Frequency Of Food Consumption Research Articles

Associations between temporal eating patterns and energy distribution patterns with gallstones: a cross-sectional study based on NHANES 2017–2018

BackgroundGallstones are strongly associated with eating occasion (EO) and energy distribution, but few studies have addressed this aspect. Therefore, we utilize the data from 2017 to 2018 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) to explore the association between temporal eating patterns and energy distribution patterns with the incidence of gallstones.MethodsOur study comprised participants who completed the NHANES dietary intake interview and self-reported health questionnaire at age 20 or older. The self-report method for gallstones (have you ever been told by a doctor) was used. We use the latent class analysis (LCA) identified temporal eating patterns, and identified energy distribution patterns through latent profile analysis (LPA). The association between temporal eating patterns, energy distribution patterns, and gallstones was examined using logistic regression modeling.ResultsThe study included a total of 4,692 participants. LCA identified four temporal eating patterns labeled as “Conventional,” “Early breakfast,” “Later breakfast,” and “Grazing.” Compared to the “Conventional” pattern, the “Early breakfast” pattern (OR 0.809, 95%CI 0.808–0.811) was associated with a reduced risk of gallstones, while the “Later breakfast” (OR 1.435, 95%CI 1.432–1.438) and “Grazing” (OR 1.147, 95%CI 1.145–1.148) patterns were associated with an increased risk of gallstones. LPA identified four energy distribution patterns labeled as “Guideline,” “High carbohydrates,” “Carbs-fat balance,” and “High fat.” The “High carbohydrates” pattern (OR 1.329, 95%CI 1.326–1.331) was associated with an increased risk of gallstones compared to the “Guideline” pattern. The “Carbs-fat balance” pattern (OR 0.877, 95%CI 0.876–0.879) and the “High fat” pattern (OR 0.848, 95%CI 0.846-0.850) were significantly and negatively associated with the risk of gallstones.ConclusionsTo summarize, inappropriate timing of eating and energy sources are associated with gallstones. As a dietary prevention measure for gallstones, we suggest adhering to a regular eating routine and avoiding overly casual and frequent food consumption. If the main EO routine occurs in the morning, this time should not exceed 9:00 a.m. Additionally, reducing carbohydrate intake and maintaining a moderate level of fat intake is believed to contribute to a lower risk of gallstones.

Dietary bisphenols exposure as an influencing factor of body mass index

BackgroundOver the past three decades, there has been a significant increase in the prevalence and incidence of overweight and obesity worldwide. The obesogen hypothesis suggests that certain external agents may affect pathways related to fat accumulation and energy balance by stimulating fat cell differentiation and proliferation. Previous research has indicated that exposure to bisphenol A (BPA) and some of its analogues may influence fat accumulation by promoting the transformation of preadipocytes into adipocytes. This study aimed to assess the possible contribution of dietary bisphenol exposure to the odds of developing overweight and obesity in a sample of Spanish children according to sex.MethodsDietary and anthropometric data were collected from 179 controls and 124 cases schoolchildren aged 3–12 years. Dietary exposure to BPA and bisphenol S (BPS) was assessed using a food consumption frequency questionnaire. Logistic regression models were used to assess the influence of dietary exposure to bisphenols on overweight and obesity stratified by sex.ResultsFor females, cases had significantly higher exposure to BPA from meat and eggs compared to controls (median = 319.55, interquartile range (IQR) = 176.39–381.01 vs 231.79 (IQR) = 162.11–350.19, p-value = 0.046). Diet quality was higher for controls (6.21 (2.14) vs 4.80 (2.24) p < 0.001) among males independently of a high or low exposure to bisphenols. However, higher diet quality was observed for female controls with an high exposure of total bisphenols (6.79 (2.04) vs 5.33 (2.02) p = 0.031). Females exposed to high levels of BPA from meat and eggs had higher likelihood of being overweight and obese (adjusted Odds Ratio = 2.70, 95% confidence interval = 1.00 – 7.32). However, no consistent associations were found in males.ConclusionsHigh BPA levels from meat and eggs were positively associated with overweight and obesity in females. The dietary intake of BPA in the schoolchildren in the present study was much higher than the acceptable daily intake established by EFSA for the last year.

