Dietary Factors Research Articles

Predictors of Dietary Supplement Use Among Children Attending Care and Educational Institutions in Krakow, Poland

Background/Objectives: Socioeconomic status and parental lifestyle influence dietary behaviors, including the administration of oral dietary supplements in children. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of selected health, dietary, and sociodemographic factors on the use of dietary supplements by children. Methods: In this cross-sectional observational study, a diagnostic survey based on the computer-assisted web interview method was conducted in November 2022 among 2826 parents whose children attend public educational institutions in Krakow, Poland. The study group included data on 497 nursery children (17.6%), 599 kindergarten children (21.2%), 1594 primary school children (56.4%), and 136 secondary school children (4.8%). Results: Among all respondents, 72.2% were taking oral nutritional supplements, with vitamin D supplementation being particularly popular in all groups. Logistic regression analysis identified predictors of supplement use, including special diet (p < 0.001), use of medication for chronic disease (p = 0.012), regularity of main meals (p = 0.022), and attending a sports school (p = 0.021). A decrease in supplement use was observed with the increasing level of education of children (p < 0.001). Conclusions: These results highlight the importance of various health, dietary, and sociodemographic factors in influencing decisions regarding dietary supplementation in children. Further assessment of dietary supplement usage should be conducted alongside evaluations of nutrient intake from the children’s diet.

Barriers in translating existing nutrigenetics insights to precision nutrition for cardiometabolic health in ethnically diverse populations.

Cardiometabolic diseases pose a significant threat to global public health, with a substantial majority of cardiovascular disease mortality (more than three-quarters) occurring in low- and middle-income countries. There have been remarkable advances in recent years in identifying genetic variants that alter disease susceptibility by interacting with dietary factors. Despite the remarkable progress, several factors need to be considered before the translation of nutrigenetics insights to personalised and precision nutrition in ethnically diverse populations. Some of these factors include variations in genetic predispositions, cultural and lifestyle factors as well as socioeconomic factors. This review aims to explore the factors that need to be considered in bridging the gap between existing nutrigenetics insights and the implementation of personalised and precision nutrition across diverse ethnicities. Several factors might influence variations among individuals with regards to dietary exposures and metabolic responses and these include genetic diversity, cultural and lifestyle factors as well as socioeconomic factors. A multi-omics approach involving disciplines such as metabolomics, epigenetics and the gut microbiome might contribute to improved understanding of the underlying mechanisms of gene-diet interactions and the implementation of precision nutrition although more research is needed to confirm the practicality and effectiveness of this approach. Conducting gene-diet interaction studies in diverse populations is essential and studies utilising large sample sizes are required as this improves the power to detect interactions with minimal effect sizes. Future studies should focus on replicating initial findings to enhance reliability and promote comparison across studies. Once findings have been replicated in independent samples, dietary intervention studies will be required to further strengthen the evidence and facilitate their application in clinical practice. Nutrigenetics has a potential role to play in the prevention and management of cardiometabolic diseases. Conducting gene-diet interaction studies in diverse populations is essential giving the genetic diversity and variations in dietary patterns. Integrating data from disciplines such as metabolomics, epigenetics and the gut microbiome could help in early identification of individuals at risk of cardiometabolic diseases as well as the implementation of precise dietary interventions for preventing and managing cardiometabolic diseases.

Total sugar intake significantly associated with systolic blood pressure in small sample population

Abstract Background Hypertension contributes to 45% of all deaths from heart disease and up to 51% of deaths from strokes. Dietary factors, such as sodium (Na+) and potassium (K+) can play a role, but recent studies have also highlighted the importance of sugar intake on blood pressure. Very few studies have evaluated the impact of these factors and their ratio on cardiometabolic biomarkers. This study aims to assess the impact of dietary sugar intake, Na+, K+ and NA+/K+ ratio on hypertension and cardiometabolic biomarkers. Methods Fasting venous blood was collected to measure glucose, triacylglycerols (TAG), total cholesterol, HDL-c, ApoA1, ApoB, or hs-CRP, with enzymatic and turbidimetric techniques, and oxidized LDL by ELISA, and IL-6 and TNFa by Luminex system, the latter’s in a subset sample. Blood pressure (SBP, DBP, and HR) was measured at least twice with an automatic recorder. Dietary intake was obtained using semi-quantitative FFQ, comprising 82 items, and reported to the previous year. Data was analysed using R software through descriptive analysis and partial correlations adjusted to the participant’s BMI. A significant level of 0.05 was used. Results 78 participants, aged from 19 to 80 years old (M = 48,5±13,5) were evaluated, with 47% taking hypertensive medication. BMI ranged from 19,7 to 41,1 Kg/m2 (M = 29,2±5,4). The average intake of Na+, K+ and NA+/K+ ratio were 3805±1397 mg, 3980±1300 mg and 1.65±0,38, respectively. Total mean sugar intake (% energy) represents 21,4%. No significant correlation was found between Na+ or K+ with SBP, HR, and the cardiometabolic biomarkers (p > 0.05). A positive correlation was found between % sugar intake and SBP (rs = 0,29, p < 0,05), which remains significant after adjusting for BMI, and a positive correlation, in the borderline of significance, with TAG (rs = 0,23, p = 0,0561). Conclusions N+, K+, and their ratio do not associate with SBP, HR and cardiometabolic biomarkers. However, % of sugar intake is positively associated with SBP. Key messages • Sodium and potassium may not always be associated with changes in blood pressure. • Sugar intake might have an important role in the etiopathology of hypertension.

