Dietary Behaviors Research Articles

CREB coactivator CRTC1 in melanocortin‐4 receptor‐expressing cells regulate dietary fat intake

AbstractCyclic adenosine monophosphate‐response element‐binding protein‐1‐regulated transcription coactivator‐1 (CRTC1), a cytoplasmic coactivator that translocates to the nucleus in response to cAMP, is associated with obesity. We previously reported that CRTC1 deficiency in melanocortin‐4 receptor (MC4R)‐expressing neurons, which regulate appetite and energy metabolism in the brain, causes hyperphagia and obesity under a high‐fat diet (HFD). HFD is preferred for mice, and the dietary fat in HFD is the main factor contributing to its palatability. These findings, along with our previous results, suggest that CRTC1 regulates the appetite for dietary fat. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate the dietary fat intake behavior and energy metabolism of MC4R neuron‐specific CRTC1 knockout mice fed soybean oil or lard. CRTC1 deficiency increased the intake of soybean oil and significantly increased body weight gain. Furthermore, obesity induced by soybean oil intake was partially due to leptin resistance. No significant changes in soybean oil intake were observed between young CRTC1‐deficient and wild‐type mice; however, soybean oil intake increased with age. Moreover, lard intake did not significantly affect the body weight. Overall, our findings highlighted the crucial role of CRTC1 in the regulation of spontaneous dietary fat intake. Furthermore, the role of CRTC1 becomes increasingly significant with age.

Dietary Habits of Young Poles and Their Selected Determinants: A Review and Implications for Public Health.

This study investigates the dietary patterns, health behaviors, and related determinants among young people in Poland, amid increasing lifestyle-related health concerns like obesity and poor nutrition. Understanding the factors influencing these behaviors is crucial for crafting effective public health strategies. The objective was to analyze young Poles' eating habits, their perceptions of health, and the role of various determinants in shaping these behaviors. A survey was conducted among a representative sample of young Poles, gathering data on eating habits, health perceptions, and lifestyle choices. The survey focused on the respondents' understanding of healthy eating, sources of nutrition knowledge, and the influence of family, social media, and public health campaigns. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and correlations between health behaviors and socio-demographic factors were examined. The study revealed that 88% of young respondents prioritize health, with 73% acknowledging a link between nutrition and health. While most participants accurately described healthy eating and reported adherence to dietary guidelines, 43% engaged in emotional eating, which often led to compulsive behaviors associated with obesity. Social media, internet articles, and family were primary sources of nutrition knowledge. Despite their knowledge, fruit and vegetable consumption was below recommended levels, and physical activity levels were insufficient in nearly half of the respondents. Only 36% regularly read food labels, with many choosing products containing additives. Appearance-related stress was prevalent among 52% of respondents, while sleep deficits and lack of sufficient physical activity were common. The findings suggest that while young Poles possess a high level of awareness regarding healthy eating, gaps remain in the application of this knowledge, particularly concerning emotional eating and inadequate fruit and vegetable consumption. Public health campaigns should be more effectively targeted to address these gaps and promote sustainable health behaviors from early childhood. Addressing emotional eating, enhancing physical activity, and improving nutrition education through effective channels like social media are key to improving public health outcomes.

Interdisciplinary Brain-based Learning Strategies in Addressing Liver Fluke Disease and Cultural Dietary Practices among Early Childhood Students

Liver fluke disease remains a critical public health issue in Southeast Asia, driven by cultural dietary practices involving raw or undercooked freshwater fish. This study evaluates the impact of an interdisciplinary brain-based learning intervention aimed at increasing awareness and modifying dietary behaviors among early childhood students in Central Northeast Thailand. A quasi-experimental design was employed, involving 122 students from four provinces. The intervention incorporated brain-based learning activities such as storytelling, songs, and visual aids to enhance engagement. Pre- and post-tests, behavioral observations, and attitudinal surveys were conducted to assess the program’s effectiveness. Post-intervention results indicated significant improvements in knowledge about liver fluke transmission, symptoms, and prevention, alongside positive changes in behavior, such as increased avoidance of raw fish consumption and improved hygiene practices. Attitudinal surveys showed a shift in preferences toward safer eating habits. These findings suggest integrating brain-based learning with culturally relevant health education can foster sustainable behavior change in early childhood populations. Further research is recommended to explore this approach’s long-term impacts and scalability.