Evaluation of front-of-pack labeling’s impact on unhealthy food consumption in Israeli households

Abstract Background In 2020, Israel introduced front-of-pack labeling (FOPL), marking unhealthy foods high in sugar/salt/saturated fat in red and Mediterranean diet-conforming foods in green, aiming to facilitate healthy choices through clear nutrition information. Methods Two cross-sectional telephone surveys assessed food purchasing, red/green food consumption frequency, label exposure, and perceived impact before labeling (944 households, 2019) and 3 years post-implementation (500 households, 2023). Results Over 90% of respondents in 2023 reported seeing red labels on packages. Nearly 70% checked for red labels when shopping, vs. only 48% who examined the full Nutrition Facts panel on the back of the package. 60% reported preferring unlabeled alternatives within unhealthy categories. Although 50% reported that compared to the period before the labeling, they purchased fewer red-labeled products, a significant decrease in purchasing rates between timepoints was found only for 2 out of 11 unhealthy food categories-sugary drinks (which during 2022 were also taxed by sugar content) and salty snacks. At both timepoints, rates of purchasing and consumption frequency of unhealthy foods were higher among households with children, compared to other households. Multivariate analysis showed that having children under 18, lower education and bigger household size predicted a higher overall unhealthy consumption score. Red label checking was associated with better scores. Conclusions FOPL raised awareness and shows potential for reducing unhealthy consumption, especially when combined with policies like sugar taxation. Their impact on reducing purchases of nutritionally valueless foods (snacks/sugary drinks) is highly valuable. However, red-labeled food consumption remained high among households with children, a strong predictor of higher unhealthy consumption scores. Continued label promotion, child-targeted interventions, and product reformulation incentives are recommended. Key messages • FOPL shows potential of enhancing healthy choices especially when combined with supportive policies. • Results regarding households with children highlight the need for continued promotion, child-targeted interventions, and product reformulation incentives for impacting long-term habits.

Compliance of eating model of individuals with metabolic syndrome with Bulgarian dietary guidelines

Abstract Background The incidence of metabolic syndrome progressively increases among the urban population of Europe. About 1/3 of the Bulgarian adults have metabolic syndrome. Changing the dietary pattern can be a modern approach to control it. The aim of the study is to investigate the eating model of people with metabolic syndrome according to the Bulgarian dietary guidelines. Methods Two hundred individuals with metabolic syndrome aged 54.6±10.5 y. were randomly selected from general practitioners’ practices in Pleven region, Bulgaria. A Food Frequency Questionnaire method was applied to assess the eating pattern of the respondents. The frequency of food consumption of different foods was compared with the dietary guidelines for the Bulgarian population over 18 years of age. Data were processed with IBM SPSS v. 25. Results Grain consumption met the recommendations in almost all respondents. Only 29% consumed fresh fruits and 42% had intake of milk and milk products according to the requirements. Women ate more fresh vegetables and fruits and dairy products than men (p = 0,032). Risk meat consumption, 2-4 times a week, was found: men preferring more red meat (45%) and women - chicken and poultry (56%). Fish consumption met recommendation (once a week) in only 14.7% of the respondents. The food intake of eggs, vegetables, legumes and nuts were low. The preferred oils were sunflower and olive (once a day by 86% and 15% respectively), and butter (21% - 2-4 times a week). The intake of table salt corresponds to the recommendations in two thirds of the participants. One third consumed confectionery every day. Half did not drink alcohol, but 16% used concentrates once a day. Conclusions Foods that increase the nutritional risk for the development of metabolic syndrome and type 2 diabetes - high consumption of confectionery and red meat, low consumption of vegetables, fish and legumes were found. Unbalanced eating model requires new public initiatives to prevent metabolic syndrome. Key messages • Men with metabolic syndrome have a higher consumption of unhealthy foods than women. • Modern Bulgarian dietary guidelines are an important tool for prevention of metabolic syndrome.

