Dietary Practices Research Articles

Dietary Transitions and Sustainability Among Asian International Tertiary Education Students in Western Countries: A Scoping Review

Western countries host a significant number of international tertiary students from Asia, who often undergo dietary acculturation, impacting their health, well-being, and the sustainability of their diets. This scoping review critically examines dietary transitions among this demographic, focusing on the extent, nature, and drivers of these changes, with a strong emphasis on sustainability implications. We conducted a comprehensive search across five databases from 2014 to 2024, including all review types, primary studies, and theses/dissertations, yielding thirty-eight relevant studies. The results reveal a marked shift from traditional to Western dietary patterns, characterised by increased consumption of processed foods and decreased intake of culturally traditional foods. Despite the challenges of limited access to traditional food stores and unfamiliar food environments, students showed a strong preference for maintaining their traditional dietary habits. Notably, the shift towards higher consumption of meat, dairy, and sugary foods, coupled with lower intake of fruits, vegetables, and fish, underscores the urgent need for policies that support access to culturally appropriate, environmentally sustainable food choices. This review advocates for a reinforced focus on integrating culturally sensitive, sustainable dietary practices into strategies aimed at supporting international students.

Environmental constraints and diffusion shaped the global transition to food production

The transition from foraging to plant cultivation represents the most important shift in the economic history of early Holocene societies. This process unfolded independently in different regions of the globe, resulting in varied plant assemblages, cultivation strategies, dietary practices, and landscape modifications. To investigate the drivers of this transition, we employed a machine-learning approach. Using Random Survival Forest, we analyze a comprehensive dataset of radiocarbon dates linked to the first adoption of domesticated plants, coupled with environmental predictors. Our findings indicate strong spatial autocorrelation in the timing of agricultural adoption, underscoring the role of diffusion and contact between regions. Region-specific bioclimatic factors emerged as influential: in the Americas, mean temperature and temperature seasonality were critical, while in Southwest Asia and Europe, seasonal variation in precipitation relative to temperature held greater importance. These results suggest that diffusion facilitated the spread of agricultural practices in a process shaped by local environmental conditions, as it was not possible to determine a set of universal drivers. Thus, the emergence of food production was influenced by a combination of local factors and cultural transmission, leaving the specific determinants for each region’s first transition an open question for further study.

Identifying Factors Associated With Breastfeeding Length Among Filipino Migrant Women in South Korea

ABSTRACTBackgroundMigrant women becoming mothers often face social, economic, and family challenges that can affect their dietary and breastfeeding practices. This study identified factors associated with breastfeeding length in migrant women.MethodsThe study sample involved 504 migrant women from the Filipino Women's Diet and Health Study (FiLWHEL) in 2014–2016. Two‐hundred‐seventy women who had completed information on demographic characteristics, 24‐h dietary recall, breastfeeding, parity, and health conditions were included in the analysis. Multivariable logistic and linear regression models were applied to identify significant factors associated with breastfeeding length cross‐sectionally.ResultsThe median (interquartile range [IQR]) for age was 35 (30, 40) years, and the mean body mass index (BMI) was 23.8 kg/m2; 62 women (23%) were breastfeeding for at least 1 year, with the median (IQR) length of 4 (1, 10) months per child. The median (IQR) of the total intake of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes was 165.5 (76.9, 265.9) g/day. Women who consumed the highest tertile of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and legumes compared to those in the lowest tertile were more likely to breastfeed for at least 12 months (adjusted‐OR [95% CI]: 2.24 [1.08–4.67]), primarily driven by vegetable consumption (adjusted‐OR [95% CI]: 2.34 [1.11–4.93]). Additionally, women in the highest tertile of these food groups or earned an annual income of 20–40 M KRW (~15–30 K USD) appeared to breastfeed longer compared to their counterparts (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis study suggests that dietary quality and income may impact breastfeeding duration for migrant women in South Korea.