Emerging Perspectives: The Interplay of Taste Perception and Oral Microbiota Composition in Dietary Preferences and Obesity.

Recent advancements in sensory research have brought to light the intricate relationship between taste perception and the oral microbiota, prompting investigations into their influence on human health, particularly in the context of dietary preferences and obesity. This review aims to update the current understanding of how oral microbiota influence taste perception and dietary choices, elucidating shared metabolic pathways between food processing and oral bacteria. Further, this review outlines the mechanisms underlying taste perception, emphasizing the role of taste receptors and taste buds in shaping sensory experiences influenced by genetic and environmental factors. Notably, we explore the bidirectional relationship between oral microbiota and taste sensitivity, highlighting the potential impact of microbial composition on taste perception thresholds and implications for dietary habits and health outcomes, such as obesity and dental caries. However, significant research gaps remain, particularly in the understanding of the molecular mechanisms linking oral microbiota with taste sensitivity, as well as the long-term effects of microbiota-targeted interventions. Future research should focus on longitudinal studies and experimental interventions to explore these connections more deeply, offering insights into potential strategies for promoting healthier dietary behaviors and managing diet-related non-communicable diseases.

Trends in Nutritional Status and Dietary Behavior in School-Aged Children with Congenital Heart Defects.

Background: Malnutrition and poor weight gain has been reported in infants with congenital heart defects (CHDs); however data in older children with CHDs are limited. In order to obtain representative data on the nutritional status, dietary behavior, and potential influencing factors in school-aged children with CHDs, we performed a nationwide online survey. Methods: Patients aged 6 to 17 years registered in the German National Register for CHDs were asked to participate in this study by completing the German Health Interview and Examination Survey for Children and Adolescents (KiGGS) eating study questionnaire in order to assess their self-reported dietary habits. The use of the same questionnaire enabled a comparison with a representative subset of 4569 participants of the KiGGS study. Results: A total of 894 patients (mean age 12.5 ± 3.0 years; 47.2% female) were enrolled. Patients were allocated according to anatomic complexity into simple (23.8%), moderate (37.8%), and complex CHDs (38.4%). The consumption of sugar-containing food (p < 0.001) and fast food (p < 0.05) was significantly lower among the CHD patients than in the healthy children. Children with CHDs showed significantly lower body mass index (BMI) percentiles (p < 0.001) compared with their healthy peers, while children with complex and moderate CHDs had the lowest BMI. While in CHD patients, the BMI percentiles were not related to unhealthy food, there was a strong correlation with the CHD severity and number of previous interventions (p < 0.01). Conclusions: According to this nationwide survey, school-aged children with complex CHD are at risk of undernutrition, which is not due to dietary habits but to CHD severity and repeated surgery.

The association between dietary knowledge based on the Chinese Dietary Guidelines and adherence to healthy dietary habits: a large-scale cross-sectional study.

Previous systematic review has shown that individuals with more comprehensive dietary knowledge tend to engage in healthier eating patterns among American or European population. However, research on the association between dietary knowledge based on the Chinese Dietary Guidelines and healthy dietary behaviors, particularly among adolescents and college students in China, is lacking. This study aimed to examine the association between dietary knowledge based on the Chinese Dietary Guidelines and adherence to healthy dietary behaviors among adolescents and college students in China. A cross-sectional study was conducted in China in August and October 2023. The study involved 527 adolescents and 11,856 college students. A convenience and cluster sampling methodology was employed to select one or two grades from 33 different university majors. The dietary behaviors of college students were evaluated by assessing their consumption of nine food groups: water, eggs, milk and milk products, vegetables, fruit, red meat, soy and soy products, seafood, and sugar-sweetened beverages. The dietary behaviors of adolescents were evaluated by assessing their consumption of five food groups: fast food, salty snack foods, fruits, vegetables, and soft drinks and sugared fruit beverages. The participants' dietary knowledge was assessed using the Chinese Dietary Guidelines. The relationship between dietary knowledge and behaviors was examined using a multivariate logistic regression analysis. The questionnaire response rate was 100.0%. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed a significant positive association between dietary knowledge and the likelihood of exhibiting diverse dietary behaviors among college students. After adjusting for gender, age, family income, place of residence, and parents' education levels, the results demonstrated a positive association between dietary knowledge and adherence to 4-8 eating habits among college students. In contrast, similar association was not observed among adolescent. This study revealed a significant association between dietary knowledge based on the Guidelines and adherence to healthy dietary behaviors among college students in China. That is to say, the higher the level of dietary knowledge based on the Guidelines among college students, the healthier the dietary behaviors they tend to adopt in their daily lives. These findings indicate the necessity of developing educational interventions based on the Guidelines to enhance dietary knowledge among individuals with limited dietary knowledge. Such interventions could facilitate the acquisition of essential health-related knowledge and strengthen motivation to engage in healthy dietary behaviors. Future studies should employ longitudinal prospective designs or randomized controlled trials in order to establish a causal association between dietary knowledge based on the Guidelines and healthy dietary behaviors.