Do shift-working nurses’ work-life quality relate to their physical health and diet quality?

Abstract Background Shift work negatively affects work-related quality of life and this situation causes significant labour force losses and decreased productivity in the society, especially health problems in nurses. This study was conducted to determine the relationship between work-related quality of life, physical health level and nutritional behaviours of nurses working in shifts. Methods This descriptive and relationship-seeking study was conducted with 312 nurses selected by quota sampling in Istanbul. Data were collected between December 2022 to July 2023 using the The Professional Quality of Life Scale (ProQOL), Physical Health Questionnaire and Food Consumption Frequency Questionnaire. Descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation tests were conducted on IBM SPSS 25.0. BeBIS 7.1 software were used for calculation diet index. Results Compassion Satisfaction (CS), Burnout (B) and Compassion Fatigue (CF) scores of nurses was examined, a relationship was found between CS score and B score (r=-0.39 p &amp;lt; 0.05) and between B score and CF score (r = 0.58 p &amp;lt; 0.05). CS score correlated with Cardiovascular Risk Level score (r=-0.15 p &amp;lt; 0.05) and diet index score (r = 0.15 p &amp;lt; 0.05). B score correlated with Gastrointestinal Risk Level score (r = 0.27 p &amp;lt; 0.05) and Cardiovascular Risk Level score (r = 0.38 p &amp;lt; 0.05). There was a correlation between the score of CF and Gastrointestinal Risk Level score (r = 0.25 p &amp;lt; 0.05) and Cardiovascular Risk Level score (r = 0.31 p &amp;lt; 0.05). Daily energy, fibre, vitamin B1 and C, folate, calcium and magnesium intakes of nurses were lower than the recommended. Conclusions Research results support that the gastrointestinal and cardiovascular systems have a direct relationship with stress and emotional states. In the policies to be developed within the scope of occupational health nursing practices, it is recommended to carry out studies to improve the physical health and nutritional behaviours of nurses in order to improve their work-related quality of life. Key messages • Nurses are a risky occupational group in terms of burnout. Protection studies should be prioritised to prevent burnout. • Gastrointestinal and cardiovascular system complaints of nurses should be paid special attention during recruitment and periodic examinations.

Differences in perspectives on sustainability attributes of dietary protein sources between reduced animal-based dieters and nondieters

The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals envision a sustainable future that includes a shift in food consumption, aiming to reduce anthropogenic environmental impacts. Protein sources are crucial in sustainable diets because of their high environmental influence. Although consumers play a pivotal role in driving the shift towards more sustainable food consumption patterns, research on the perceptions of specific dietary groups regarding protein sources is limited. In this study, the perceived sustainability attributes of eight common protein sources between reduced animal-based dieters (RABs) and nondieters (NDs) were evaluated. Using a cross-sectional survey, we measured demographic data, food consumption frequency, perceived healthiness, and environmental friendliness. We performed conjoint analysis on the importance of the protein sources’ sustainability attributes (nutritional score, ecological score, price, product category). In total, 294 RABs and 247 NDs participated. The majority of the sample consisted of highly educated, childless women aged 18–39 years with high incomes, residing in cities, and responsible for food in their households. The presence of a nutritional score had a positive effect on both consumer groups’ perceptions of product sustainability, whereas the presence of an ecological score negatively affected consumer preferences for more sustainable products. The perceptions of the sustainability of protein sources varied significantly between RABs and NDs. Overall, RABs underestimated the healthiness of animal-based products, whereas NDs underestimated the environmental impact of protein sources. Among the animal-based protein sources, eggs and fish were seen as the most sustainable, with significantly higher means for NDs (p < 0.001). Among the sustainability attributes, plant-based foods and nutritional scores had a significant positive effect on both groups’ choices. For RABs, all animal-based protein sources had a significant negative effect on food choice. These results support the assumption that nutritional scores can improve the nutritional quality of food choices, whereas ecological scores can reduce the environmental impact of food choices. These findings underscore the need for tailored communication strategies and interventions to promote sustainable food choices among diverse dietary groups.