Dietary intake among youth adhering to vegan, lacto-ovo-vegetarian, pescatarian or omnivorous diets in Sweden

ObjectiveTo assess the intakes of food groups, energy, and macronutrients among youth in Sweden who adhere to vegan, lacto-ovo-vegetarian, pescatarian or omnivorous diets. Further, to evaluate youth’s adherence to the food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG).DesignIn this cross-sectional study, dietary intake data was obtained through repeated non-consecutive 24-h dietary recalls (24HDR) and a dietary screener assessing consumption frequency of food groups. Usual daily intakes were estimated using the Multiple Source Method (MSM), and for usual intakes of food groups the 24HDR intake data was combined with consumption frequency.SettingGothenburg, Sweden, December 2022–January 2024.ParticipantsIn total 235 youth (78% female, mean age 22 ± 2 years), consisting of 60 vegans, 59 lacto-ovo-vegetarians, 55 pescatarians, and 61 omnivores.ResultsFor usual intakes (median value), both g/d and g/MJ, all plant-based dietary groups had higher intakes of legumes and plant-based meat analogs compared to omnivores (for all, p < 0.001), and vegans and lacto-ovo-vegetarians had higher intakes of plant-based dairy substitutes (vs. pescatarians and omnivores, p < 0.001). Moreover, vegans had higher intakes of refined grain products (vs. pescatarians, p = 0.012), nuts/seeds (vs. pescatarians and omnivores, p = 0.002), and vegetable oil (vs. omnivores, p = 0.014). Omnivores had higher intakes of fried/premade potato dishes (vs. lacto-ovo-vegetarians and vegans, p < 0.001), and lower intakes of plain potatoes (vs. lacto-ovo-vegetarians and pescatarians, p < 0.001). Overall intakes of ‘sweets and snack foods’ did not differ between dietary groups. Omnivores had higher usual intakes of energy compared to lacto-ovo-vegetarians and pescatarians (10 vs. 9 MJ/d, p = 0.016). Most macronutrient recommendations were met across groups, except for carbohydrates (below for omnivores), fiber (below for omnivores and pescatarians), and saturated fatty acids (exceeded by all except vegans). For the FBDG for whole grains, omnivores (23%) had a higher adherence vs. vegans (2%) and lacto-ovo-vegetarians (3%), p < 0.001. No difference was found between dietary groups for adherence to the FBDG’s for fruits, berries, and vegetables (10%), nuts (24%), and vegetable oil (4%).ConclusionSwedish youth, regardless of dietary practice, need to increase intakes of fruits, berries, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains, and limit consumption of discretionary foods to better align with food and nutrition recommendations.

Effectiveness of patient education on adherence to treatment regimen and quality of life in hemodialysis patients: a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Hemodialysis constitutes a protracted therapeutic intervention for renal failure, characterized by symptoms that exert a considerable toll on quality of life owing to their intensity and frequent recurrence. Patient education and engagement has been shown to enhance adherence, thereby improving treatment effectiveness and quality of life. The objective of this systematic review was to assess the effectiveness of patient education on improving adherence to treatment and enhancing quality of life among individuals undergoing hemodialysis. The systematic review and meta-analysis followed PRISMA's Preferred Reporting Item for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines. The studies were evaluated utilizing the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology. The search utilized several databases including PubMed, CINAHL, Ovid, Wiley Online Library, Springer Link, and Google Scholar. Studies that specifically examined treatment adherence encompassing aspect such as fluid restriction, dietary modification, medication usage, electrolyte balance, and interdialytic weight management) as well as those assessing quality of life were included in this review. A total of 15 studies met the inclusion criteria. The studies explored adherence to various facets of treatment including fluids and electrolytes management (potassium, phosphate, creatinine level), medication usage (compliance with prescribe medication), dietary practices (adaptation according to disease and hemodialysis requirement), interdialytic weight management, and quality of life. Seven of these studies focus on investigating the quality of life, while the remaining eight examined specific components of treatment adherence. Due to the variation in methods, the results are described narratively. A quantitative synthesis was conducted using Revman 5.0 to assess the impact of educational intervention. This meta-analysis evaluated the pooled effects of adherence to fluids, electrolytes (creatinine), diet, and quality of life. A significant improvement is shown in fluid adherence (MD=35.18, 95% CI: 22.35, 48.0) (overall effect Z=5.38, P<0.0001), dietary modification (MD=37.50, 95% CI: 24.65, 50.35) (Overall effect Z=5.72, P=0.0001), and quality of life (MD=8.50, 95% CI: 4.50, 12.50, (overall effect Z=4.17, P=0.0001). However, no significant effect is observed on the creatinine level (MD=-0.50, 95% CI: -1.38, 0.38) (Z=1.12, P=0.026). The observed level of heterogeneity ranged from low to moderate. Hemodialysis impacts various aspects of patients' lives. This systematic review shows that nursing education and behavior monitoring in patients undergoing hemodialysis contributes to improving their adherence to treatment and quality of life. The evaluated pooled effect and mean difference in meta-analysis findings shows that the educational interventions improve adherence to fluids and diet, as well as maintain creatinine balance and enhance quality of life.

