Micronutrient Deficiencies Research Articles

Dietary diversity and its associated factors among adolescent girls in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

BackgroundEven though fragmented and inconsistent findings have been reported in Ethiopia, adolescence is a period of rapid growth following infancy and is severely affected by micronutrient deficiencies, food insecurity, and poor-quality diets. Therefore, the aim of this meta-analysis was to estimate the pooled prevalence of dietary diversity and its associated factors among adolescent girls in Ethiopia.MethodsInternational databases such as EMBASE, Hinari, Scopus, PubMed, Google Scholar, and direct Google searches were systematically used to search for articles and reports. The Newcastle-Ottawa Scale, modified as appropriate, was used for cross-sectional studies to assess the quality of the included articles and reports. A Microsoft Excel sheet was used for data extraction and then exported into STATA version 17 for further analysis. The pooled prevalence of dietary diversity was estimated using a random effects meta-analysis approach. Egger’s and Begg’s tests were employed to evaluate publication bias.ResultsThe pooled prevalence of minimum dietary diversity among adolescent girls in Ethiopia was 43% (95% CI: 30, 56) with significant heterogeneity (I2 = 99.2%, p = 0.00). Urban residence (OR: 2.46), mother being a government employee (OR: 2.31), attending a private school (OR: 6.24), adolescent having formal maternal education (OR: 4.49), adolescent having formal paternal education (OR: 3.26), father being a government employee (OR: 3.50), father being a merchant employee (OR: 2.51), middle family wealth index (OR: 1.76), household food security (OR: 3.96), receiving nutrition counseling (OR: 2.46), and higher meal frequency (OR: 7.35) were significantly associated with minimum dietary diversity.ConclusionThe pooled prevalence of dietary diversity among adolescent girls was low. Factors significantly associated with achieving minimum dietary diversity included urban residence, higher parental education and employment in government, private school attendance, household wealth, food security, receiving nutrition counseling, and higher meal frequency. These findings emphasize the need to improve dietary diversity among rural adolescent girls and food insecure households. Establishing nutrition counseling services could enhance understanding and skills related to a varied diet.

Arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi (AMF) mediated biofortification of micronutrients, protein characteristics, and γ-aminobutyric acid in sorghum grown on vertisols in the central clay plains of Sudan

ABSTRACT Hidden hunger and micronutrient deficiencies are critical global challenges, particularly in developing nations. Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF) enhance plant nutrient uptake and may provide a sustainable solution. This study evaluated the impact of locally sourced AMF inocula on the nutritional quality of four sorghum cultivars grown on vertisols in Sudan’s central clay plains. A split-plot field trial at two locations assessed AMF inoculation (main plot factor) and sorghum cultivars (sub-plot factor) across three replicates. AMF inoculation significantly improved grain crude protein (10.5% to 11.9%), in-vitro protein digestibility (60.8 to 69.9 g/100 g), protein solubility (4.0 to 4.9 g/100 g), and γ-aminobutyric acid (GABA) content (0.6 to 2.1 mg/g). Total and bioavailable iron and zinc levels in AMF-treated grains (40.6% and 40.3%, respectively) exceeded those in non-treated grains (36.3% and 35.8%, respectively). Phytate content, an anti-nutrient, decreased significantly (339.9 to 238.2 mg/100 g) with AMF, showing an inverse relationship with micronutrient levels. Partial least squares regression analysis identified cultivar P954063 with AMF inoculation at Medani as optimal for enhancing grain nutritional quality. These findings highlight the potential of locally produced AMF inoculum to alleviate micronutrient deficiencies in Sudan and similar regions.

The Nutrient–Skin Connection: Diagnosing Eating Disorders Through Dermatologic Signs