Healthy eating behaviors and food consumption frequencies of retail workers.

Retail workers comprise millions of people, but little is known about their eating behaviors and food consumption patterns. To examine the healthy eating behaviors and food consumption frequencies of retail workers in shopping malls. The sample of this descriptive study consisted of 385 retail employees working in ready-made garment stores of shopping malls in Istanbul (42% of those eligible). A descriptive information form, the nutrition subscale of the Health-promoting Lifestyle Profile (HPLP), and the Food Consumption Frequency Survey were used as data collection tools. It was determined that more than half of the participants skipped breakfast and other meals and consumed fast food and packaged and acidic drinks five to six days a week. The mean score of the participants on the HPLP-nutrition subscale was determined to be 11.79±3.29. The retail workers in shopping malls were found to have insufficient healthy eating behaviors, a low frequency of healthy food consumption, and a high level of fast-food consumption. Maintaining healthy eating habits is crucial for the health of employees. It is necessary for workplaces to take steps to help their employees become aware of and practice healthy eating. Workplaces should also be encouraged to provide healthy food options for their employees.

Influence of multigenerational and living-alone households on high fat, sugar or sodium (HFSS) food consumption pattern in aging population

ObjectivesTo investigate the correlation between household composition and consumption of different groups of high fat, sugar or sodium (HFSS) among older persons in Thailand. Study DesignThis study used cross-sectional data from the 2021 population-based survey called the Health Behavior of Population Survey. MethodsData from this study were drawn from 39,384 sampled Thai older persons age 60 years or over. A food frequency questionnaire was used to collect information about frequency of HFSS food consumption, household composition, and socio-demographic characteristics. Binary logistic regression was performed to investigate correlations between household composition and food consumption. ResultsMore than three in five older Thais lived in a multigenerational home. The probabilities of consuming high-fat food, fast food, and snacks among older persons who lived with working-age person(s) and child(ren)/adolescents were much higher than for those living alone. Older persons who lived alone had the highest probability of consuming instant food, compared with other types of household composition. Participants who lived with child(ren)/adolescents only or with working-age person(s) only (p≤0.01) and child(ren)/adolescents only (p≤0.001) were more likely to consume sugar-sweetened beverages (SSB). ConclusionsThe findings point to life course interventions to discourage HFSS consumption across generations. Social interventions and public policy aiming at increasing intergenerational interactions could be beneficial for healthier diets for not only older persons but also across generations.

A paired-match study: Equine athletes’ nutritional habits, anthropometric measurements, and postures

Background and Purpose: The Mediterranean diet-MeD provides beneficial nutrients that improve athletes’ health. Posture is important for the performance of equine athletes-EA. This study aimed to determine adherence to the MeD, anthropometric measurements, and postures of EA. Methods: There were two study groups, EA(n:121) and non-athletes(n:121). The Mediterranean Diet Quality Index, the Mediterranean Diet Adherence Screener, the Food Frequency Questionnaire, the New York Posture Analyses-NYPA, an electronic scale, and a non-stretch tape were used. Results: EA’s MeD-characterized food consumption (vegetables, fruits, fish) frequencies were more compatible with recommendations(p

