Consumption Of Fresh Vegetables Research Articles

Epidemiological characteristics of early-onset colorectal cancer: a prospective cohort study from a single center

Objective: To explore the differences in distribution of colorectal cancer-related risk factors between patients with early-onset colorectal cancer (EOCRC) and those with late-onset colorectal cancer (LOCRC) in a Chinese cohort, and to provide reference and guidance for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of EOCRC. Methods: Using data from the National Colorectal Cancer Cohort study cohort, 5377 patients with newly diagnosed colorectal cancer (CRC) attending the Department of Colorectal Surgery and Oncology of the Second Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine from June 2018 to February 2023 were included in the study cohort. Questionnaires capturing epidemiological features, including lifestyle and dietary habits, were administered. The patients were divided into two groups, the cut-off age being 50 years. Those aged ≥50 years were defined as having LOCRC and those aged <50 years as having EOCRC. Wilcoxon (continuous variates) or χ2 tests (categorical variates) were performed to compare differences in epidemiological features. Results: A total of 3799 people who had completed the questionnaire were included in this study, 491 of whom had EOCRC and 3308 LOCRC. The response rate to the questionnaire was 70.7%. The median ages of patients in the EOCRC and LOCRC groups were 43 and 66 years, respectively. There was a higher proportion of female patients (48.5% [253/491] vs. 35.8% [1184/3308], χ2=28.8, P<0.001) in the EOCRC than the LOCRC group. Patients with EOCRC and lower body mass index (medium 22.1 kg/m2 vs. 22.9 kg/m2, W=744 793, P=0.005) and lower proportion of abdominal obesity (87.2% [428/491] vs. 93.8% [3103/3308], χ2=38.3, P<0.001). Patients with EORC significantly less commonly reported a history of hypertension (5.9% [29/491] vs. 41.6% [1375/3308], χ2=231.8, P<0.001), diabetes (1.4% [7/491] vs. 14.4% [476/3308], χ2=63.6, P<0.001) and cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases (0.8% [4/491] vs. 7.3% [241/3308], χ2=28.6, P<0.001). However, the proportion of patients with a family history of CRC was significantly higher (P<0.05) in the EOCRC group (10.2% [50/491] vs. 6.9% [227/3 308], χ2=6.5, P=0.010]. In terms of lifestyle, patients with EOCRC had shorter sleep duration (median: 8.0 hours vs. 8.5 hours, W=578 989, P<0.001), and were less likely to participate in physical exercise (29.5% [145/491] vs. 38.7% [1281/3308] χ2=15.0, P<0.001) or engage in physical work (65.2% [320/491] vs. 74.1% [2450/3308], χ2=16.7, P<0.001). Meanwhile, in the EOCRC group a lower percentage of patients were smokers (29.3% [144/491] vs. 42.7% [1411/3308], χ2=46.9,P<0.001) and they smoked less (median 17.6 pack/year vs. 30.0 pack/year,W=55 850,P<0.001). Fewer patients in the EOCRC group habitually drank alcohol (21.0% [103/491] vs. 38.0% [1257/3308], χ2=57.5, P<0.001) or tea (17.5% [86/491] vs. 28.7% [948/3308], χ2=26.2, P<0.001) than in the LOCRC group. Compared with the LOCRC group, patients with EOCRC had a higher frequency of intake of fresh meat, fresh fruit, eggs, and dairy products and a lower frequency of intake of preserved meat and pickled vegetables; these differences are statistically significant (all P<0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in consumption of fresh vegetables or a high-sugar diet between the two groups (both P>0.05). Conclusions: This study highlights disparities in adverse lifestyle and dietary habits between patients in China with EOCRC versus LOCRC.