The interplay between nutrition and skin health provides a crucial lens for understanding, diagnosing, and managing eating disorders (EDs) such as anorexia nervosa (AN), bulimia nervosa (BN), and binge-eating disorder (BED). This review explores the dermatological manifestations resulting from the nutritional deficiencies commonly associated with EDs, including conditions like hair loss, xerosis, and brittle nails. These changes in the skin and its appendages often reflect deeper systemic dysfunctions, such as deficiencies in essential micronutrients (zinc, iron, and vitamins A and C), hormonal imbalances, and electrolyte disturbances. Recognizing these dermatological signs as diagnostic tools is vital for the early identification and intervention of EDs. By integrating dermatological observations with psychiatric and nutritional care, a holistic, multidisciplinary approach can be developed to address both the physical and psychological complexities of EDs. This review highlights the critical role of these skin-related markers in promoting timely diagnosis and effective treatment. To examine the relationship between specific nutrients and dermatological manifestations in EDs, a systematic review of three electronic databases—PubMed, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate—was conducted. The findings underline the importance of early recognition of these skin symptoms for effective management. Collaborative care involving dermatologists, psychiatrists, and nutritionists is essential for diagnosing and treating EDs. Such integrated efforts ensure a comprehensive approach to these multifaceted conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and enhancing overall care.

PENINGKATAN PENGETAHUAN MELALUI EDUKASI DALAM UPAYA MENGATASI ANEMIA PADA REMAJA PUTRI

One of the health problems in developed countries including Indonesia is the problem of nutrition in the form of micronutrient deficiencies such as anemia. Anemia is a condition of the body where the hemoglobin (Hb) level in the blood is lower. Based on the latest data from the 2023 Indonesian Health Survey (SKI) conducted by the Indonesian Ministry of Health, anemia is still a major health problem in Indonesia. The prevalence of anemia in women of childbearing age (15–49 years) was recorded at 27.2%. The most affected group is pregnant women with a prevalence of 48.9%, followed by adolescent girls at 32%. The main factors causing anemia in Indonesia include lack of iron intake, parasitic infections such as worms, and other chronic diseases. This condition can have an impact on academic performance, physical growth, and psychological well-being of female students. Based on these problems, community service activities were carried out at SMA Negeri 1 Meureubo through anemia counseling activities. The implementation time was on October 26, 2024. The target was female students of SMA 1 Meureubo

Vitamin and trace element status and growth in children with short bowel syndrome being weaned off parenteral nutrition.

Children with short bowel syndrome (SBS) are at increased risk of micronutrient deficiencies. We aimed to study weaning off parenteral nutrition (PN) as a risk factor for vitamin and trace element deficiencies and growth deficit. Children born between 2010 and 2019, treated for SBS in Helsinki University Hospital, were followed for their nutrition, growth, and vitamin and trace element biochemical status. Information on these as well as patient characteristics and intestinal anatomy were collected from electronic patient records. A total of 59 patients with SBS were identified. The weaning period was found to be a risk factor for micronutrient deficiencies and growth. Most frequent deficiencies were detected for vitamin K as suggested by prothrombin time (PT) (91% of patients), vitamin D (70%), and vitamin A (67%). Other deficiencies were less common with 44% for vitamin B12, 25% for selenium, 19% for copper, 24% for zinc, and 11% for vitamin E. For all the studied micronutrients, 3 months before to 1month postweaning had the highest rate of micronutrient deficiencies, except for vitamin B12, for which the highest proportion of deficiencies presented at 1-6 months postweaning. The weaning period from PN is a risk for micronutrient deficiencies. Regular monitoring and sufficient supplementation are essential for preventing malnutrition.

Vitamin D and other micronutrient deficiency prevention: the role of data in informing national, regional, and global policy.

The World Health Organisation describes micronutrient deficiencies, or hidden hunger, as a form of malnutrition that occurs due to low intake and/or absorption of minerals and vitamins, putting human development and health at risk. In many cases, emphasis, effort, and even policy, revolves around the prevention of deficiency of one particular micronutrient in isolation. This is understandable as that micronutrient may be among a group of nutrients of public health concern. Vitamin D is a good exemplar. This review will highlight how the actions taken to tackle low vitamin D status have been highly dependent on the generation of new data and/or new approaches to analysis of existing data, to help develop the evidence-base, inform advice/guidelines, and in some cases, translate into policy. Beyond focus on individual micronutrients, there has also been increasing international attention around hidden hunger, or deficiencies of a range of micronutrients, which can exist unaccompanied by obvious clinical signs but can adversely affect human development and health. A widely quoted estimate of the global prevalence of hidden hunger is a staggering two billion people, but this is now over 30 years old. This review will outline how strategic data sharing and generation is seeking to address this key knowledge gap in relation to the true prevalence of hidden hunger in Europe, a key starting point towards defining sustainable and cost-effective, food-based strategies for its prevention. The availability of data on prevalence and food-based strategies can help inform public policy to eradicate micronutrient deficiency in Europe.