Comparison of diet quality indices for predicting metabolic syndrome in Iran: cross-sectional findings from the persian cohort study

BackgroundThe metabolic syndrome (MetS) comprises metabolic irregularities, including hypertension and central obesity, which are influenced by genetic, metabolic, environmental, and dietary factors. As diet and lifestyle are risk factors for MetS, it is important to know which diet quality index better predicts MetS. The aim of this study is to compare the ability of different diet quality indices in predicting MetS and to identify the most effective one.MethodsThis cross-sectional study involved 5,206 participants aged 35 to 70 engaged in the Prospective Epidemiological Research Study in Iran (PERSIAN) cohort. Assessment of one year’s food intake via a validated 134-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) facilitated the calculation of adherence to five diet quality indices: Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH), Mediterranean, Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND), Dietary Inflammatory Index (DII), and Diet Quality Indices (DQI). While bivariate Pearson correlation and binary logistic regression aided in identifying the strongest correlation and predictor for MetS among the indices.ResultsThis study showed a significant association between adhering to the DASH diet score, Mediterranean diet score, MIND diet score, DII score, and DQI score, and the odds of developing MetS (OR: 0.94, (95% CI: 0.93–0.95), OR: 0.85, (95% CI: 0.81–0.89), OR: 0.84, (95% CI: 0.80–0.89), OR: 1.22, (95%CI: 1.11–1.34), OR: 0.95, (95%CI 0.94–0.96) respectively). Therefore, with each unit increase in DASH diet score, Mediterranean diet score, MIND diet score, DII score, and DQI score, the odds of MetS was reduced by 5.4%, 14.5%, 15.6%, 22%, 5%, respectively. All the indices were correlated with the intake of most of the micronutrients, with the strongest correlations being observed in the DII. DASH diet score aligned with the most favourable MetS biomarker risk, while DII score primarily associated with MetS and could be considered as a predictor for MetS.ConclusionThe present study’s findings reveal that between all these five diet quality indices, the DASH diet score correlates strongly with a favourable biomarker risk profile, while the DII score is predominantly linked to MetS.

Circulating metabolites associate with the QT interval in individuals without prevalent cardiovascular disease

Abstract Background Patients with metabolic syndrome have a higher prevalence of heart-rate corrected QT (QTc) interval prolongation. Despite this the effect of circulating metabolites on the QTc is largely unknown and limited to small studies. Purpose To test for association of circulating metabolites with the QTc interval in the UK Biobank study. Methods Participants were identified from the UK Biobank with same day plasma metabolite profiling and electrocardiograms. All 249 metabolites measured underwent quality control and log transformation to account for rightward skew and zero values. 149 metabolites with inter-correlations >0.7 were excluded. Participants taking QTc-prolonging medication or with a history of ischaemic heart disease or heart failure up to 6 months after the visit, were excluded. Participants were allocated to a training group (N=21,610) or an independent test group (N=5,304), if samples were obtained at recruitment or at a second visit, respectively. In the training group, each metabolite was tested separately for association with the QTc in linear regression analyses, adjusted for clinical covariates (age, sex, fasting time, body mass index (BMI), systolic blood pressure (SBP), smoking status, diabetes, lipid-lowering drug use and dietary factors). Significant metabolites (P<5x10-4) underwent validation in the test group. Sex-stratified analyses were also performed. In the training group, variables in two models underwent regularisation by LASSO regression (10-fold cross-validation) to reduce multicollinearity and downweigh less important variables; 1) clinical variables, 2) clinical variables and validated metabolites. Coefficients were used for QTc prediction in the test group. Significance between the models was evaluated by fisher’s transformation of R-squared statistics. Results In the per metabolite multivariate analysis, 56 metabolites were associated with the QTc interval. 19 metabolites validated in the test group. For 14 of these, absolute effect sizes were >5ms when comparing individuals in the top decile of the metabolite distribution verses the bottom (Figure 1), including the ketone body 3-hydroxybutyrate (9ms), and omega-6 fatty acid to total fatty acid ratio (7.2ms). For associations in males and females separately, significant effect size differences (P<0.05) were observed for 9 metabolites (Figure 2). In the training group, the combined LASSO model selected 17 (of 19) metabolites along with age, sex, SBP and BMI. In the test group, this model R-squared was 0.115 compared with 0.081 for clinical covariates alone, representing a significant 41.9% increase in QTc variation explained (P=0.002). Conclusions This study demonstrates clinically relevant metabolite associations with the QTc in individuals without cardiovascular disease and explain a significant proportion of QTc variation. Further investigation is warranted to test for direct effects on cardiac electrophysiology and proarrhythmic potential.Validated metabolitesSignificant sex differences