Exploring Experiences Regarding Breastfeeding Among Mothers: A Qualitative Enquiry

Background: The implication and outcome of breastfeeding on mother's and infant's health keeping in mind the effects it will have when viewed as short-term and long-term aspects depends on the overall health of the infant. Child’s optimal physical and mental growth, intelligence, satisfaction of mother's and infant's emotional bonding, reduced infections, certain respiratory conditions is directly proportional to the adequacy and sufficiency of the breastmilk given by the mother. Mother’s breastmilk is regarded as the purified nectar for the young one which sets standards for the lifelong healthy living of the neonate. And therefore, World Health Organization has been insisting on exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months and to be continued upto 2 years along with the weaning foods. However, its alarming to note that the rate at which exclusive breastfeeding is done is below 37 % as reported by American Academy of Paediatrics. Aim: The aim of the present study was to identify and study the missing elements among women who fail to recognize the factors which hinders their decision to continue breastfeeding, promote breastfeeding from their point of view. Materials &amp; Methods: A qualitative approach with phenomenological research design was deployed for the study. Non- Probability Purposive sampling techniques was adopted for the study. 19 Postnatal mothers who were exclusively breastfeeding their infants were interviewed in depth with semi structured interview questions. Both primipara &amp; multipara mothers were recruited for the study. The study setting was urban areas of metropolitan city. Analysis was done through thematic analysis where codes were formulated, sub themes were drawn and themes were identified. Results: The results were analyzed, which gave rise to seven themes, with sub-themes revolving around the themes drawn, 80 codes were identified which justified the emergence of themes. Themes were as: Knowledge Source, unskilled breastfeeding practice,(Inadequacy in handling the newborn during feeding), over influx of information and knowledge, traditional belief system, emerging problems during breastfeeding causing hinderance, Balancing Work, societal support for breastfeeding. Conclusion: The study emphasizes that mothers do have knowledge from different sources, too much knowledge which at times becomes overt at may be confusing to the mothers especially the primipara postnatal mothers. They need assistance while feeding the newborn which again is typically narrated by the both primipara &amp; multipara mothers. Traditional blief systems play a major role in the myths , beliefs , traditional dietary practices which influences the choices and breastfeeding practices. Problems associated with breastfeeding affect the feeding practices also causes issues with the mothers. Working mothers always have a guilt approach which sadly is unseen by the employers which adds to the apathy of the working postnatal mother. Societal help, support is always a welcome sign for the mothers who need to be understood, love and cared for during the most crucial turn of her life.