Methodologies of meat analogue production and nutritional perspectives: a review

With increasing global population and environmental concerns, the development of meat analogues, including plant-based proteins and cultivated meat, has become a solution for elevating global protein production and addressing sustainability issues. North America and Europe lead the meat analogue market, driven by elevated consumer awareness of health and environmental concerns. Under the influence of western diet, the Asian market is also poised for growth. While cultivated meat industry remains immature, advancements in production and cost reductions are expected to boost its market share over time. Although research on meat analogue methodology has increased in recent years, reviews that combine production methodologies and nutritional perspectives remain uncommon. This review comprehensively analyses the production methods, nutritional values, and market prospects of meat analogues. Meat analogue production has great potential in reducing water consumption, promoting sustainability, and improving animal welfare. Meat analogue provides high protein content and balanced amino acid profile, though certain micronutrient deficiencies due to production processes. This review outlines directions for further research in meat analogue production, emphasizing the importance of enhancing production efficiency and nutritional fortification to address food insecurity and environmental damage.

An Overview on Iron Deficiency Anaemia

"Anaemia’’ is defined as a collection of disorders caused by erythropoietin tissues' incapacity to maintain normal haemoglobin concentration due to insufficient availability of one or more nutrients, which lowers the amount of haemoglobin in circulation overall. It can be brought on by a poor vegetarian diet, iron malabsorption, hookworm infections, profuse bleeding during menstruation, or childbirth.Low birth weight, decreased immunological function, poor cognitive development, behavioural issues, decreased job ability, and maternal mortality are among the negative outcomes of anaemia. The most popular and sensitive initial diagnostic test for IDA is serum ferritin. The most effective methods of treating iron deficiency anaemia include dietary variety, supplementation, fortification of staple foods, and nutrition education. Keywords: Anaemia, iron deficiency, micronutrient deficiency, nutritional anaemia

Critical Analysis of Nutritional Factors in Disease Epidemiology and Prevention

The burden of NCDs, including obesity, diabetes, CVDs, and some cancers, has upped the importance of nutrition in the health of a nation. Malnutrition and over nutrition, which are the major nutritional factors, play important roles in disease distribution in the world. With regard to the analysis of this paper, the author has given a critical perspective on how dietary habits, socioeconomic factors, and cultural practices are determinants of the epidemiology of diseases. Therefore, the present paper employs a literature review, epidemiological data, and case studies to unveil the connection between diet and disease as well as the way forward. Some of the discoveries made include understanding that poor diets are the leading causes of NCDs, micronutrient deficiencies are still a problem with the poor, and processed foods are very much a threat. The discussion reviews the difficulties in shifting to a healthier diet. It presents solutions for the economic issue and the behavioral modification problem in policy-making, healthcare approaches, and public health practice.

Nutrition-sensitive climate risk across food production systems

Abstract Global nutrition targets remain unmet, as over half of preschool-aged children and two-thirds of non-pregnant women of reproductive age worldwide suffer from micronutrient deficiencies. Climate change poses a growing threat to global food and nutrition security, but existing climate risk assessments often overlook the critical roles of both terrestrial and aquatic nutrient-rich foods that are vital for dietary diversity and micronutrient supply. In this study, we introduce an innovative framework that integrates data on future climate extremes, nutrient supply dependencies, and diet-related climate vulnerability. Our comprehensive analysis assesses nutrition-sensitive climate risk to five essential micronutrients across production systems. By mid-century (2041-2060), we estimate that 75% of calcium, 30% of folate, 39% of iron, 68% of vitamin A, and 79% of vitamin B12 produced in primary food products will face frequent climate extremes (at least every other year) globally. Nearly fifty countries are projected to face high domestic climate risk for two or more micronutrients during this period, with ten countries facing high risk across all five. We outline distinct climate risk profiles to offer data-driven entry points into strategies for bolstering the resilience of micronutrient supply chains and advancing progress toward global nutrient targets in the face of a changing climate.