Additive vs. redundant properties of theory in the advancement of weight-control behaviors within community-based obesity treatments in lower- to lower-middle income women

BackgroundObesity is a growing epidemic with non-surgical/non-pharmacological interventions having only nominal and transient effects on excess weight. Those persistent shortcomings are associated with minimal understandings of impacts of treatment-associated changes in psychological variables and their relationships. Women of lower incomes have high rates of obesity and might have increased difficulties accessing evidence-based programs.MethodsWomen with obesity of lower- to lower-middle incomes participated in 6-month community-based treatments in the United States emphasizing either self-regulatory skills development (behavioral methods group: n = 63) or typical education in exercise and healthy dietary practices (education group: n = 48).ResultsThere were significant 6-month improvements in self-regulation, self-efficacy, mood, physical activity/exercise, dietary behaviors, and weight in both groups. All improvements were significantly greater in the behavioral group. Based on the incorporation of multiple behavioral theories, separate multiple regression models were fit for prediction of the weight-loss behavior changes. Stepwise entry of changes in self-regulation, self-efficacy, and mood each significantly contributed to the explained variance in physical activity/exercise change. Change in self-efficacy was most relevant in the prediction of change in dietary behaviors. Change in physical activity/exercise was significantly related to change in dietary behaviors; however, a regression analysis indicated that only physical activity/exercise change was a significant independent contributor to the overall accounted-for variance in lost weight.ConclusionBy incorporating key tenets of social cognitive theory, self-efficacy theory, self-regulation theory, coaction theory, and the mood-behavior model in an additive manner, suggestions and emphases for addressing psychological variables for improved weight-loss behaviors within scalable obesity treatments were advanced.

An Instrumental Analysis of the Triad Association Between Sugar-Sweetened Beverages, Screen Time, and Dental Caries in Adolescents

Background: Previous studies reported screen time in association with unhealthy dietary behaviors, such as excessive intake of sugar-sweetened beverages leading to dental caries. Thus, we aimed to explore the association between screen time on mobile devices and dental caries experience in adolescents, as well as whether sugar-sweetened beverages would mediate the association. Methods: We analyzed 24,374 junior and senior high school students of age 12 to 17 years from the 2021 “Surveillance for common diseases and health risk factors among students” Project in Jiangsu Province of China. Dental caries experience was determined by the designated dentists. Screen time and consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages were self-reported and treated as a priori risk. We employed an instrumental variable (IV) approach for the current cross-sectional setting. We used the lasso technique to shortlist covariates from a range of confounding factors. Binary logistic regression or ordered logistic regression was performed where appropriate to explore the associations of screen time on mobile devices with dental caries and sugar-sweetened beverages. Results: The prevalence rate of dental caries was 38.4% in the study population. In comparison with &lt;2 h/d screen time on mobile devices, extended screen time (≥2 h/d) was associated with higher dental caries risk (coefficient: 1.27, 95%; confidence interval: 0.80–1.75). Mediation analysis suggested that sugar-sweetened beverage intake might be an independent risk factor for dental caries, instead of the mediator between screen time on mobile devices and dental caries. None of the interaction terms under investigation was statistically significant. Conclusions: Exposure to mobile device screens and sugar-sweetened beverages was associated with dental caries in adolescents. These findings highlighted the importance of increasing awareness of potential risks owing to mobile device usage and sugar-sweetened beverages and the necessity to develop appropriate intervention strategies for school-aged adolescents.