Modifiable and Non-Modifiable Factors Associated with Gastric Cancer

Numerous studies have investigated the associations between dietary components, behavioral patterns, and susceptibility to gastric cancer (GC). Diet and lifestyle cover a spectrum of both protective and harmful factors associated with GC. Additionally, non-modifiable factors such as age, gender, blood type, family history, and genetic predispositions may influence GC development. This review aims to explore the interplay between modifiable and non-modifiable factors, along with dietary habits and lifestyle practices, in relation to GC risk and the potential underlying mechanisms. We have synthesized the primary findings of observational studies (case-control and cohort), systematic reviews, and meta-analyses pertaining to preventive and deleterious factors affecting the incidence of gastric cancer. A literature search was conducted on Google Scholar, MEDLINE (PubMed), ScienceDirect, and Scopus for articles published in English from 2001 to 2024. The main search terms included body weight and body fat; diet; fruits and vegetables; meats and processed meats; fried and fast foods; milk and dairy products; salty foods; food and dietary patterns; fat and sweets intake; alcohol consumption; smoking; physical activity; age; sex; family history; blood type; genetics; and medication, and the risk of gastric cancer. Unhealthy dietary patterns, consumption of fried and fast foods, salty foods, alcohol, and smoking have been associated with an increased risk of GC. Non-modifiable factors such as advanced age, male sex, family history, genetics, and blood type A were linked to an elevated risk of GC. Conversely, physical activity and high consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables may prevent GC occurrence due to the presence of antioxidants, fiber, and polyphenols. While many studies have demonstrated that dietary patterns loaded with red and processed meats were associated with a high risk of GC, others have yielded inconclusive results. Controversial findings regarding the relationship between body weight and body fat, medications, milk and dairy products, and fat and sweets consumption with the risk of GC were also observed. Adequate diet modification and addressing preventable factors may play a pivotal role in reducing the incidence of gastric cancer.

Eating Behaviors and Physical Activity versus the Big Five Personality Traits in Women with a Hereditary Predisposition to Breast or Ovarian Cancer.

The Big Five personality traits-neuroticism, extroversion, openness to experience, agreeableness, and conscientiousness-represent continuous, individual features that affect a number of vital health aspects, including morbidity, self-reported health status, or lifestyle. The aim of this study was to analyze the relationship between the eating behaviors and engagement in physical activity of women with a hereditary predisposition to breast or ovarian cancer and the Big Five personality traits. A total of 357 women, participants of 'The National Program for Families With Genetic/Familial High Risk for Cancer', were included in the study. In the healthy group, the following statistically significant predictors were found in variables: agreeableness-meal frequency (β = 0.151; p = 0.030); neuroticism-consumption of fruits and vegetables (β = -0.177; p = 0.016) and cereal products (β = -0.223; p = 0.002); openness to experience-consumption of plant-based fats (β = 0.141; p = 0.034) and physical activity (β = 0.153; p = 0.021). In the cancer group, the frequency of dairy consumption (β = 0.286; p = 0.003) and physical activity (β = 0.370; p = 0.000) were found to be statistically significant predictors for the openness to experience variable. Neuroticism is associated with less frequent consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as cereal products. Openness to experience was more often linked with a higher frequency of dairy consumption, plant-based fats, and physical activity. Women with breast or ovarian cancer and a higher openness to experience consumed dairy and engaged in physical activity more often than their peers with the remaining personality traits.

Association of polymorphic loci of the GSS gene with the risk of acute biliary pancreatitis

Aim. To investigate the role of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs13041792, rs1801310, and rs6088660 in the GSS gene and environmental factors in the development of acute biliary pancreatitis (ABP) and its complications.Materials and methods. The material for the study was blood samples obtained from 84 patients with ABP and 573 healthy individuals. Both groups were comparable in terms of gender and age. To diagnose ABP, we used the clinical guidelines recommended by the working group of the Russian Society of Surgeons. DNA was isolated by phenol / chloroform extraction. Multiplex genotyping of SNPs was performed by the iPLEX assay on the MALDITOF MassARRAY-4 genetic analyzer. Statistical data processing was performed using Statistica 10 and SNPStats software.Results. We found that insufficient consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits increased the probability of ABP in carriers of genotypes G/A-A/A at rs1801310 in GSS (р = 0.02). The analysis revealed the association of the T allele at rs6088660 with the odds for developing acute pancreatitis (р = 0.007) and digestive fistulas (р = 0.02). A high probability of death was associated with rs1801310 (G/A genotype, р = 0.002) and rs6088660 (C/T genotype, р = 0.01) in the GSS gene.Conclusion. SNPs rs6088660 and rs1801310 in the GSS gene can be used to predict the course of ABP.