Physiological Adaptations of Vegetables to Climate Stress

Vegetables, being rich in vitamins, carbohydrates, minerals, proteins and antioxidants are essential for overcoming micronutrient deficiencies, offering higher incomes and more employment opportunities per hectare to smallholder farmers compared to staple crops. Major challenges faced by vegetable growers are increased terminal heat stress, rainfall variability leading to flooding, drought, irrigation water availability, salinity, incidence of pests and diseases, extreme weather events. These gets further worsened in the future due to climate change. Vegetables exhibit various physiological adaptations to cope with changing environmental conditions such as enhanced photosynthetic efficiency, improved water-use efficiency, and altered phenological development. Higher temperatures accelerate the life cycle of vegetables cause increased respiration, leading to earlier maturation and potentially lower yields. Increased frequency of heat waves can cause heat stress, affecting growth and development. Moreover elevated temperatures increase the incidence of pests and diseases, leading to higher crop losses. Changes in precipitation patterns alter water availability, impacting growth and productivity. Nevertheless drought conditions cause stomatal closure limiting water loss besides reducing CO2 uptake. Excessive rainfall can lead to waterlogging, disrupting root function and nutrient uptake. Variability in climate conditions lead to inconsistent yields, making it challenging for farmers and necessitating adaptive strategies to ensure crop resilience and productivity. Genetic improvement through breeding for heat and drought tolerance helps to develop resilient vegetables. Additionally, agronomic practices like mulching, organic farming, and resource conservation technologies help mitigate the adverse effects of climate change. Understanding these physiological responses could streamline sustainable vegetable production in the face of a changing climate.

Micronutrient deficiencies according to sociodemographic factors and nutritional status among Panamanian children aged six to 59 months in 2019: a cross–sectional population–based study

Micronutrient deficiencies have serious lifelong consequences. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of anaemia, iron deficiency anaemia, iron deficiency, and vitamin A deficiency, according to sociodemographic factors and nutritional status among Panamanian children aged six to 59 months in2019. We used data from the National Health Survey of Panama (ENSPA), a population-based, cross-sectional study, with a nationally representative subsample to evaluate haemoglobin, C-reactive protein (CRP), ferritin, and retinol levels among children aged six to 59 months. The data are shown weighted. A total of 625 children representing a population of 62,100 children (females 45.0%, 27,971/62,100; 95% CI: 37.3-53.1), aged six to 59 months were assessed. Nationally, the prevalence of anaemia was 15.5% (9604/62,100; 95% CI: 11.5-20.6), iron deficiency anaemia was 8.0% (4950/62,100; 95% CI: 5.1-12.2), iron deficiency was 26.2% (16,259/62,100; 95% CI: 20.7-32.5), and vitamin A deficiency was 3.4% (2087/62,100; 95% CI: 2.1-5.3). Children from indigenous areas exhibited a higher prevalence of all micronutrient deficiencies studied, and nationally 40.9% (2316/5656; 95% CI: 22.1-62.9) of the children with overweight/obesity exhibited at least one micronutrient deficiency. Our results highlight important disparities in the prevalence of nutritional deficiencies among children in different living areas. Public health strategies should focus on these vulnerable populations, as the first years of life are crucial for adequate growth and development. This work was supported by an institutional research grant via the Ministry of Economy and Finance of Panama (019910.002). The ENSPA study was funded by the Inter-American Development Bank.

Micronutrient deficiencies in copper, zinc, and vitamin D as predictors of clinical outcomes in critically ill surgical patients in Korea: a retrospective cohort study

Micronutrient deficiencies in copper, zinc, and vitamin D as predictors of clinical outcomes in critically ill surgical patients in Korea: a retrospective cohort study

Augmenting phyto-chemical and phyto-mineral profiling of moringa leaf extract: A contrastive study of solid-liquid extraction methodologies