A comparative analysis of oral hygiene practices and daily dietary habits between dental and Allied health sciences students: An observational study

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE: Oral hygiene and dietary habits play important roles in maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Undergraduate students of allied health sciences and dentistry need to have adequate knowledge of diet and nutrition. This study aims to find out the Oral hygiene practices and daily dietary habits of dental and Allied health sciences students in order to assess their knowledge and health priorities. METHODOLOGY: Dietary and oral hygiene practices of 224 (n=112) undergraduate dental and Allied Health Sciences students from two local dental colleges were surveyed for this cross-sectional study using a convenience sampling technique. A semi-structured close-ended questionnaire was employed to collect data after taking informed consent. Data was analyzed using SPSS version 23. The results are presented as percentages and p &lt; 0.05 was considered significant. RESULTS: The comparison of oral hygiene practices among undergraduate BDS and AHS students using a semi-structured closed-ended questionnaire showed statistical significance in different variables, including routine brushing (p&lt;0.05), dental flossing (p=0.004), and dental consultation (p=0.048), indicating that dental students were more conscious about oral hygiene than the AHS group. In contrast, the comparison of dietary habits of both undergraduate groups did not show any significant difference, except for fruit and vegetable intake. Allied Health students showed better intake of fruits and vegetables (p &lt; 0.05). CONCLUSION: Dental students demonstrated better oral hygiene practices compared to Allied Health Sciences students, reflecting greater awareness and adherence to the recommended oral care routines. However, Allied Health students exhibited better dietary habits, particularly with a higher intake of fruits and vegetables. These findings suggest the need for targeted educational interventions to address gaps in oral hygiene and dietary habits among undergraduate students in both fields.

Epidemiology, Prevention and Management of Lipid Disorders in India

Epidemiology, Prevention and Management of Lipid Disorders in India

Evaluating the Relationship Between Medication Adherence, Dietary Practices, and Physical Activity in Heart Transplant Recipients.

Medication adherence is critical to improve quality of life, reduce transplant-related complications, and increase survival. Nonadherent health behaviors after heart transplantation lead to increased morbidity and mortality, decreased quality of life, increased medical costs, and overuse of healthcare services in heart transplant patients (HTR). This study examined the relationship between heart transplant recipients' medication adherence, dietary practices, and physical activity. This cross-sectional study was conducted at a university hospital's Heart and Lung Transplant Outpatient Clinic. The sample included adult HTR who had undergone transplantation at least 6 months prior. Data were collected using the Basel Assessment of Adherence to Immunosuppressive Medication Scale, a Nutritional Behaviors Questionnaire, and the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form Statistical analyses using SPSS 24.0, with significance set at p < 0.05. Among 70 participants, 42.85% were non-adherent to immunosuppressive medications. Factors influencing adherence included age and time since transplantation. Dietary assessments revealed that while most patients practiced washing fruits and vegetables, adherence to other food safety measures was low. Physical activity levels indicated that 50% of participants were physically inactive, with high body mass index significantly correlating with lower activity levels. Patients with medication adherence had higher physical activity levels. The study highlights the critical need for targeted interventions to improve medication adherence, dietary practices, and physical activity among HTR. Addressing these factors is essential for enhancing patient outcomes, reducing morbidity and mortality, and improving quality of life posttransplant. Further research is warranted to explore the barriers and facilitators influencing these health behaviors in diverse populations.

Therapeutic Ketosis for Heart Failure: A State-of-the-Art-Review.

Heart failure is characterized by an energy-deprived heart, and in recent years it has been found that the failing heart increases ketone body oxidation to meet its energy demands. Accumulating evidence suggests that this metabolic adaptation is cardioprotective, suggesting that interventions that boost blood ketone levels could aid the failing heart. Indeed, multiple small clinical trials with short-term follow up have demonstrated that supplying the failing heart with exogenous ketone bodies may improve myocardial function across various manifestations of heart failure. As such, therapeutic ketosis, which is a metabolic state in which blood ketone levels are mildly elevated, could have great potential to ameliorate heart failure. Therapeutic ketosis can be achieved endogenously via exercise or dietary practices, exogenously via supplementation with ketone bodies, or pharmacologically via treatment with a sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor. Although ketosis-inducing practices cannot be routinely recommended to patients with heart failure at this time due to a lack of robust data regarding the long-term benefits and risks, anecdotal evidence suggests that some patients have begun to adopt ketosis-inducing practices, so it is important for clinicians to be aware of how to optimally manage patients who are in therapeutic ketosis. In this review, we discuss myocardial ketone metabolism in heart failure, the current evidence for therapeutic ketosis in patients with heart failure, a framework to distinguish between therapeutic ketosis and the pathologic state of ketoacidosis, and practical considerations for managing patients adhering to ketosis-inducing practices.

