks of these domains.

Dietary intake and socio-economic predictors of inadequate energy and nutrient intake among women of childbearing age in Karamoja sub-region of Uganda

BackgroundKaramoja sub-region is the most food insecure part of Eastern Africa. The poor status of food security in the sub-region is reflected in the high rate of undernutrition among women of childbearing age (WCBA) and children under 5 years (CUFY). The sub-region is unique in Uganda in terms of cultural diversity, agro-ecology and rainfall pattern and agricultural practices. However, the influence of these unique characteristics on dietary intake of WCBA in the sub-region is less understood. Therefore, this study examined dietary intake and socio-economic predictors of inadequate energy and nutrient intake among WCBA in Karamoja sub-region.MethodsA longitudinal study design was used involving 755 WCBA in the harvesting season where 635 were followed-up in the planting season. Data were collected using 24-h recall, dietary diversity and socio-economic and demographic questionnaires.ResultsIntake of energy and nutrients were generally significantly higher (p < 0.05) during the planting season than in the harvesting season. Irrespective of the district, physiological status and season, household consumption of plant-based foods was far higher than intake of animal-based foods dominated by starchy stables (76–100%), dark green leafy vegetables (70–100%) and legumes, nuts and seeds (22–97%) depending on the district. Majority of the respondents had two meals (breakfast: 65–100%; supper: 90–100%) with up to 45% of WCBA who consumed alcohol across meal times. .Overall on average, 57.7, 66.6, 78.5, 60.3, 67.7 and 93.7% of WCBA did not meet the recommended daily allowance (RDA) for energy, protein, calcium, iron, zinc and folic acid, respectively. Binary logistic regression revealed that inadequate intake of energy and nutrients significantly increased (p < 0.05) with the status of being lactating/breastfeeding and was influenced by age of WCBA, number of women married, education level and occupation of the household head depending on season.ConclusionsThis study demonstrated that dietary intake of WCBA in Karamoja sub-region was inadequate. Age of WCBA, number of women married, education level and occupation of the household head and spouse and being a lactating/breastfeeding mother were the key socio-economic and demographic factors that influenced inadequate intake of energy and nutrients among WCBA.

Socioeconomic inequalities in food purchasing practices and expenditure patterns: Results from a cross-sectional household survey in western Kenya.

Socioeconomic inequalities contribute to poor health. Inequitable access to diverse and healthy foods can be a risk factor for non-communicable diseases, especially in individuals of low socioeconomic status. We examined the extent of socioeconomic inequalities in food purchasing practices, expenditure, and consumption in a resource-poor setting in Kenya. We conducted a secondary analysis of baseline cross-sectional data from a natural experimental study with a sample size of 512 individuals from 376 households in western Kenya. Data were collected on household food sources, expenditure and food consumption. Household socioeconomic status (SES) was assessed using the multiple correspondence analysis (MCA) model. Concentration indices (Ci) and multivariable linear regression models were used to establish socioeconomic inequalities. About half (47.9%) of individuals achieved a minimum level of dietary diversity with the majority coming from wealthier households. The two most consumed food groups were grains and roots (97.5%, n = 499) and dark green leafy vegetables (73.8%, n = 378), but these did not vary by SES. The consumption of dark green leafy vegetables was similar across wealth quantiles (Ci = 0.014, p = 0.314). Overall, the wealthier households spent significantly more money on food purchases with a median of USD 50 (IQR = 60) in a month compared to the poorest who spent a median of USD 40 (IQR = 40). Of all the sources of food, the highest amount was spent at open-air markets median of USD 20 (IQR = 30) and the expenditure did not vary significantly by SES (Ci = 0.4, p = 0.684). The higher the socioeconomic status the higher the total amount spent on food purchases. In multivariable regression analysis, household SES was a significant determinant of food expenditure [Adjusted coefficient = 6.09 (95%confidence interval CI = 2.19, 9.99)]. Wealthier households spent more money on food compared to the poorest households, especially on buying food at supermarkets. Individuals from the poorest households were dominant in eating grains and roots and less likely to consume a variety of food groups, including pulses, dairy, eggs and fruits, and vegetables. Individuals from the poorest households were also less likely to achieve adequate dietary diversity. Deliberate policies on diet and nutrition are required to address socioeconomic inequalities in food purchasing practices.

Dietary Diversity and Nutritional Status of Adolescents in Rural Ghana.