The global food system is plagued by legitimacy and stability issues due to climate and ecosystem disruptions, contributing to widespread malnutrition. A significant portion of the global population experiences undernourishment, overweight, and micronutrient deficiencies from unhealthy diets. Addressing these challenges necessitates regular consumption of essential nutrients from plant sources. Among various crops, Moringa oleifera leaves are highly nutritious, offering essential vitamins, minerals, and medicinal properties. Whence research was conducted to inquire the proximate phytochemical composition and extraction efficiency of moringa leaf extracts across four extraction methods: maceration (E1), Soxhlet (E2), ultrasound-assisted extraction (UAE) (E3), and microwave-assisted extraction (MAE) (E4) using 70% hydro-ethanolic solvent. The study detected the presence of phytocompounds and phytonutrients at higher levels in UAE and MAE extracts. Recovery yield was highest for UAE (21.81±0.32%) than conventional extraction methods (6.24±0.08%). Both advanced extraction methods resulted in higher TPC (148.86±1.92 mg GAE/g and 137.65±4.49 mg GAE/g, respectively) and TFC (23.18±0.44 mgQE/g and 22.12±0.61 mg QE/g, respectively). Protein and ascorbic acid contents followed a similar trend, with UAE achieving 148.66±3.74 mg/ml and 620.25±1.42 mg/100g, respectively. Antioxidant activity measured by DPPH assay was highest in UAE (86.25±1.58%) along with the lowest IC50 values (11.62±1.58 μg/ml) in UAE. Furthermore, ICP-OES analysis revealed higher concentrations of essential phyto-minerals in moringa leaf extracts. Moreover, SEM analysis revealed significant morphological disruptions in the leaf samples, correlating with higher phytomolecules recovery. The outcome of the research is that novel extraction methods significantly enhanced the extraction efficiency and quality of bioactive compounds from moringa leaves, suggesting their potential in the development of nutraceutical and biofortified food products to expunge malnutrition.

Unraveling the Mysteries of Autoimmune Gastritis.

Autoimmune gastritis is an immune-mediated disease characterized by the destruction of parietal cells and atrophy of the oxyntic mucosa due to anti-parietal cell antibodies. It may lead to serious conditions including iron/vitamin B12 and micronutrient deficiencies, neurological disorders, and gastric malignancies. The exact mechanism of this disease is not exactly understood; however, dysregulated immunological mechanisms appear to be major contributors. Patients with this disease are often asymptomatic but may present with gastrointestinal symptoms and/or iron/vitamin B12 deficiencies. Although important serological markers are available and despite advanced endoscopic techniques, the definitive diagnosis relies on histopathological examination of gastric corporal biopsy specimens. Autoimmune gastritis is closely related with increased risk of gastric neuroendocrine tumors and gastric adenocarcinoma. Patients with autoimmune gastritis do not benefit from specific treatments, thus, management is directed to restore micronutrient deficiencies and to prevent occurrence of neoplastic transformation with appropriate endoscopic surveillance.

Reproductive effects of wartime stress and possibilities of their correction (Literature review)

The article presents modern literary data and data of own clinical observations regarding the effects of long-term chronic stress on reproductive processes with an emphasis on the effects of wartime. All stages of the reproductive cycle, from the regulation of the menstrual cycle, conception and implantation to the birth of a child, are energy-consuming and unprofitable for the body. All these processes require a lot of energy, but their purpose is to reproduce the species, not to maintain homeostasis. Therefore, the body temporarily slows down these processes, withdraws energy aimed at their support, and uses it to resist stress.The biological meaning of inhibition of reproductive function in stressful conditions is that if a woman becomes pregnant under unfavorable conditions, it is bad for her body, and for the offspring, and for the future prospects of the biological species as a whole. Therefore, from an evolutionary point of view, it is very beneficial to reduce the production of hormones, exclude ovulation and prevent implantation, and reduce libido during periods of high stress.Stress causes activation of the neuroendocrine and sympatho-adrenal systems, which leads to the release of such hormones as cortisol, adrenaline, norepinephrine into the blood. This helps to mobilize the body’s resources to overcome a threatening situation. However, prolonged stress depletes these systems and leads to maladjustment and increased risk of disease. Stress hormones affect all body systems, including the reproductive system. According to the literature, stress disorders occur three times more often in women than in men.In conditions of chronic stress, in particular during war, pregnancy complications can be caused by stress of various origins: metabolic, associated with micronutrient deficiency, psychological, physical, a combination of factors.Prenatal stress during wartime is a part of our existence, which reduces the quality of life of a pregnant woman and affects the intrauterine development of the fetus and the subsequent health of the child. Long-term chronic stress also leads to deterioration of the general state of health of the expectant mother: it reduces work capacity and appetite, causes lethargy, apathy, sleep disturbances, and increases the risk of obstetric complications.Stress negatively affects the state of immunity of the female population both before conception and during pregnancy, which can lead to the activation of latent infections, and makes the body of pregnant women more vulnerable to acute seasonal infections. This is also facilitated by the lack of necessary vitamins and trace elements with antioxidant properties in conditions of occupation, disruptions in the supply of medicines to certain problematic regions of the country, frequent changes of residence, etc.During pregnancy, all the negative effects of wartime can be realized in the form of major obstetric syndromes. In conditions of pronounced energy deficit caused by long-term stress, the body has to provide for itself to the detriment of the future child, which leads to ZRP, and in the most tragic cases – to intrauterine death. Violation of the psycho-emotional state of pregnant women today leads to the birth of “children of war” – insecure, low self-esteem, deeply ill babies with mental disorders.For the onset of pregnancy and its successful bearing, vitamins and micro/macroelements with antioxidant properties are needed in order to resist oxidant stress inherent in stressful conditions (vitamins of group B, vitamin D, iron, magnesium, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, L-arginine, L- carnitine). Rational management of pregnancy in today’s complex conditions should be complex and multi-vector. One of the promising directions in ensuring an uncomplicated course of pregnancy and successful perinatal outcomes is work with perinatal psychologists. At the same time, the use of additional psychosomatic effects of basic therapy should not be underestimated.