Dietary Health Communication and Conversation Analysis: A Scoping Review

ABSTRACT Globally, many people don’t eat a healthy diet despite policies and public health frameworks deployed to improve dietary status. Healthy diets can prevent, manage, and even reverse chronic disease, highlighting the importance of health professionals addressing healthy diets in clinical consultations. Conversation analysis (CA) is a method that can be used to understand dietary talk in these clinical consultations; however, it is unclear to what extent CA has been used for this purpose. Using PRISMA guidelines, a scoping review was conducted with the aim of identifying and summarizing research where CA was used to examine the dietary health conversations between health professionals and adults. A systematic search resulted in 4161 articles retrieved, with 13 studies meeting inclusion criteria. Included studies used CA to examine a variety of phases of dietary health encounters, including dietary assessment, advice-giving and resistance to this dietary advice, and dietary (lifestyle) behavior change negotiations, with n = 6 using audio or video recording, respectively. Studies were conducted in seven countries and across primary, secondary, and tertiary settings. We highlighted that dietary talk, irrespective of purpose (e.g., evaluation, assessment, or persuasion [e.g., behavior change]), is under-researched within the CA field. This is a need for further research using CA on dietary talk across a range of settings, conditions, populations, and talk purposes to understand how health professionals impact patient dietary behaviors. Such understanding has the potential to contribute to the improvement of dietary health communication approaches and patient outcomes.

Does Online Social Support Affect the Eating Behaviors of Polish Women with Insulin Resistance?

Insulin resistance, a key factor in developing type 2 diabetes mellitus, is linked to various health conditions. The basis of its treatment is lifestyle modification. However, adherence to nutritional and other medical recommendations can be challenging for chronic disease patients due to many factors, including demographics, social context, gender, age, and the patient's baseline health condition. This study aims to evaluate the impact of online support group members on the diet quality of women with insulin resistance. This study was conducted as an online survey consisting of KomPAN (validated food frequency questionnaire) augmented with questions regarding using professional counseling and membership in support groups. The study covered 1565 women with insulin resistance, 1011 of whom were associated with the online support group. The mean pHDI (pro-health diet index) was 5.18 ± 2.69 in the support groups and 4.86 ± 2.69 in the control group (p = 0.0319. There were no significant differences in the nHDI (non-health diet index). We found that the pHDI is associated with financial situations, the household's situation, occupation education level, and medical or dietitian care, whereas occupation, medical, and dietitian care affect the nHDI. Membership in support groups is related to a higher pHDI and state of self-assessment of nutritional knowledge. Our study indicates a relationship between participation in online support groups and dietary behaviors and the subjective assessment of nutrition knowledge. Future research should focus on elucidating the mechanisms behind these influences and exploring how these communities can be optimized for broader public health initiatives.

The trend of correlation changes of macronutrient intakes among different familial pairs: a prospective study among participants of Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study

Background/AimFamilial resemblance in dietary patterns has been a subject of interest, with both genetic and environmental factors playing crucial roles. This study aims to investigate trends in macronutrient intake correlations over a 9-year period among different familial pairs, including parent-offspring, siblings, and spouses, using data from the Tehran Lipid and Glucose Study (TLGS).MethodsThis longitudinal study, conducted within the framework of the TLGS, analyzed data from 1,814 families over a 9-year period. Dietary intakes were assessed using a validated 168-item food frequency questionnaire. Macronutrient intakes were calculated and adjusted for age. Familial correlations were estimated using intraclass correlation coefficients for various familial pairs (parent-offspring, siblings, and spouses) across four consecutive surveys. Changes in correlations were analyzed over 3-year, 6-year, and 9-year intervals, as well as across all four surveys, to determine overall trends in macronutrient intake correlations.ResultsThe results revealed diverse trends in intake correlations for carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and specific fatty acids across familial relationships. Parent-offspring dyads exhibited varied patterns, with some nutrients showing regression to the mean. Sister-sister pairs demonstrated strengthening correlations for energy, carbohydrates, fats, and saturated fatty acids over time. Conversely, brother-sister pairs displayed weakening correlations for most macronutrients, particularly energy, proteins, cholesterol, and fiber. Spouse correlations tended towards regression to the mean for energy, carbohydrates, and fats, and fiber.ConclusionsThe present study illuminates the dynamic nature of familial dietary correlations over time. The contrasting trends between sister-sister and brother-sister dyads suggest a significant influence of gender on shared dietary patterns. These findings underscore the complex interplay of genetic and environmental factors in shaping family dietary behaviors and highlight the importance of considering both gender and relationship type when examining familial nutritional habits.