Juice drinks based on vegetable raw materials

Numerous scientific studies have repeatedly proved the importance of consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits for human health. Natural juices from vegetables and fruits are a concentrated form of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Vegetable juices help absorb nutrients at a high rate. When consuming vegetables in the form of juice, β-carotene is absorbed faster, which contributes to the normal formation of the skin and strengthening of the mucous membranes. The purpose of the research is to develop a technology for the production of juice drinks based on vegetable raw materials with a balanced content of nutrients and low calorie content. The article presents data on the development of the technology of juice drinks based on fruit and vegetable raw materials using apple juice, pumpkin and carrot puree. The choice of blending components for creating biologically valuable drinks is substantiated: the basis is pumpkin puree; auxiliary – unclarified apple juice; biologically valuable additive – carrot puree. It has been experimentally investigated that the prescribed amount of apple juice in a blend with pumpkin and carrot should be at least 2.5 parts of the blend. The optimal content of carrot puree in a pumpkin-apple drink has been determined – no more than 10 %. The drink had a pleasant sweet pumpkin taste, a fruity aroma with a hint of orange apple and evenly distributed pulp. Various options for recipe ratios of food components for creating a pumpkin-apple-carrot drink with pulp according to organoleptic evaluation were studied. A technological scheme for the production of pumpkin-based juice with the addition of apple juice and carrot puree has been developed. Organoleptic evaluation and sensory analysis of experimental drinks were carried out. It was found that the ratio of components in mixed drinks against the background of the main one significantly affects the organoleptic indicators of the finished product.

Anticipatory surveillance for detection of Escherichia coli from fresh fruits and vegetables using DuPont BAX System

Escherichia coli is a foodborne pathogen that causes severe illnesses in humans worldwide. Cows are a source of E. coli O157:H7, and raw products contaminated with cattle faeces are typical carriers of the pathogen. The consumption of unhygienic fresh fruits and vegetables provides a potential risk factor for microbial contamination-related infections. In this context, the present work was performed to investigate the prevalence rate of E. coli in fresh fruits and vegetables that were commonly distributed and consumed in Zakho City, Iraq. In addition, the present work also aimed to detect the incidence rate of pathogenic strain E. coli O157:H7, thereafter suggesting the best and most efficient sanitiser for the decontamination of fruits and vegetables. A total of 172 samples, comprising various types of fruits and vegetables, were randomly collected for this cross-sectional study from retail markets in Zakho City. A number of laboratory tests, including DuPont BAX System PCR, microbiological, and biochemical-based techniques were performed for the isolation and identification of E. coli microbial contamination. Out of the 172 samples collected, 32 (18.6%) tested positive for E. coli using traditional enrichment and selective media. The DuPont BAX system technique confirmed that all isolates were E. coli, and none of the isolates were identified as E. coli O157:H7 strain. Furthermore, peracetic acid was found to be a more effective sanitiser than aqueous chlorine for cleaning leafy green vegetables. Despite the absence of the pathogenic strain E. coli O157:H7, the present work highlighted the potential health risk to the community due to E. coli contamination of leafy green vegetables.

Cumulative risk assessment of dietary exposure of the adult population in Serbia to pesticides that have chronic effects on the thyroid gland through fresh fruits and vegetables

In contrast to the traditional approach to risk assessment, which focuses on a single chemical, cumulative exposure and risk assessment considers the consequences of exposure to multiple chemical combinations. A cumulative risk assessment of dietary exposure of adult females and adult males to pesticides with chronic effects on the thyroid was conducted by estimation of the Total Margin of Exposure (MOET). Exposure to each active substance was estimated using a second-order Monte Carlo simulation. Input values for the simulation were based on over 2300 conventionally produced fruit and vegetable samples analysed from 2021 to 2023 and consumption data collected using the Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ) and 24h recall method. MOET values, for both populations assessed, did not exceed thresholds for regulatory consideration established by risk managers. Considering that MOETs values from consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables were relatively close to the threshold value, total exposure to the pesticides could likely reach risk-associated MOET levels, through the consumption of other food products that may be contaminated.