Effect of Micronutrients on HIV-Related Clinical Outcomes Among Adults Living With HIV on Antiretroviral Therapy: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis.

Micronutrient deficiencies are common and frequently co-occurring among people living with HIV (PLHIV) globally, with consequences for their health and clinical outcomes. Previous reviews of the influence of micronutrient supplementation on HIV outcomes were conducted in the pre-highly active antiretroviral therapy (pre-HAART) era or included both HAART-naive and HAART-experienced individuals; thus, the evidence in the context of HAART is inconclusive. A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to evaluate the effect of micronutrient supplementation on important clinical outcomes among PLHIV on HAART. Original research articles published up to August 2022 in the following medical literature databases were identified and examined: PubMed/Medline, Embase, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and pre-post intervention studies that evaluated the relationship of micronutrient supplementation and HIV-related outcomes were included. A total of 32 studies investigating the effect of micronutrient supplementation on HIV outcomes in PLHIV on HAART were included. The main outcomes of interest were disease progression, CD4 lymphocyte count, viral load, weight, body mass index (BMI), hemoglobin, and anemia. The Cochrane Risk of Bias (RoB) 2 and ROBINS-I tools were used to assess the risk of bias in included studies, and GRADE was used to assess the certainty of the evidence. Vitamin D supplementation increased serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D concentration by 23.2 nmol/L (95% CI: 11.8 to 34.6; 6 RCTs, 567 participants; low-certainty evidence), but had little to no effect on CD4 lymphocyte counts (mean difference [MD]: 60 cells/µL; 95% CI: -35 to 155; 4 RCTs, 127 participants; low-certainty evidence). The effect of vitamin D on CD4 lymphocyte counts was greater among those with baseline CD4 count <350 cells/µL compared with counterparts with higher CD4 lymphocyte counts. Evidence from single RCTs suggests a beneficial effect of vitamin D on the incidence of sputum-smear-positive tuberculosis (hazard ratio = 0.54; 95% CI: 0.31, 0.92; 4000 participants; low-certainty evidence), and vitamin E (MD = 0.2 g/dL; 95% CI: 0.1, 0.3; 18 participants; moderate-certainty evidence) and selenium (MD = 0.30 g/dL; 95% CI: 0.29, 0.31; 97 participants; high-certainty evidence) on hemoglobin, and selenium on BMI (MD: -0.5; 95% CI: -0.51, -0.49; high-certainty evidence). Zinc supplementation had little to no effect on CD4 lymphocyte count overall, but for every 10-µg/dL higher serum zinc concentration, the predicted change in CD4 lymphocyte count from meta-regression was lower by 28 cells/µL (95% CI: -54, -3; 5 RCTs). Moderate- or high-certainty evidence indicates that there is probably no effect of zinc supplementation on log10 viral load, vitamin D on BMI and lumbar spine bone mineral density, and multiple micronutrient (MMN) supplementation on hemoglobin. The evidence is very uncertain about the effect of zinc supplementation on hemoglobin concentration and BMI, vitamin D supplementation on lumbar spine bone mineral density, vitamin E on CD4 lymphocyte count, and MMN supplementation on CD4 lymphocyte count. Zinc and vitamin D supplementation may promote immune recovery in a substantial proportion of PLHIV on HAART, and selenium and vitamin E supplementation may prevent anemia.