1.G. Scientific session: Forecasting dietary habits trends, human and planetary health

Abstract Extensive research has elucidated that dietary factors are pivotal in influencing both human health and the ecological stability of the planet. Suboptimal dietary patterns are implicated in over 10 million annual fatalities attributable to non-communicable diseases. Concurrently, the agricultural sector, a major component of food production, contributes significantly to environmental degradation. This sector is responsible for more than a quarter of global greenhouse gas emissions and utilizes approximately 50% of the planet’s habitable land. Moreover, it accounts for over 70% of global freshwater consumption and is a primary contributor to marine ecosystem disruption through nutrient runoff leading to ocean eutrophication. Despite these critical linkages, current global trends related to dietary practices show little alignment with the improvements needed to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals set for 2030. The existing policy framework and interventions lag considerably in addressing these concerns. Historical and ongoing discussions have repeatedly highlighted these issues, yet the allocation of resources necessary to counteract the pervasive influence of industry-driven marketing promoting less healthful dietary choices remains markedly inadequate. There is an urgent need to intensify dialogues and enhance the conceptual framework regarding the role of diet in sustaining global health and environmental integrity among public health professionals. Such measures are crucial for facilitating a shift towards more sustainable and health-promoting dietary habits globally. The EUPHA Food and Nutrition Section, the Chronic Diseases Section, in collaboration with the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office for Europe, aim to propose a joint workshop to share innovative research and activities held in the context of diet and environment. The workshop aims to provide new findings and stimulate the debate about the projections for the future of human and planetary health. Key messages • Human health and environmental preservation require an adaptation of dietary habits globally: are we going in the right direction? • Current evidence suggests that there is an wide area of intervention to improve actual dietary habits, reduce the environmental impact, and improve human health.

Outdoor living environment and cardiovascular disease risk: results from a Swedish cohort

Abstract Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide. While sociodemographic, dietary and lifestyle factors have been well documented in relation to CVD, environmental factors have been less studied. However, considering the ongoing biodiversity, climate, and health crises, it is imperative to better understand the interplay between the environment and health. This study aimed to examine the associations between green qualities of the residential environment and CVD. The Malmö Diet and Cancer study is a prospective cohort initiated in the 1990s in the city of Malmö (southern Sweden). At baseline, participants were invited to a health screening, including extensive questionnaires about socioeconomic conditions, lifestyle and diet, clinical examination and blood sampling. The residential coordinates of the participants at baseline were linked to the Scania Outdoor Environment Database comprising scores for a range of perceived qualities of the neighbourhood outdoor environment. Three greenness-related dimensions (serene, natural, diverse) were selected for this substudy. Information on incidence of CVD until 2019 was retrieved from Swedish registers. Adjusted Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate associations between green-related qualities and cardiovascular diseases (major adverse coronary events). Approximately 27000 participants were included, of which 60% were women. The average age at baseline was 58 years old (±8). Mean follow-up was 20 years (±7) and 4318 cases of major adverse coronary events were identified. Preliminary results suggest that several sociodemographic and lifestyle factors, as well as some aspects of neighbourhood greenness, were associated to increased cardiovascular incidence. Neighbourhood greenness might play a role in major adverse coronary events incidence. Further investigation on underlying mechanisms is required. Key messages • Identifying environmental risk factors for cardiovascular disease is of importance for public health. • Neighbourhood greenness might play a role in cardiovascular disease incidence, and underlying mechanisms need to be investigated further.