고등학생의 영양지식이 식태도와 식행동에 미치는 영향: 식태도의 매개효과

Objectives The objective of this study is to empirically analyze the relationship between nutritional knowledge, eating attitude, and eating behavior in high school students, and to use it as an educational material for improving eating behaviors for high school students. Methods A survey was conducted on 314 high school students(127 men, 187 women) in the metropolitan area, and statistical analyses by multi-regression analysis and bootstrapping were performed using SPSS 28.0 and SPSS Macro 3.4 program. Results The main results were derived as follows. First, it was found that high school students' nutritional knowledge had a positive effect on dietary attitude. Second, it was found that the dietary attitudes of high school students had a positive effect on dietary habits and nutritional intake among dietary behaviors. Third, it was found that the nutritional knowledge of high school students had a positive effect on dietary habits and nutritional intake among dietary behaviors. Fourth, it was found that there was a mediating effect of dietary attitude in the relationship between students' nutritional knowledge and dietary behavior. Conclusions It was confirmed that for positive eating habits and nutritional intake of high school students, their nutritional knowledge must precede, and dietary attitude is also an important factor.

Comparative effects of behaviour change techniques using eHealth and mHealth in promoting dietary behaviour: protocol for a systematic review and component network meta-analysis

IntroductionGlobally, it is estimated that dietary habits contribute to 22% of adult deaths and 15% of disability-adjusted life years, highlighting the critical role of dietary behaviour in public health. Despite...

Effect of healthy dietary intention-behavior (in)consistency on depression and anxiety in the process of behavior change.

Although an increasing number of people are now committed to pursuing a healthy diet, it remains unclear how mental health changes during this process. The present study aimed to examine the combined effect of healthy dietary intention and behavior on depression and anxiety across two sub-studies. This study consisted of two parts: a cross-sectional survey (Study 1) involving 1,433 college students and an 11-day daily diary study (Study 2) with 117 college students. Polynomial regression and response surface analysis indicated that in cases of congruence, individuals' intention and behavior align at a high level and were associated with lower levels of depression and anxiety in the motivational phase but were not found similar association in the volitional phase. In cases of incongruence, individuals with high intention-low behavior tend to experience lower levels of depression and anxiety in the motivational phase. However, individuals with high intention-low behavior tend to experience higherlevels of depression and anxiety in the volitional phase. These findings not only enrich the current understanding of diet and health but also contribute to the development of holistic strategies for promoting a healthy diet.

Weight-control compensatory behaviors patterns and correlates: a scoping review.

Weight-control compensatory behaviors appear to be a commonly utilized strategy for health management. Individuals engaging in such behaviors believe that the negative consequences from unhealthy behaviors will be neutralized by the positive consequences of healthy behaviors. Existing research has not reached a consensus on whether such behaviors are beneficial to health. This review aims to (1) summarize the patterns of weight-control compensatory health behaviors in different populations, (2) highlight correlates, predictors, and consequences of compensatory health behaviors, and (3) identify gaps for future research. This review identified existing literature using online databases, CINAHL and PubMed. Primary research articles published after 2000 with non-clinical participants of 12 years or older who engaged in compensatory behaviors for weight control purposes were selected. Descriptive statistics were extracted from 35 studies. Different patterns for weight-control compensatory behaviors emerged between the female and male sexes. Meanwhile, no clear association of such behaviors was found across weight status. Studies reviewed also highlighted three main areas of compensatory behaviors for weight management, namely dietary behaviors, physical activity, and alcohol consumption. Weight-control compensatory behaviors had significant negative correlations with mental health indicators, such as psychosocial functioning, emotional differentiation ability, and body esteem. Weight-control compensatory behaviors may be a widely used weight management strategy and can be presented in diverse ways. Although believed to be promoting health, such behaviors appear to be associated with poor psychological well-being. This emerging topic warrants more in-depth investigation to establish the direction of causation. Future research may investigate the relationship between weight-control compensatory behaviors and various aspects of health over longer time periods, examine the engagement of multiple weight-control compensatory behaviors, and focus on high-risk populations.