HUBUNGAN KONSUMSI MAKANAN DENGAN STATUS GIZI ANAK USIA SEKOLAH SD 3 MUHAMMADIYAH PALEMBANG

Food is a type of food that is very well known and commonly consumed by the public, including school children. Data (WHO) on the nutritional status of children in the world with a prevalence of emaciation of around 13.9%, obesity of &gt;340 million people. Riskesdas in 2018 for children aged 5-12 years based on the BMI/U index with a thin nutritional status of 6.8% and an obesity nutritional status of 9.2%. Riskesdas for South Sumatra Province in 2018, the prevalence of nutritional status of children aged 5-12 years was based on the BMI/U index with the nutritional status of thin children at 6.26% and the nutritional status for obesity at 9.08%. Meanwhile, based on Palembang City data, the BMI/U index for the nutritional status of thin children is 6.88% and the nutritional status of obese children is 11.59%. Snacks that are not guaranteed to be clean can cause digestive disorders and poisoning. To determine the relationship between food consumption and the nutritional status of school-aged children. His research used a descriptive analytical design with a cross-sectional approach. The number of research respondents was 169 students. The research instrument used was a Semi Quantitative Form-FFQ questionnaire with interview and questionnaire methods taken at one time. The research carried out was located at SD 3 Muhammadiyah Palembang in March 2024. The variables explained included the characteristics of the respondents (age, parents' education, parents' occupation and nutritional status of the respondents). The research data used for statistical tests was the Spearman Correlation analysis test. Research Results: There is a relationship between food consumption and the nutritional status of school-aged children (p value 0.000 &lt; 0.05). The higher the frequency of food consumption, the risk of obesity in school-aged children will increase. Keywords : School age children, Food consumption, Nutrional Status Bibliography : 11 (2020-2023).

Identification and analysis of microplastics in para-tumor and tumor of human prostate

While microplastics are widely found in various human organs and tissues, the relationship between microplastics and human health, especially prostate health, remains unclear. This study aims to identify and quantify the properties, types, and abundance of microplastics in paired para-tumor and tumor tissues of human prostate. Additionally, the potential correlation between microplastics abundance and prostate cancer are investigated. Paired para-tumor and tumor samples of the prostate were collected from 22 patients who underwent robot-assisted radical prostatectomy. A combination of laser direct infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry was utilized to analyse the properties, type and abundance of microplastics. Correlations between microplastics abundance, demographic characteristics and clinical features of patients were also examined. Laser direct infrared analysis revealed the presence of microplastics, including polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyvinyl chloride, in both para-tumor and tumor tissues of human prostate. However, polystyrene was exclusively detected in tumor tissues. The particle size distribution in the prostate tissue mainly ranged from 20 to 100μm. Approximately 31.58% of para-tumor samples exhibited sizes between 20 and 30μm, while 35.21% of tumor samples displayed sizes between 50 and 100μm. The shapes of these microplastics varied considerably with irregular forms being predominant. Additionally, microplastics were detected by pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry in 20 paired prostate tissues. The mean abundance of microplastics was found to be 181.0μg/g and 290.3μg/g in para-tumor and tumor of human prostate samples, respectively. Among the 11 target types microplastics polymers, only polystyrene, polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyvinyl chloride were detected. Notably, polystyrene, polyethylene, and polyvinyl chloride, except for polypropylene, demonstrated significantly higher abundance in tumor tissues compared to their respective paired para-tumor. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed between polystyrene abundance in the tumor samples of human prostate and frequency of take-out food consumption. This research provides both qualitative and quantitative evidence of the microplastics presence as well as their properties, types, and abundance in paired para-tumor and tumor samples of human prostate. Correlations between microplastics abundance, demographics, and clinical characteristics of patients need to be further validated in future studies with a larger sample size. This work was supported by the National Key Research and Development Program of China (2022YFC2702600) and the National Natural Science Foundation of China (Grant No. 82071698, No. 82101676, and No. 82271630).

Evaluating Weight Status, Snacking Patterns, and Physical Activity Levels Among Primary Schoolchildren in Relizane, Algeria: A Comprehensive Analysis.