The rapid biological and physical changes during adolescence require adequate nutrient intake. This study assessed dietary diversity and nutritional status of adolescents living in selected rural areas in Ghana. In this cross-sectional study, 137 young adolescents, aged 10 to 14 years were recruited. Structured questionnaire was used to collect data on sociodemographic, household size and food intake practices. A multiple past 24-hour recall was used to estimate the micronutrients intake. Haemoglobin and anthropometry data were assessed. Dietary diversity score was assessed with 10 food groups described by Food and Agricultural Organization. Descriptive, chi-square, binary regression and partial correlation were used in the data analysis. The prevalence of underweight was 5.5%, overweight 5.8% and anaemia 29.9%. The mean dietary diversity score was 3.8 ± 0.8 and about 84.7% of participants had inadequate dietary diversity. Proportions of adolescents who consumed from the different food groups over a 24-hour period were: grains, white roots and tubers, plantain (100%); pulses (10.2%); nuts and seeds (34.1%); dairy (8%); meat, poultry and fish (86.9%); eggs (7.3%); dark green leafy vegetables (29.9%); other vitamin-A rich fruits and vegetables (2.2%); other vegetables (81%); other fruits (7.3%). Dietary diversity scores were positively and significantly correlated with intake of micronutrient, with correlation coefficients of .169, .186, .191, .173 and .175 for vitamin A, niacin, vitamin B6, iron and zinc, respectively. Meal skipping (AOR = 12.2, P < .001, 95% CI: 3.6-41.7) and snacking (AOR = 5.0, P = .007, 95% CI:1.6-16.7) increased odds of inadequate dietary diversity. The high prevalence of inadequate dietary diversity was positively related to meal skipping and snacking among adolescents. Dietary diversity score was significantly related to the intake of vitamin A, niacin, vitamin B6, iron and zinc. The prevalence of anaemia among our study participants is of public health concern. Adolescents should be encouraged both at home and school to eat from diverse food groups to promote adequate intake of micronutrients.

Beneficial Impact of Folic Acid Against Eco-Physiological Toxicity Induced By Potassium Bromate In Male Rats

Potassium bromate (KBrO3) used in both the food and cosmetics industry, and a drinking water disinfection. Strong oxidizer KBrO3 has been employed in the milling of flour. It is a substance that is nephrotoxic and carcinogenic. Acute renal failure and the potential for injury to the reproductive systems were both associated with the therapy KBrO3. Food naturally contains folic acid, especially dark green leafy vegetables. The study aimed to investigation the effects of folic acid supplementation on the KBrO3 toxicity. Animals were randomly divided into four groups: group I control; group II received daily potassium bromate administration (200 mg/kg bw); group III received daily folic acid administration (40 mg/kg); and group IV received daily administration of 200 mg/kg potassium bromate and 40 mg/kg folic acid, respectively. Blood samples were examined for levels of creatine kinase (CK-MB), troponin, lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine, urea, luteinizing hormone (LH), testosterone, and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH). The experimental animals administered by PB had a substantial increase in CK-MB, troponin, LDH, creatinine, urea, and FSH whereas all experimental rats had a drop in LH and testosterone levels in accordance with the toxicity of potassium bromate. The administration of folic acid had a protective effect on the group of rats treated concurrently with potassium bromate and folic acid. . The heart, kidney, and testis tissues underwent histological examinations, which supported the biochemical findings that the heart, kidney, and testis of KBrO3-treated animals had experienced significant extensive damage. In conclusion, these results show that KBrO3 has serious damaging effects on experimental animals and therefore, its use should be avoided. These dangerous effects should stop its use in human being.

Prevalence of vitamin E inadequacy, dietary intake and sources of alpha-tocopherol, and predictors of alpha- and gamma-tocopherol status in adolescent girls in Central Mozambique.

An adequate alpha-tocopherol status is important for females at reproductive age. We studied the dietary intake and sources of alpha-tocopherol and alpha- and gamma-tocopherol status indicators in 14-19-year-old girls in Central Mozambique. We also explored factors associated with alpha- and gamma-tocopherol status. The participants (n 508) were from the cross-sectional ZANE Study that was conducted in 2010. We recruited two separate samples, one in January-February and the other in May-June. We collected venous blood samples and conducted 24 h dietary recall interviews. At the time of blood sampling, 11% of participants were pregnant and 10% were lactating. In the total sample, both seasons combined, the median intake of alpha-tocopherol was 6⋅7 mg/d, the mean plasma alpha- and gamma-tocopherol concentrations were 13⋅5 and 0⋅75 μmol/l, respectively, and the prevalence of vitamin E inadequacy (alpha-tocopherol <12 μmol/l) was 36⋅7% (95% CI: 31⋅9-42⋅0%). Season and lactation status were significant predictors of alpha-tocopherol status regardless of which the three indicators (plasma concentration, alpha-tocopherol:total cholesterol ratio, gamma-tocopherol:alpha-tocopherol ratio) were used. Being a lactating mother was negatively associated and having a blood sample taken in January-February, when the main sources of alpha-tocopherol were mango and dark green leafy vegetables, was positively associated with alpha-tocopherol status. In conclusion, vitamin E inadequacy was common in Central Mozambique, and the status may fluctuate due to seasonal changes in the diet. We suggest that lactating mothers are specifically at risk of poor alpha-tocopherol status in resource-poor settings.