A randomised controlled trial to determine the effect of genotype-based personalised diet and physical activity advice for FTO genotype (rs9939609) delivered via email on healthy eating motivation in young adults.

The prevalence of obesity continues to rise, and public health dietary recommendations are not being adhered to. The transition to higher education is a period of risk for weight gain in young adults and has been demonstrated as a good time to initiate behaviour change. A genotype-based personalised approach to dietary recommendations may motivate young adults to maintain or adopt positive dietary behaviours. The aim of the present study was to determine the efficacy of genotype-based personalised dietary and physical activity advice on healthy eating motivation in young adults. Participants were young adults (n = 153), aged 18-25 years. Baseline measures (participant characteristics, height, weight, body mass index [BMI], body fat percentage [BF%], healthy eating motivation and physical activity) were collected. Participants were genotyped for a SNP in the FTO gene (rs99396090) and randomly allocated (stratified for genotype) to three different groups (1. Genotype-based personalised advice: dietary and physical activity advice based on genotype, BMI and reported physical activity; 2. Non-genotype-based personalised advice: dietary and physical activity advice based on BMI and reported physical activity; 3. Control: no advice). A week after receipt of advice delivered via email, participants completed the healthy eating motivation questionnaire for a second time. Genotype-based personalised dietary advice did not affect healthy eating motivation: when participants were analysed across the whole group (p = 0.417), when analysed according to those informed of a risk or non-risk-associated genotype (p = 0.287), or when analysed according to those with a BMI (>25 kg/m2; p = 0.336) or BF% (male >18%, female >31%; p = 0.387) outside the healthy range. There was also no significant difference in healthy eating motivation at 1-week in the control or non-genotype-based advice groups. Genotype-based personalised advice for the prevention of obesity did not affect healthy eating motivation in this group of healthy, young adults.

Risk Perception and Prevalence of Risky Behaviours Among In-School Adolescents in Ijesa-Land, South Western Nigeria

Background Risky behaviours contribute to adolescents’ morbidity and mortality and constitute a leading public health concern. Therefore, this study sets out to determine the prevalence of risky behaviours and the perceived susceptibility to these behaviours. Methods A total of 465 in-school adolescents were sampled for a descriptive cross-sectional study using a multistage sampling technique. Data were collected via a facilitated self-administered semi-structured questionnaire adapted from the Youth Risk Behaviour Survey and analysed using IBM SPSS v23.0 Results Of the 465 recruited for this study, 63% were females and 37% were males and the larger percentage was in the age group 14-16 years. Over a fifth of the respondents perceived they were at moderate to great risk regarding partaking in risky sexual behaviour (23.7%), violence and unsafe practices (23%), suicidal ideation, plans or attempts (21.5). The most prevalent risky behaviour was however risky dietary behaviours (69.2%), followed by unsafe practices and violence (25.2%) and risky sexual behaviour (18.9%).. Respondents who did not have friends and family members involved in at least one risky behaviour are about one and a half times less likely to be at moderate/great risk of getting involved in risky behaviours. Conclusions Risky behaviours are prevalent among in-school adolescents with those having friends and family members involved in at least one risky behaviour at greater risk of involvement. The pattern of risky behaviour shows that there is a need to pay attention to hitherto unfancied risky behaviours. A double-edged educational intervention for adolescents and parents/family members is needed to curb risky behaviours among adolescents.

Association between snack intake behaviors of children and neighboring women: A population-based cross-sectional analysis with spatial regionalization

BackgroundAccumulated evidence indicates that neighborhood environments affect children's health behaviors. However, measuring neighborhood environments remains challenging because there exist strengths and weaknesses both in objective and perceived environment measures. Drawing on a recent conceptual model of how environment, perception, and behavior interact, we hypothesized that neighbors' behavioral similarities indicate the combined influence of physical and social environmental opportunities on specific behaviors. We then examined how these similarities (i.e. the behavioral tendencies of children's adult neighbors) relate to children's obesogenic dietary behaviors. MethodsWe used data for 2275 women and 821 elementary schoolchildren from a 2012–2013 population-based survey in greater Tokyo, Japan. Snack intake was defined as the total consumption of various types of snacks, estimated using a validated self-administered diet history questionnaire. Spatial regionalization, a type of spatial clustering, was used to empirically identify segments that could effectively differentiate regional variation in women's snack intake behaviors. We conducted multiple regression analysis to assess the cross-sectional association between children's snack intake and the mean snack intake of neighborhood women, adjusting for mother's intake. ResultsA 1-g increase in the mean snack intake of neighborhood women was associated with a 0.23-g (95% confidence interval: 0.00–0.45) increase in children's intake, while a 1-g increase in mother's intake was associated with a 0.34-g (95% confidence interval: 0.26–0.41) increase in children's intake. DiscussionThe results suggest that the out-of-home physical and social neighborhood environments may have non-ignorable associations with children's dietary behaviors by offering behavioral opportunities in addition to maternal influence.