This study aimed to comprehensively assess the weight status, snack consumption, and physical activity levels among primary schoolchildren, with a focus on both rural and urban areas. This cross-sectional study surveyed 557 primary schoolchildren aged 6 to 12 years, covering general identification (age, gender), anthropometric measurements (body weight, height, waist, and hip circumference), food patterns (frequency of food consumption), and sports activities. Using CDC body mass index thresholds, we identified a 25% prevalence of obesity and over 17% for overweight, revealing a significant urban-rural disparity. In urban areas, boys had a higher obesity rate (32.58%), while girls had a higher overweight rate (15%). Conversely, in rural regions, girls had a higher obesity rate (24.82%), and boys had a higher overweight rate (22.3%). Dietary analysis showed that over 86% consumed three daily meals, but distinctions in snack choices, such as chips, wafers, and biscuits, were noted between urban and rural areas. Additionally, urban schoolchildren were more likely to participate in sports activities compared to their rural counterparts, with rates of 70.22% versus 55.08%, respectively. Findings provide valuable insights into the health and food behaviors of primary schoolchildren and can inform interventions and strategies to promote healthier lifestyles.

Orthorexia Nervosa and Physical Activity: Impact on Food Choices and Quality of Life In Healthcare Workers

Objective: Orthorexia Nervosa (ON) which is formed by the combination of many factors such as biological, psychological and social factors, reduce the quality of life by affecting food choices. To evaluate the relationship between ON and physical activity status with food selection and quality of life among healthcare personnel at Balıkesir State Hospital in Türkiye. Methods: Sociodemographic characteristics and nutritional status, “ Orthorexia Nervosa Rating Scale (ORTO-15 Scale),” “International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ)”, “Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-27)”, “Food Consumption Frequency (FFQ)”, and “3-Day Food Consumption Record Form (2 weekdays-1 weekend day)” administered in person to 400 participants. Results: The participants exhibited signs of orthorexia in 80.2% of cases. Other healthcare professionals were most active group (22.5%), while doctors were most inactive (29.7%). Healthcare workers with orthorexic tendencies frequently consumed water, beverages, and dairy products, whereas individuals with typical eating habits commonly consumed fats. Very active health workers most frequently consume fats, inactive nurses and doctors consume water and beverages, and inactive health workers consume milk. Physical activity status affects quality of life, and as “IPAQ Total” scores increased, “General Health Status”, “Physical Health” and “Environment” sub-factor scores of WHOQOL-27 increased (p

Higher sweet beverage consumption was associated with increased gestational weight gain and birth weight: A Chinese cohort study

Diet during pregnancy is crucial to maternal metabolism and fetal development, so exploring the most potent food risk factor could improve maternal and child health. In this study, we investigated the diet and lifestyle of 833 healthy pregnant women in the second trimester from November 2020 to August 2021. Based on the Tianjin Antenatal Care System in China, we followed up with these women and recorded their gestational weight gain (GWG) and newborn birth weight. We conducted a dietary survey through FFQ based on the food groups recommended by the Chinese Dietary Guidelines and included common ultra-processed foods. We collected 219 semi-quantitative FFQs and 614 self-reported FFQs for analysis. According to the consumption frequency of 12 food groups, 4 dietary patterns were extracted by principal component analysis. We analyzed the associations of food energy, consumption frequency, and dietary patterns with GWG and birth weight, especially GWG in the first and second trimesters (f-GWG). The results showed that f-GWG was positively correlated with food energy. Beverage consumption was associated with f-GWG (r = 0.288, P = .026) in obese pregnant women. A dietary pattern that favors high consumption of ultra-processed foods (fried foods, baked desserts, and sweet beverages) was associated with increased GWGs. Non-obesity women with high consumption of baked desserts and sweet beverages had higher GWGs (P < .05). After adjusting for confounding factors (including total energy, physical activity, and sleep quality), only sweet beverage consumption was associated with f-GWG (β 0.498, 95%CI 0.153-0.843) and birth weight (β 0.124, 95%CI 0.009-0.240). Sweet beverage consumption is a key adjustable risk factor for prenatal care.