Independent associations of educational attainment and its joint associations with LE8 score for risk of cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality among Chinese people

Abstract Background/Introduction Educational attainment is a social determinant of health. Quantifying its associations with risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) incidence and mortality has public health importance. Recently, the American Heart Association introduced the Life’s Essential 8 (LE8) score to evaluate CVD risk. However, it remains unclear how educational attainment and the LE8 score interact in their joint associations with CVD and mortality. Purpose To examine the associations of educational level with the incidence of CVD, including coronary heart disease (CHD) and stroke, and total mortality. Also, we examined the joint associations of educational level and the LE8 score with CVD incidence and total mortality. Methods We prospectively followed 91,744 Chinese adults from the Kailuan Study (2006-2021), who were free of CVD at baseline. Information on educational level, diet, lifestyle, and health conditions was collected every 2 years. LE8 score was calculated based on eight components: diet quality, physical activity, smoking status, sleep health, body mass index, blood lipids, blood glucose, and blood pressure. We used time-dependent Cox models to assess the associations of educational level with the outcomes as well as the joint associations of educational level and LE8 score, with adjustments for demographics, dietary and lifestyle factors, and medical history. Results During a mean follow-up of 13.1 years, there were 12,916 incident CVD cases and 13,090 deaths. Compared with the participants who only received illiteracy or elementary education, those who received high school education and above had a lower risk of CVD incidence (HR = 0.82, 95% CI = 0.76, 0.88), stroke incidence (0.72, (0.66, 0.79)), and total mortality (0.73, (0.68, 0.77)). Educational level was not associated with risk of CHD. Furthermore, significant additive interactions between educational attainment and LE8 score on the risk of CVD and mortality were observed (all p values for additive interactions <0.01). Compared with the participants who only received illiteracy or elementary education and had a low LE8 score, those who only received illiteracy or elementary education but had a high LE8 score still had a 27%-47% lower risk of CVD and total mortality, while those who received high school education and above and had a high LE8 score had a 51%-74% lower risk of CVD and total mortality. Conclusions Higher educational level was associated with a lower risk of CVD and mortality. These inverse associations were most apparent among participants with both a high educational level and a high LE8 score, while the participants with a low educational level but with a high LE8 score still had a significantly lower risk. These findings highlight the importance of improvement in educational attainment in preventing CVD events and deaths, and suggest that CVD events and deaths attributable to lower levels of education may be reduced by improving LE8 score.

Sleep characteristics in relation to cardiovascular disease incidence and mortality in individuals with diabetes

Abstract Background/Introduction Evidence regarding the potential health effects of sleep characteristics among individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) is limited. Purpose We aimed to examine sleep characteristics in relation to subsequent risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), including coronary heart disease (CHD), and stroke, and all-cause and cause-specific mortality among individuals with T2D. Methods We prospectively followed 21,902 men and women with T2D at baseline or diagnosed during follow-up (Nurses' Health Study: 1986-2018, Health Professionals Follow-Up Study: 1986-2018). Sleep characteristics, including sleep duration, snoring, sleep apnea, and sleep quality, were repeatedly assessed using self-reported questionnaires at baseline and follow-up. Associations of sleep characteristics with CVD risk and mortality were assessed using Cox proportional hazards models with adjustments for demographic, dietary and lifestyle factors, and medical history. Results During 170,355 and 196,458 person-years of follow-up in participants with T2D, there were 2,486 incident CVD events and 3,922 deaths, respectively. Compared with sleeping for 7-8 h/day, the multivariable-adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) of sleeping for ≤5 h/day were 1.21 (1.02, 1.45) for CVD incidence, 1.24 (1.20, 1.51) for CHD incidence, 1.40 (1.24, 1.58) for total mortality, 1.52 (1.20, 1.92) for CVD mortality, and 1.27 (1.01, 1.61) for other non-CVD and non-cancer mortality, while the HRs of ≥10 h/day were 1.42 (1.21, 1.66) for total mortality, and 1.63 (1.20, 2.10) for other non-CVD and non-cancer mortality. Furthermore, compared with participants without habitual snoring, those with habitual snoring had a 21%, 24%, 18%, and 33% higher risk for CVD incidence, CHD incidence, CVD mortality, and total mortality, respectively. Compared with participants without diagnosed sleep apnea, those with sleep apnea had a 27%-58% higher risk for CVD incidence, CVD mortality, and total mortality. In addition, lower habitual sleep quality, including sleep difficulties and restless sleep, was associated with a substantially higher risk of CVD, CHD, or CVD mortality. No associations were observed between sleep characteristics with risk of stroke and cancer mortality in individuals with T2D. Conclusions Short and long sleep durations as well as habitual snoring, sleep apnea, and lower sleep quality were independently associated with higher risks of CVD incidence and mortality, particularly CVD mortality in individuals with T2D.