A robust and generalized framework in diabetes classification across heterogeneous environments.

A robust and generalized framework in diabetes classification across heterogeneous environments.

Assessment of different dietary soybean meals and corn fermented protein in practical diets for fingerling channel catfish.

Assessment of different dietary soybean meals and corn fermented protein in practical diets for fingerling channel catfish.

Research Note: Additivity of P digestibility values previously determined using 4 dietary Ca levels for plant-based feedstuffs in broiler grower diets.

Research Note: Additivity of P digestibility values previously determined using 4 dietary Ca levels for plant-based feedstuffs in broiler grower diets.

Do pandemics influence food choice motives, diet, and health behaviors? Evidence from a cross-sectional survey in Pakistan during the COVID-19 pandemic

BackgroundCOVID-19 has significantly impacted the health and well-being of individuals by influencing their diet and lifestyle. Therefore, this study was designed to compare the dietary and health practices pre- and post-COVID-19 infection and to study the association of changes in dietary and health practices with the change in food choice motives.MethodsAn online cross-sectional survey was conducted, and retrospective data was gathered from 259 recovered cases of COVID-19 aged 18–50 years in Pakistan. The survey questionnaire included socio-demographic information, adherence to Pakistan dietary guidelines, Breslow’s health practices, and food choice motives. Shapiro-Wilk test was used to analyze the normality of data. McNemar’s test and Wilcoxon sign ranked test were used to determine the change in the dietary practices, health practices, and food choice motives scores pre- and post-COVID-19 infection. Spearman correlation and multiple linear regression were used to study the relation between the changes in dietary practices, health practices, and food choice motives.ResultsDietary practices improved (mean ± SD: 0.17 ± 1.56), and health practices deteriorated (mean ± SD: -0.18 ± 1.36) after COVID-19 infection. The importance of convenience, health, mood, natural content, weight control, familiarity, and ethical concerns while choosing food increased after suffering from COVID-19. Improvement in dietary practices was correlated with health practices (r = 0.32), convenience (r = 0.15), health concern (r = 0.16), mood (r = 0.18), and natural content of food (r = 0.15). Changes in dietary practices were found to be negatively associated (p = 0.043, B=-0.145) with the price of food.ConclusionWe conclude that the food choice motives of the Pakistani population changed during COVID-19. This change in food choice motives was found to be related to dietary and health practices.

Dietary Practices of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus Outpatients at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, Nairobi City County, Kenya: A Cross-Sectional Survey

The increasing prevalence of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a major public health challenge globally, with Kenya experiencing a rising burden of the disease. Proper dietary management is essential for blood glucose regulation and the prevention of diabetes-related complications. This study assessed the dietary practices of T2DM outpatients at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital, Nairobi, Kenya, and evaluated their adherence to recommended dietary guidelines. An analytical cross-sectional survey was conducted among 165 respondents using structured questionnaires to collect socio-demographic and dietary intake data. A 24-hour dietary recall, a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and a Focused Group Discussion (FGD) were used to assess food consumption patterns and gather qualitative insights into patients&amp;apos; dietary behaviors. The study sample comprised 98 (59.4%) female and 67 (40.6%) male participants. Among them, 88 (53.3%) had been living with T2DM for 0-5 years while 33 (20.0%) had lived with the condition for 6-10 years. Regarding the highest level of education attained, 76 (46.1%) had completed secondary education, 45 (27.3%) primary education, and 36 (21.8%) tertiary education. Employment data showed that 79 (47.9%) of the respondents were self-employed, 35 (21.2%) were formally employed, while 28 (17.0%) were unemployed. Healthcare providers played a crucial role in offering dietary guidance, with 144 (87.3%) of respondents reporting having received dietary recommendations. Among them, 102 (61.8%) had received dietary guidance during their first visit, while 41 (24.8%) received it at a later stage. Only 22 (13.3%) of the respondents reported not having received any dietary counseling. The mean energy intake per day was 1,277 ± 576 kcal, falling below the recommended dietary requirements. While staple foods such as maize, rice, and wheat-based products were widely consumed, there was poor intake of fiber-rich foods, fruits, and lean proteins. Financial constraints and limited nutritional awareness were significant hindrances to recommended dietary practices. This study found that the dietary practices of T2DM patients do not fully align with the recommended dietary guidelines for diabetes management. The findings also indicated a need for improved timely nutrition education and sustained dietary support throughout T2DM management. The inclusion of a Focused Group Discussion provided further insights into patient challenges, highlighting the need for continuous professional dietary counseling and education. Future research should examine the effectiveness of structured dietary interventions on glycemic control and long-term disease management.