Effects of Migration on Nutritional Habits: From Turkey to Germany.

Dietary habits are influenced by environmental factors. Among these environmental factors are the place of residence, cultural characteristics, food accessibility, and economic status, which can all contribute to changes in the dietary pattern. Migration is another factor that can influence changes in the aspects mentioned above. We aimed to assess the dietary habits of individuals who have migrated from Turkey to Germany in comparison to those living in Turkey. In this descriptive and cross-sectional study, 254 individuals were enrolled with 102 individuals in Germany and 152 individuals in Turkey between April 2022 and July 2023. The data collection tools included Socio-demographic Characteristics Forms, Dietary Habits and Health Status Forms, and Food Consumption Frequency Forms. The data was collected online via Google Forms. There were statistically significant differences in the consumption frequency of processed meats, meat and poultry, sweetened beverages, sugar, desserts and pastries, vegetables, fruits, eggs and grains, olive oil, sunflower oil, hazelnut oil, grains, dairy products, coffee, starch, and carbonated beverages between the two groups (P<0.05). Statistically significant differences were not found in terms of butter and tea consumption frequency. Overall, the study results have revealed significant differences in dietary habits between Turks living in Germany and those living in Turkey. The most noteworthy dimension of these differences is that individuals living in Turkey exhibit a stronger adherence to the Mediterranean dietary pattern, while those living in Germany tend to follow a Western dietary pattern.

Association of Dietary Patterns, Suspected Sarcopenia, and Frailty Syndrome among Older Adults in Poland-A Cross-Sectional Study.

The association of sarcopenia and frailty syndrome with dietary patterns is not yet well recognized. The aim of the study was to evaluate the association among dietary patterns, suspected sarcopenia, and frailty syndrome among older people in Poland. The study was conducted in 2022 and 2023 among people aged 55 and older. The sample was chosen arbitrarily. The following questionnaires were used in the study: the KomPAN (assessment of frequency of food intake and sociodemographic characteristics), the SARC-F (assessment of risk of sarcopenia), and the EFS (diagnosis of frailty syndrome). To confirm the suspicion of sarcopenia, muscle strength was assessed using the HGS and FTSST, and physical fitness was assessed using the GST. Based on the frequency of food consumption, 11 DPs (factors) were selected using PCA analysis. SARC-F, HGS, FTSST, and GST results were used to identify homogeneous groups (clusters) using cluster analysis, a k-means method. Two clusters were identified: cluster 1 (the non-sarcopenic cluster, or nSC) and cluster 2 (the sarcopenic cluster, or SC). Associations between variables were assessed using logistic regression. Suspected sarcopenia was found in 32.0% of respondents, more in men than women, and more among those either over 75 or 65 and under. EFS results showed that the risk (22.1%) or presence of frailty syndrome (23.8%) was more common in men than women and more common in those aged 75 and older than in other age groups. Male gender; older age; and unfavorable dietary patterns, i.e., consumption of white bread and bakery products, white rice and pasta, butter, and potatoes (factor 1) and cheese, cured meat, smoked sausages, and hot dogs (factor 9), increased the likelihood of sarcopenia and frailty syndrome, while the pattern associated with fruit and water consumption (factor 7) had the opposite effect. Confirmation of the importance of dietary patterns in the etiology and pathogenesis of sarcopenia and frailty syndrome should be documented in prospective cohort studies.