Efficacy of diet with low glycemic index on coronary artery disease

Abstract Background Coronary artery disease (CAD) is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with dietary factors playing a significant role in its pathogenesis. The glycemic index (GI) of foods has been implicated in cardiovascular health, with low GI diets hypothesized to reduce the risk of CAD and improve outcomes [1]. However, the efficacy of low glycemic index diets in patients with established CAD remains uncertain. Objective This study aimed to assess the efficacy of a low glycemic index diet on coronary artery disease by evaluating changes in cardiovascular biomarkers and major adverse cardiovascular events (MACE) using Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression models. Material and Methods A randomized controlled trial was conducted involving 156 patients with established coronary artery disease (Aged 43-75 years, mean age 62.4±12.7 years, male=57%). Participants were randomized to either a low glycemic index diet group or a control group receiving standard dietary advice. Changes in cardiovascular biomarkers, including lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and glycemic control parameters, were assessed at baseline and follow-up visits. Major adverse cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, stroke, and cardiovascular death, were recorded over a median follow-up period of 6.2±2.4 years. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression models were used to evaluate the association between adherence to a low glycemic index diet and MACE. Results Preliminary analysis demonstrated significant improvements in cardiovascular biomarkers, including reductions in LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and inflammatory markers, in the low glycemic index diet group compared to the control group (p < 0.05). Kaplan-Meier analysis revealed a lower incidence of MACE in patients adherent to the low glycemic index diet compared to non-adherent patients (log-rank p < 0.05). Cox regression analysis confirmed the independent association between adherence to a low glycemic index diet and reduced risk of MACE after adjusting for confounding factors (hazard ratio [HR], 0.75; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.60-0.95; p < 0.001). Conclusion Our findings suggest that a low glycemic index diet may be efficacious in reducing cardiovascular risk and improving outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease. Adherence to a low glycemic index diet was associated with favorable changes in cardiovascular biomarkers and a reduced risk of major adverse cardiovascular events. Further research is warranted to confirm these findings and elucidate the mechanisms underlying the cardioprotective effects of low glycemic index diets.

Pattern of Birth Defects, Association And Their Outcomes Among Neonates In A Tertiary Care Hospital In Bangladesh

Introduction: Birth defects are one of the major cause of stillbirths and neonatal mortality in developed and developing countries. The prevalence of birth defects varies in different parts of the world. In many cases, the causes are unknown; however, several factors known to be associated are genetic factors, maternal age, health, dietary factors, maternal infections, geographical factors, drugs, smoking and irradiation. Objectives: To identify the pattern of birth defects, association and their outcomes among neonates Methodology: This observational cross-sectional study was conducted in the department of neonatology, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka from 1st July 2019 to 30th June 2021. Sample was collected by purposive sampling technique. Total 407 babies were enrolled. Out of them 207 babies were with birth defects in group-A and 200 babies had no birth defects in group-B. Detail demographic data were collected from the informant and recorded in structured case report form. Clinical examination and relevant investigations were done. Data processing work consist of registration schedules, editing computerization, preparation of dummy table, analyzing and matching of data. Results: In this study the two study groups were almost similar with respect to their demographic characteristics like sex, residence, place of delivery, mode of delivery, gestational age, parity and maternal age. The total number of admission during this period was 3050 and total number of birth defects was 207 (6.78%0). In this study on evaluation of maternal risk factors, group-A maternal high blood pressure were in 25.12% cases( OR=1.62;p=.002), maternal diabetes were in 15.46% cases( OR=1.12;p=.001), poor maternal nutritional status was 14.50%( p=.001), history of taking folic acid was 9.66%(OR=0.10;p=.001), 5.80% of the patient had history of exposure to antenatal radiation(OR=.06;p=.001), 4.43% had history of consanguinity(OR=.05;p=.001), 2.420% of women noticed that exposure to pesticides(OR=.025;p=.001), H/O of taking anticonvulsant was 2.420%(OR=.025;p=.001). Group-B was maternal high blood pressure in 7.25% cases(OR=.078;p=.001), maternal diabetes were in 6.28% cases(OR=.067;p=.001), poor maternal nutritional status was 5.80%(p=.001), history of taking folic acid was 4.83% (OR=.051;p=.001), 1.45% of the patient had history of exposure to antenatal radiation(OR=.015;p=.001) and 0.97% had history of consanguinity(OR=.01;p=.001). In this study pattern of birth defects summarized as the cardiovascular system defects was the most commonly affected(26.57%), followed by defects in the head, neck ear,- and eye(19.32%), Syndromes(14.50%), gastrointestinal defects(12.56%), musculoskeletal system defects(10.14%), central nervous system defects (8.70%) and genitourinary system(4.83%) of total defects. In group-A 78.26% of the patients recovered and 23 patients expired during hospital stay (p=.001). In group-B 85.99% of the patients recovered and 17 patients expired. Conclusion: Congenital cardiac defects were the most prevalent anomaly detected. Maternal high blood pressure and diabetes are the risk factors of birth defects in neonates. Antenatal diagnosis and proper management can improve the outcome of these neonates. J Dhaka Med Coll. 2023; 32(1) : 43-50