The Relationship between Nutrition and COVID-19 Symptoms among Nursing Faculty Students

The COVID-19 pandemic, declared a global health crisis by the WHO, has prompted significant shifts in lifestyle and health behaviors worldwide. This study investigates the relationship between dietary habits and manifestations of COVID-19 among nursing students in the Faculty of Nursing at the University of Babylon, employing a descriptive cross-sectional methodology. Drawing from a sample of 100 students, data was collected using a structured questionnaire encompassing demographic information, COVID-19 symptoms, and dietary patterns. Statistical analyses were conducted using SPSS V.23 and Excel 2016. Results indicated a predominantly female (61%) sample, with most participants being unmarried (64%). Common COVID-19 symptoms reported included loss of smell and taste (for one week), cough with secretions, high temperature, and shortness of breath. The study observed discrepancies in symptom presentation compared to previous research, highlighting variations in manifestations among populations. Notably, individuals who consumed vegetables demonstrated a lower risk of COVID-19 complications, suggesting a potential protective role of vegetable intake against the virus. However, no significant correlations were found between demographic factors and COVID-19 manifestations. Based on the findings, recommendations are proposed to promote healthier dietary practices among individuals, emphasizing the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables, eggs, and nutrient-rich foods to aid in COVID-19 recovery. Additionally, suggestions include regular meal consumption, hydration, and moderation of caffeine intake. In conclusion, this study underscores the importance of nutrition in mitigating the impact of COVID-19 and provides valuable insights into dietary behaviors among nursing students during the pandemic. Future research should explore longitudinal associations between diet and COVID-19 outcomes to inform public health interventions and preventive strategies effectively.

Consistency of the Initial and Updated Version of the Nutri-Score with Food-Based Dietary Guidelines: A French Perspective

BackgroundTo help consumers to make healthier food choices, 7 European countries have implemented the front-of-pack nutrition label Nutri-Score. The algorithm was updated in 2022–2023 by the Nutri-Score European scientific committee, based on the current scientific knowledge. ObjectivesThe aim of this study was to investigate the consistency of the newly internationally developed algorithm with the French food-based dietary guidelines (FBDG) and compare the respective performances of the initial and updated algorithm. MethodsThree complementary French food composition databases were used to access extensive coverage of the food supply in France (n = 46,752): the Oqali, OpenFoodFacts, and CIQUAL databases. Based on the French FBDG, a list of 41 criteria was defined by which the consistency between French FBDG and the Nutri-Score was assessed (eg, consumption of fresh vegetables is promoted in FBDG, thus the Nutri-Score should rate favorably such products). ResultsOf all criteria, the initial algorithm met 63% (26/41) of them, whereas the revised algorithm met 85% (35/41) of them. Improvements achieved by the updated version of the Nutri-Score in alignment with the FBDG were particularly observed for high-fat products (ie, fatty fish, nuts, and seeds), sweet products (ie, ice creams and sweet spreads), salty products (ie, savory snacks and salted nuts), dairy beverages, and beverages with artificial sweeteners. ConclusionsThe Nutri-Score’s updated nutrient profiling system appears to rate foods more consistently regarding the French dietary guidelines and improved the currently existing system. This work supports the implementation of the updated nutrient profiling system underlying Nutri-Score.

Vitamin C in dermatology and cosmetology: a review

Vitamin C is a very powerful water-soluble antioxidant with various potential benefits for patients with skin diseases. The chemically active form of vitamin C is L-ascorbic acid (LAA) and thus is used extensively in medical practices. Due to an active transport mechanism, the absorption of vitamin C in the gut is limited, thereby reducing the amount of drug absorbed orally despite a high dosage, which in turn reduces the bioavailability of vitamin C in the skin. Therefore, topical use of vitamin C is usually preferred in dermatology practice. The function of vitamin C is mostly linked to its electron-donating property. Several processes such as reduction of iron in the gastrointestinal tract, synthesis of carnitine, gene transcription, protection against reactive oxygen species (ROS), demethylation of DNA, Hydroxylation of transcription factors, tRNA, and ribosomal proteins, collagen, and hormonal synthesis are carried out due to the active participation of vitamin C in the body. Scurvy usually occurs due to inadequate consumption of vitamin C through a regular diet or inability to absorb the vitamin C in the body. 90% of ascorbic acid comes from fresh fruits and vegetable consumption, failure of which can lead to scurvy.