ASSESSMENT OF NUTRITIONAL STATUS OF PEOPLE LIVING WITH HIV/AIDS ON ART DRUG

HIV is a virus that attacks the immune system by infecting CD4 cells, damaging them and making the body more susceptible to opportunistic infections (OIs). Poor nutrition can exacerbate this issue by further weakening the immune system and increasing the risk of OIs. This study evaluated the nutritional status, dietary practices, and dietary management of people living with HIV/AIDS (PLWHA). A descriptive case study design was utilized, involving 194 HIV-infected individuals receiving treatment at General Hospital Kaura Namoda in Zamfara State. Anthropometric measurements were taken, blood samples were collected for biochemical analysis, and a semi-structured questionnaire was administered to assess the participants' nutritional status. Among the participants, 59.8% were female, while 40.2% were male. The age distribution showed that 38.6% of the patients were between 30 and 39 years old, with 26.2% being female and 12.4% male. Additionally, 81.8% had attended school, while 18.2% had not. The survey revealed that 80% of the patients were married, and 74% were unemployed. Dietary intake analysis indicated that the consumption of macro- and micronutrients was inadequate compared to the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDA). Body Mass Index (BMI) assessments showed that 46% of the PLWHA receiving treatment at General Hospital Kaura Namoda were underweight (BMI &lt; 18 kg/m²). Also the result of the biochemical analysis indicated that serum albumin and total protein concentrations were significantly (p&lt;0.05) lower in HIV-positive patients than in HIV-negative controls. These findings highlight the importance of proper dietary management for PLWHA to prevent malnutrition and associated complications. If not adequately...

Leveraging natural antioxidants in disease prevention: Investigating the role of medicinal herbs in reducing oxidative stress and chronic disease

Oxidative stress causes damage to free radicals, which are associated with the chronic conditions of cardiovascular problems, diabetes, and even neurological processes. Antioxidants are the primary stress relievers of oxidative stress and serve as the body’s defense mechanism to reduce the damage inflicted. Herbs rich in antioxidants can serve as an effective mediatory option against oxidative stress and chronic diseases. Traditional medicine has been employing herbal medicine long before modern scientific research started, and the discovery of bioactive compounds made people pay attention to them. Herbs, including polyphenols, flavonoids, and vitamins, need to be studied because they mediate several things, and their antioxidant activity saves cells from destructors: free radicals. Targeting oxidative stress at the cellular and molecular level, this research is centered around specific polyphenols, flavonoids, vitamins, and herbs with known antioxidant effects. With the combination of clinical, in vitro research, and animal studies, the significant potential these herbs have in combatting oxidative complications is assessed. Furthermore, it examines the combined effects of several herbs with antioxidant properties, which provides an innovative perspective on their application in preventive medicine. The consideration of dietary practices that include herbal medicine as one component of a more comprehensive strategy to mitigate the emergence of chronic conditions is also examined. In summary, this research highlights the potential of herbs as natural sources of antioxidants to decrease oxidative stress and enhance health and longevity. We are also attempting to improve the prescription of these herbs for modern purposes of disease prevention.