Association of FTO variants rs9939609 and rs1421085 with elevated sugar and fat consumption in adult obesity

This cross-sectional study explores the impact of FTO gene single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs9939609 and rs1421085 on dietary habits contributing to obesity risk in Thai adults. The study enrolled 384 participants from Bangkok, categorized as non-obese (BMI < 25 kg/m2) or obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2) based on WHO Asia Pacific Guidelines. Genotyping for FTO variants was performed using DNA from blood samples. While both SNPs adhered to Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium, the association between risk alleles and anthropometric measurements was not statistically significant. However, risk allele carriers showed significantly higher intakes of sugar and saturated fat compared to homozygous dominant individuals. In the obese group, the odds ratio for high-sugar intake was 2.22 (95% CI 1.13–4.37, p = 0.021) for rs9939609 risk allele carriers. For high-saturated fat intake, the odds ratio was 1.86 (95% CI 1.02–3.40, p = 0.041). Similar associations were observed for rs1421085. Risk allele carriers also exhibited significantly higher leptin levels (p < 0.043) and a positive correlation with myeloperoxidase levels (p < 0.038). These findings highlight the complex relationship between FTO risk alleles, increased consumption of sugar and saturated fat, and obesity-related parameters. The insights emphasize the importance of considering both genetic and dietary factors in obesity prevention strategies.

Trajectory of Obesity and the Impact of Eating Behaviors on Obesity in Preschool Children: A Nationwide Population-Based Cohort Study in Korea

Background: Early childhood obesity is highly associated with obesity in adolescents and adults. However, studies on specific eating behaviors that have a decisive effect on obesity in early childhood (aged 3–5 years) are scarce. We hypothesized that critical risk factors associated with eating behaviors leading to obesity at ages of 3–5 years may be different. To confirm this hypothesis, we conducted a study on the risk factors of obesity related to eating behaviors in preschool children. Methods: Using the National Health Screening Program for Infants and Children (NHSPIC) in Korea’s general population cohort, we found the obesity trends in 3–5-year-olds. The risk factors of obesity in 3–5-year-olds were analyzed through logistic regression. Results: Among children with obesity at 3 years old, but without obesity at 4 years old, only 10.1% (107/1063) transitioned to obesity at 5 years old, whereas among children with obesity at 3–4 years old, 62.7% (398/635) transitioned to obesity at 5 years old. The risk factors for obesity at 3 years old were inclusion of meat in complementary food, prolonged breastfeeding, and consumption of sweetened beverages; at ages 4–5 years, the risk factors were the inclusion of meat in complementary food and consumption of sweetened beverages. Conclusions: Obesity at 4 years is more likely to lead to obesity in the following year than obesity at 3 years. The dietary factor with the greatest impact on obesity in children aged 3–5 years has been found to be consumption of sweetened beverages.

The relationship between micronutrients and cognitive ability in an elderly population with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundMild cognitive impairment (MCI) and Alzheimer’s disease (AD) are significant neurodegenerative disorders with increasing prevalence worldwide. Lifestyle and dietary factors, including micronutrients, have been suggested as modifiable risk factors for disease development. This study aims to investigate the association between micronutrients and cognitive ability in these diseases.MethodsA cross-sectional study involving 105 participants with MCI and AD was conducted. Dietary assessments were performed using a validated food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), and micronutrient intake was calculated based on nutrient content. Disease severity was evaluated using the Functional Assessment Staging Tool (FAST). Statistical analyses, including correlation coefficients and multiple regression models, were employed to examine the association between micronutrients and disease progression.ResultsThe results revealed significant correlations between disease severity and several micronutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids (B = -0.2, P = 0.01), carotenoids (B = -0.19, P = 0.02), dietary antioxidant compounds, including vitamins A, C, D, E (B = -0.19, P = 0.02), selenium (B = -0.17, P = 0.03), alpha-carotene (B = -0.16, P = 0.04), beta-carotene (B = -0.17, P = 0.03), and lycopene (B = -0.16, P = 0.04). Multivariate regression analysis showed that higher intake of omega-3 fatty acids was associated with slower disease progression. Furthermore, the levels of these micronutrients declined in advanced stages of the disease.ConclusionOmega-3 fatty acids and carotenoids may affect the cognitive ability and disease progression. Further longitudinal studies are warranted to establish causality and explore the therapeutic implications of these findings for the prevention and management of MCI and AD.

Zinc signaling controls astrocyte-dependent synapse modulation via the PAF receptor pathway.