Chemical composition and consumer acceptability of oyster mushroom and sorghum-pearl millet based composite flours

Due to over-reliance on starchy staple foods in Kenya Micronutrient deficiency (MD) and Protein Energy Malnutrition (PEM) are the major nutritional concerns. Despite these foods being characterized by low nutrient densities, they are still used as main food ingredient especially in making porridges. Therefore, this study intended to develop composite flour of sorghum-pearl millet blends fortified with oyster mushroom and further evaluate its chemical composition and consumer acceptability. The sorghum and pearl millet were soaked in tap water then solar dried followed by milling into flour. Oyster mushrooms were also solar dried and milled. Subsequently, oyster mushroom was substituted to sorghum-pearl millet blends at 10–50 % to achieve the composite flours. Proximate composition of the samples was determined using standard methods, Inductively Coupled Plasma Optical Emission Spectroscopy and Ultra Performance Liquid Chromatography Ultraviolet Spectroscopy/Mass Spectrometry were used for mineral and vitamin analyses, respectively. In addition, consumer acceptability test was done on thin porridges was also carried out using untrained panelists. Protein content of the composite flours increased from 11.15–19.74 %, and there were significant increases in fiber (2.68–10.66 %) and ash (1.38 % to 5–79 %). Mineral content increased with Ca, P, Na, K, Mg, Zn and Fe as high as 286.25 mg/100 g, 2088.05 mg/100 g, 167.55 mg/100 g, 1833.05 mg/100 g, 136.75 mg/100 g, 4.22 mg/100 g and 9.46 mg/100 g respectively. An improvement of B1, B2, B3, B6 and B9 vitamin contents was also observed. Sensory analysis showed relatively moderate overall acceptance of thin porridges from the composite flours, although the acceptability decreased with the increase in oyster mushroom. Specifically, composite flour with 50% oyster mushroom was rich in most nutrients but it had the lowest scores for the sensory attributes. In conclusion, addition of oyster mushroom increased the overall nutritional composition of local cereal based staple foods an indication of potential solution to PEM and MD.

Malnutrition and associated risk factors in orphanages in Punjab, Pakistan: an analytical study

BackgroundChildren living in orphanages face an increased susceptibility to malnutrition due to inadequate nutrition and psychological factors, in comparison to children who stay with their parents. A considerable proportion of...

Influence of post-vegetative foliar application of nitrogen and selenium on micrometeorological parameters, phenology, and yield of wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)

Excessive and continuous use of commercial-grade fertilizers in large quantities during the post-Green Revolution era has led to significant environmental impacts, besides escalating the cost of production in staple crops. Such over-reliance on chemical fertilizers in intensive agriculture and a limited focus on balanced nutrient management have led to an increase in micronutrient deficiency in the sub-tropical part of India. This micronutrient deficiency leads to stunted growth, poor flowering, and reduced grain and fruit formation, directly impacting overall crop productivity. Hence, the introduction of nano form of fertilizers and integration of them with bulk/commercial form will help in improving the nutrient use efficiency, reduce production costs vis-a-vis enhancement in the plant growth, and yield more effectively than the traditional fertilizers. Proper nutrient management promotes healthy development at each stage, from seedling establishment to maturation and ripening, ensuring optimal yields and quality. Hence, fertilization directly and profoundly impacts the phonological stages of the crops. In this respect, a field experiment was conducted at Ludhiana and Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, India, during the rabi season of 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in a Randomized Completely Block Design (RCBD) with four replications and 11 treatments. Besides an absolute control where no fertilizer was applied (T1), ten other treatments were commonly fertilized with the recommended dose of fertilizers (RDF), i.e., 125 kg N and 62.5 kg P2O5 ha-1). The treatment varied in applying bulk and nano N (6% urea) and Se (15 ppm) at reproductive phases. The normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI) score and chlorophyll index improved with foliar spray of both bulk and nano urea forms alone or in combination with Se (bulk or nano). The effect of foliar sprays of urea and selenium, either in bulk or nano form, alone or in combination, was insignificant. The reproductive stages, viz. heading, grain filling, and physiological maturity, are prolonged with late season spray of 6% bulk or nano urea alone or in addition to bulk or nano selenium. Maximum days to grain filling was in a foliar spray of nano urea 6% along with nano selenium 15 ppm, further leading to higher grain and biological yield.