Foodscapes and the Resurgence of Sinologism: Chinese Dietary and Medicinal Practices in Peter Hessler’s Works

Foodscapes and the Resurgence of Sinologism: Chinese Dietary and Medicinal Practices in Peter Hessler’s Works

Knowledge, Perceptions and Practices of Salt Intake Among Hypertensive Patients Attending Out Patient Department in a Hospital in Pune

Introduction: Hypertension is a prevalent cardiovascular condition that can be significantly influenced by dietary habits, particularly sodium intake. However, adherence to recommended dietary guidelines, including salt limits, is often suboptimal at the population level. This lack of adherence may be attributed to limited awareness of dietary recommendations among hypertensive patients, emphasizing the need for improved education on nutritional guidelines. This study explores the levels of knowledge, awareness, and adherence to recommended salt intake practices among hypertensive patients attending outpatient departments (OPD). The objective is to assess existing gaps in understanding and implementing dietary guidelines among this patient population.Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 500 hypertensive patients attending various OPDs. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire that gathered information on demographic characteristics, knowledge of the relationship between salt intake and hypertension, awareness of recommended daily salt limits, and self-reported salt consumption practices. Additionally, the study assessed participants' awareness of the potential health consequences associated with high salt intake.Results: The study revealed significant variations in knowledge and adherence to dietary guidelines. 52.8 percent study participants had adequate knowledge regarding salt consumption. While 62% of participants demonstrated adequate awareness of the adverse effects of excessive salt intake, 38% remained misinformed or unsure. Knowledge of recommended salt intake was accurate among 54% of respondents, while 46% lacked correct information. Similarly, sodium intake recommendations were correctly identified by only 48%, with 52% unsure or incorrect. Despite 58% of participants recognizing the importance of salt reduction for blood pressure control, 42% perceived it as unimportant.Regarding dietary practices, adherence to salt reduction strategies was low. Only 30% reported using spices instead of salt, cooking without added salt, avoiding salt at the table, and reading food labels. Additionally, 60% of participants continued consuming processed foods, highlighting a disconnect between awareness and practice. Gender differences were statistically significant in salt knowledge and consumption practices (p=0.002), emphasizing the need for gender-specific educational strategies.Conclusion: These findings highlight the urgent need for targeted interventions to improve awareness and promote adherence to dietary recommendations among hypertensive individuals. Bridging the gap between knowledge and practice through tailored educational programs and behavioral support mechanisms may enhance hypertension management and reduce associated health risks. Addressing these gaps with structured interventions could lead to better adherence to sodium guidelines and improved cardiovascular health outcomes.

Women with hemophilic children: knowledge and care practices

Introduction: hemophilia carries complications and comorbidities which impact quality of life of the patient and his caregiver, typically a woman. Objective: to describe the experiences, knowledge and care practices of mothers of sons diagnosed with severe and/or moderate symptomatic hemophilia, seen at a hospital in Colombia. Methodology: a qualitative hermeneutic phenomenological study. Nine mother caregivers participated. In-depth interviews and a focus group were used for data obtention. A simultaneous analysis with data collection was conducted using the Strauss and Corbin proposal. The study complied with the ethical considerations set by Resolution 8430 of 1993 of the Colombian Ministry of Health which rated it as minimum risk research. Results: the following is highlighted from the information provided by caregivers: 1. Hemophilia as a condition that allows the individual´s normal development and not as a disease, 2. Insistence on that hemophilia is not infectious or transmissible by blood, 3. The perception that it is only transmitted by females. 4. The introduction of the clotting factor prophylaxis has improved patients´ physical status, 5. Practices aimed at preventing and reducing complications. 6. The importance of physical, emotional and spiritual care of their children. Conclusions: hemophilia creates an unbreakable bond between mothers and children due to the high demand of care, based on its complexity. Two categories emerged from the information provided by mothers: knowledge about hemophilia and care process, and physical, emotional, religious and dietary care practices.