Astrocytes are important regulators of neuronal development and activity. Their activation plays a key role in the response to many central nervous system (CNS) pathologies. However, reactive astrocytes are a double-edged sword as their chronic or excessive activation may negatively impact CNS physiology, for example, via abnormal modulation of synaptogenesis and synapse function. Accordingly, astrocyte activation has been linked to neurodegenerative and neurodevelopmental disorders. Therefore, the attenuation of astrocyte activation may be an important approach for preventing and treating these disorders. Since zinc deficiency has been consistently linked to increased pro-inflammatory signaling, we aimed to identify cellular zinc-dependent signaling pathways that may lead to astrocyte activation using techniques such as immunocytochemistry and protein biochemistry to detect astrocyte GFAP expression, fluorescent imaging to detect oxidative stress levels in activated astrocytes, cytokine profiling, and analysis of primary neurons subjected to astrocyte secretomes. Our results reveal a so far not well-described pathway in astrocytes, the platelet activation factor receptor (PAFR) pathway, as a critical zinc-dependent signaling pathway that is sufficient to control astrocyte reactivity. Low zinc levels activate PAFR signaling-driven crosstalk between astrocytes and neurons, which alters excitatory synapse formation during development in a PAFR-dependent manner. We conclude that zinc is a crucial signaling ion involved in astrocyte activation and an important dietary factor that controls astrocytic pro-inflammatory processes. Thus, targeting zinc homeostasis may be an important approach in several neuroinflammatory conditions.

Relationships between oxidative balance score and asthma, COPD, with asthma-COPD overlap in American adults: Findings from NHANES 2013-2018

Background Oxidative stress plays a crucial role in the development of multiple chronic respiratory diseases. Oxidative Balance Score (OBS) composing of 16 dietary factors and 4 lifestyle factors has been developed to evaluate the effect of oxidants/antioxidants produced by dietary intake and lifestyle habits on the overall oxidative balance. However, the relationships between OBS with asthma, COPD, and asthma-COPD overlap (ACO) are still unclear. Methods A total of 10,942 adults aged 20 years and older from the 2013-2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were included in the analyses. ANOVA and chi-square tests were used to compare characteristics between different OBS subgroups.Multiple multivariate logistic regression was used to analyze the associations between OBS and asthma, COPD, and ACO.RCS curves were used to describe the dose-response effect of the associations. Subgroup analyses and interaction effects were employed to reflect the stability of the associations. Results In the fully adjusted models, OBS was found to be negatively associated with asthma, COPD, and ACO. OBS at Q2, Q3, and Q4 (OR: 0.66, 95% CI: 0.46-0.97) were negatively associated with the risk of asthma. OBS at Q2 and Q4 were negatively associated with the risk of COPD. OBS at Q2 and Q4 were negatively associated with the risk of ACO. The RCS curves reflected the negative dose-response trend of association. Moreover, the associations were stable in various subgroups. Conclusion The negative associations between OBS and asthma, COPD, and ACO were found in American adults, providing evidence for dietary and lifestyle prevention.

Epidemiological Insights into Diabetes, Hypertension, and Cardiovascular Diseases: Implications for Public Health Nutrition

This review examines the epidemiological understanding of diabetes, hypertension, and cardiovascular diseases as interconnected nutritional disorders. These conditions, sharing common dietary and lifestyle risk factors, collectively represent significant global public health challenges that require integrated investigation and intervention approaches. Epidemiological approaches, including descriptive, analytical, and interventional designs, emphasizing their strengths and limitations in investigating disease prevalence, risk factors, and potential interventions. It scrutinizes the utilisation of routine population data and surveillance systems in estimating disease burden and assessing intervention effectiveness, focusing on large-scale population-based studies and national surveys. Advanced statistical analyses enhance data interpretation while accounting for demographic variables, ensuring precise comparative analyses across populations. The application of standardization techniques and robust statistical methods strengthens epidemiological findings and minimizes potential biases. A coordinated, multidisciplinary approach is essential for translating epidemiological evidence into effective public health interventions, emphasizing collaboration between epidemiologists, healthcare practitioners, and policymakers. This analysis provides insights for researchers, public health professionals, and policymakers engaged in addressing nutrition-related chronic diseases through epidemiological approaches, highlighting the field's potential to mitigate the escalating burden of these conditions while acknowledging its limitations.