The Relationship Between Perceived Body Image, Frequency of Fast Food Consumption, and Nutritional Status

The Relationship Between Perceived Body Image, Frequency of Fast Food Consumption, and Nutritional Status

Perceptions of processed foods as unhealthy: Heuristic strength, prevalence, and potential implications for the protein shift

Plant-based analogues (PBAs) for meat and dairy are typically categorised as ultra-processed foods. However, current evidence that PBA consumption negatively impacts health is controversial. As such, these products may be inappropriately negatively coloured by the “processed foods are unhealthy” heuristic. We investigated the strength of this heuristic among Swedish consumers and explored its impact on perceived healthiness within different food categories (meat, dairy, seafood, vegetables/legumes, and PBAs). In an online experiment, participants (N=563) rated the healthiness and level of processing of 24 food products (presented as images), completed the food technology neophobia (FTN) scale, and reported consumption frequency of different foods. The results indicated that this heuristic, measured as Pearson's r between perceived healthiness and level of processing, was prevalent and robust (posterior mean = -0.58, probability of association>99 %) as well as stronger among women and individuals with higher FTN. Moreover, the impact of the heuristic differed across food categories: healthiness ratings for vegetable/legume and seafood products perceived as processed were more negatively impacted compared to those for meat products (probability of association>99 %). The potential implications of this for the protein shift and encouraging substituting red meat with products based on raw materials associated with health (i.e., plants and seafood) are discussed.

The influence of exercise and BMI on food choices during pregnancy

BackgroundExercise is linked to health-conscious behaviors, such as healthy eating, through psychophysiological pathways that include improvements in executive functioning. The influence of exercise while pregnant on healthy eating is currently unknown. PurposeTo determine if there are differences in food choices of women who exercised (EX) or not (CON) during pregnancy, and if this differed by pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI; normal weight, NW; overweight/obese, OWOB). MethodsThis study was a secondary analysis to examine the food frequency questionnaires (FFQs) of pregnant women randomized to 150 min/wk of EX (n = 72) or CON (n = 16). Maternal descriptors and pre-pregnancy BMI were collected at enrollment (≤16 weeks gestation). At enrollment and at 36 weeks gestation, women reported the frequency of specific food consumption across a range of food groups based on a Likert-scale ranging from 1-rarely or never eat the food to 5- eat the food more than once/day. ResultsOWOB EX increased consumption of nutrient-dense foods from enrollment to 36 weeks pregnancy and these results were not seen in OWOB CON and NW CON groups. Since FFQ is self-reported and captures a broad scope of habitual diet, it is important for future research in this area. ConclusionOverall, data in our study suggests that OWOB women who start exercising during pregnancy also improve their diet. Thus, future research should investigate how exercise may influence changes in nutrient intake during pregnancy.

Plant-based fish analogues vs. fish: Assessment of consumer perception, acceptance, and attitudes

Plant-based fish is developed to mimic the taste, texture, and appearance of fish. Despite being the fastest-growing segment in plant-based analogues sales, it remains a niche product due to several hindrances, including sensory and nutritional issues. This study assessed consumer perception, attitudes and acceptance drivers of plant-based canned tuna involving 165 consumers who evaluated for liking and described through the Check-All-That-Apply method five plant-based and three animal-based samples. Consumers’ food neophobia level, food related lifestyles and food frequency consumption of a series of plant-based and animal-based products were investigated as potential explanatory variables in drivers of acceptance. Generalised linear models showed that plant-based samples scored very low (<40 VAS score), while animal-based products were well accepted (63.6 – 75.2). Principal Coordinate Analysis revealed that pink colour, tuna/fish flavour, and dryness characterised tuna samples and contributed positively to liking, while unappealing appearance, off-flavour, legume/vegetable flavour, bitterness, gelatinous and gumminess, characterised plant-based samples and contributed negatively to liking. Agglomerative hierarchical analysis identified two consumer clusters differing in liking for plant-based fish analogues. One cluster (27 % of consumers) showed significantly higher liking scores for all plant-based samples, a higher consumption of plant-based analogues and seemed more careful when buying food, both regarding its nutritional composition and its naturalness than the other cluster. This study suggests that the exploitation of plant-based ingredients (textured soy, pea and wheat proteins) affect all sensory dimensions of plant-based canned tuna and highlights the importance of sensory optimisation in the development of plant-based alternatives to meet consumer preferences.