Effect of stressors during COVID-19 lockdown on malnutrition and health-risk behaviors among Jordanian college students: A cross-sectional study.

A stressful condition such as the emergence of the coronavirus and its related lockdown measures might trigger alterations in college students' behaviors. This cross-sectional study aimed to identify the changes in college students' dietary and lifestyle behaviors during the lockdown and the effect of lockdown-related stressors on health-risk behaviors. A web-based survey was conducted among undergraduate college students in Jordan. Weight and height were reported by the students. The students' dietary and lifestyle behaviors and their changes during 1 month of the countrywide lockdown were assessed. The Perceived Stress Scale-4 was utilized to assess stress levels. Results indicated that 77.2% of the students reported weight changes. Notably, 45.9% increased their intake of unhealthy food, while and 38% opted for healthier food choices. Most students experienced alterations in physical activity (80.0%), screen time (86.2%), smoking, and sleep patterns (85.4%), with a higher tendency toward adopting health-risk behaviors. Perceptions of curfew-related stress were associated with distance learning-related stress (OR = 2.73, CI: 1.08-6.90, P = .034), and a greater change in physical activity (OR = 3.59, CI: 1.36-9.48, P = .010). Additionally, weight changes were associated with perception of other types of stressors (OR = 3.39, CI: 1.39-8.28, P = .007). Overall, there was a considerable increase in malnutrition and health-risk behaviors among students during the lockdown. Understanding students' responses to these stressful conditions and the role of stress in driving behavioral changes are crucial for developing interventions that enhance college students' adaptation to such changes and maintaining healthy dietary and lifestyle behaviors in the future.

Behavior Change Techniques to Reduce Sugars Intake by Adolescents: A Systematic Review.

The adolescent diet is high in sugars compared with other age groups. Effective approaches to support sugar reduction by adolescents are needed as part of caries prevention. To systematically review peer-reviewed evidence (1990 to 2023) to identify effective behavior change techniques (BCTs) for sugars reduction in adolescents aged 10 to 16 y. Nine databases (CINAHL, Cochrane, Dental and Oral Sciences Source, EMBASE, MEDLINE, PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science) were searched. Identified articles were screened independently in duplicate for eligibility. Interventions were eligible if they aimed to change adolescent dietary behavior(s) and reported pre- and postsugar-relevant outcome measures. Interventions from included studies were coded using a 93-item BCT Taxonomy (Michie Taxonomy v1). Risk of bias was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project Quality Assessment Tool for Quantitative Studies. Evidence synthesis by vote counting (number of studies showing positive versus null or negative effects) was applied to BCTs that were present in more than 5 interventions. Of 16,271 articles identified, 764 were screened in full, yielding 35 studies (in 43 papers), of which 3 were uncodeable. BCTs coded in interventions covered 11 of 16 BCT clusters and 25 of 93 individual BCTs in the BCT taxonomy. The median number of BCTs applied per study was 3 (interquartile range 2-6). Evidence synthesis indicated that the BCTs most positively associated with a positive reduction in sugars were (with the percentage of strong-/moderate-quality studies applying these techniques that successfully reduced sugars intake in brackets) feedback on behavior (100%), information on social and environmental consequences (100%), problem solving (75%), and social comparison (75%). Notwithstanding limitations in available data, the current evidence most strongly supports the use of BCTs relating to feedback on behavior, providing information on the social and environmental consequences, include problem solving and making social comparisons, to lower sugars intake in adolescents. The results of this study will enable clinicians to provide more effective dietary advice when supporting dietary behavior change to reduce sugars intake in adolescents. The results may also be used by researchers to guide future directions for research into effective sugars reduction in adolescents.