Risk Factors Associated with Gastritis among Adult Patients Attending at Capital Hospital in Mogadishu- Somalia

Background: Gastritis, an inflammatory disorder affecting the lining of the stomach, is a prevalent health concern across the globe, particularly in developing regions like Somalia. This study aims to investigate the primary risk factors linked to gastritis among adults receiving care at Capital Hospital in Mogadishu.  Methods: An unmatched case-control study was executed from June 1 to July 30, 2024, involving 63 adult participants, with 21 patients diagnosed with gastritis through endoscopic procedures and 42 controls. A semi- structured questionnaire was employed to gather data on socio-demographic characteristics, dietary patterns, lifestyle habits, medical histories, and medication usage. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26.  Results: The investigation revealed a gastritis prevalence of 78.8%, with acute cases constituting 48.9% and chronic cases 29.9%. Female participants were identified as having a protective effect against gastritis (Adjusted Odds Ratio [AOR]=0.05, p=0.023), whereas the routine use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) significantly raised the risk (Crude Odds Ratio [COR]=5.03, p=0.041). Interestingly, the presence of Helicobacter pylori was associated with a reduced risk of developing gastritis (COR=0.11, p=0.032). Other lifestyle and dietary factors did not show significant correlations.  Conclusions: The results underscore the protective influence of gender and the associated risks of NSAID intake regarding gastritis among Somali adults. The unexpected finding of H. pylori infection linked to lower gastritis risk deserves further exploration. There is an urgent need for targeted public health strategies to address the effects of gastritis in Somalia.

Exploring Dietary Factors and Esophageal Adenocarcinoma: Insights From Mendelian Randomization Study

ABSTRACTEsophageal adenocarcinoma and diet are not well understood to be associated. We conducted Mendelian randomization analysis using 18 dietary factors as exposures (primarily including fruit consumption, vegetable consumption, alcohol consumption, meat consumption, tea intake, fish intake, etc.), with esophageal adenocarcinoma as the outcome. The IVW method was the leading method used for detecting causal links. Cochran's Q test was utilized to assess heterogeneity, the intercept of the MR‐Egger method was used to assess the presence of horizontal pleiotropy, and the existence of outliers was identified via the MR‐Presso method. This study identified that both alcohol intake frequency (OR = 1.375, p = 0.0216) and coffee intake (OR = 2.680, p = 0.0304) were linked to a heightened risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma, while raw vegetable/salad consumption (OR = 0.117, p = 0.0258) and dried fruit intake (OR = 0.229, p = 0.00235) were associated with a decreased risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. After FDR correction, only dried fruit intake (q = 0.0423) remained statistically significant. However, there was no evidence linking the other 14 dietary variables to esophageal adenocarcinoma. This study observed that alcohol consumption and coffee intake increase the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma, while the intake of dried fruits rather than fresh fruits and raw vegetable intake rather than cooked vegetable intake reduce the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma. Other dietary factors were not associated with the risk of esophageal adenocarcinoma.

Oxidative stress and inflammation mediate the association between elevated oxidative balance scores and improved sleep quality: evidence from NHANES

BackgroundThe association between oxidative stress, as measured by the Oxidative Balance Score (OBS), and sleep quality remains unclear. The primary objective of this investigation was to clarify this relationship and to explore the potential involvement of oxidative stress and inflammation.MethodsData from 15,198 participants in the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2007–2014 were analyzed. Sleep quality indicators, including sleep disorder, trouble, and duration, were assessed. The OBS, comprising information on 16 dietary nutrients and 4 lifestyle factors, was then calculated. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were employed to investigate the correlation between OBS and sleep quality. Additionally, mediation analyses were conducted to evaluate the potential effects of oxidative stress and inflammation.ResultsWe demonstrated a correlation between an elevated OBS and reduced sleep disorders (OR, 0.72; 95% CI, 0.58–0.91; p = 0.0055), reduced sleep trouble (OR, 0.81; 95% CI, 0.69–0.96; p = 0.0174), and prolonged sleep duration (β 0.009; 95% CI, 0.0002–0.0160; p = 0.015) when comparing the highest and lowest tertiles. Dietary factors exhibited autonomous correlations with sleep duration, whereas lifestyle factors displayed independent associations with sleep trouble and sleep disorders. Moreover, the relationships between OBS and both sleep disorders and trouble were influenced by albumin, γ-glutamyl transferase, total bilirubin, and white blood cells, with combined mediation effects of 34.66 and 29.54%, respectively (both p &amp;lt; 0.001). Sensitivity analyses revealed a significant association between OBS and sleep disorder (p &amp;lt; 0.001).ConclusionThis study revealed a positive correlation between an elevated OBS and improved sleep quality, manifested by decreased sleep disorders, mitigated sleep trouble, and prolonged sleep duration. This is potentially mediated by oxidative stress and inflammation. Therefore, the study underscores the importance of adopting a diet rich in antioxidants and healthy lifestyle choices to address sleep-related concerns, providing a novel avenue for enhancing overall sleep quality.