Burdens of stomach and esophageal cancer from 1990 to 2019 and projection to 2030 in China: Findings from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease Study.

Stomach and esophageal cancer exhibit high morbidity and mortality rate in China, resulting in substantial disease burdens. It is imperative to identify the temporal trends of stomach and esophageal cancer from 1990 to 2019 and project future trends until 2030, which can provide valuable information for planning effective management and prevention strategies. We collected and analysed data from the Global Burden of Disease (GBD) between 1990 and 2019, including incidence, mortality, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), age-standardised incidence rate (ASIR), mortality rate (ASMR) and DALYs rate. We also calculated and reported the proportion of mortality and DALYs attributable to risk factors by sex in China and different regions. The Bayesian age-period-cohort model was applied to project future trends until 2030. The new cases, deaths and DALYs of stomach and esophageal cancer increased from 1990 to 2019. However, the ASIR, ASMR and age-standardised DALYs rates for stomach and esophageal cancer all decreased during the same period. These changes may be related to risks, such as smoking and diet. Furthermore, we utilised the projection model to estimate that the ASIR and ASMR of stomach and esophageal cancer among females will likely follow steady downward trends, while the ASMR of stomach cancer among males is expected to exhibit a significant decline. However, the ASIR of stomach and esophageal cancer and the ASMR of esophageal cancer among males are projected to display slight upward trends until 2030. The analysis of stomach and esophageal cancer trends in China from 1990 to 2030 reveals a general decline. However, it is crucial to acknowledge the persistent high burden of both cancers in the country. Adopting healthy lifestyle practices, including the reduction of tobacco and alcohol intake, avoidance of moldy foods and increased consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables can contribute to mitigating the risk of stomach and esophageal cancer. Significantly, the formulation and implementation of well-founded and efficacious public health policies are imperative for alleviating the disease burden in China.

Influence of Ultrasound Parameters on Some Qualities of Frozen African Spinach

Consumption of fresh and healthy vegetables in our diets aids protection from chronic diseases in humans. This study determined the effects of ultrasound as a pre-treatment technique on vitamin C, beta-carotene contents, and the weight loss of frozen African spinach (Amaranthus hybridus), and thereafter compared with the control. All the samples except the control were subjected to the ultrasound effects before freezing at frequency, time, and power ranges of 40-120 kHz, 10-30 min, and 50-150 W respectively. Result obtained indicated that the maximum vitamin C (99.5%) was obtained from the sample stored for 5 days under the treatment condition of 40 kHz, 50 W, and 20 min. However, the same sample retained more vitamin C within 5-20 days’ storage, while the pre-treated sample at 80 kHz, 100 W, and 10 min retained the maximum (80.9%) at 25 days of storage. The sample under the treatment condition of 80 kHz, 100 W, and 20 min lost more vitamin C (67.6, 66.6, and 59.2%) between 15-25 storage days. While for the beta-carotene, the sample with the treatment condition of 40 kHz, 50 W, and 20 min before freezing had the highest retention (99.8%) when stored for 5 days, and the same sample retained more at 10, and 15 days than others (97.6, and 92.4%). All pre-treated samples retained more beta-carotene at 25 days of storage when compared to the control with the least retention between 15-25 days. Furthermore, the least obtained content from the pre-treated samples was 64.9%, that is, a sample treated at 80 kHz, 100 W, and 20 min. The result revealed that Amaranthus hybridus was best preserved in pre-treated Amaranthus hybridus leaves. The optimum quality response occurs at 80kHz and 50 W for 30 min. This gives a vitamin C content of 31.1 mg/100g and a Betacarotene content of 10.5 mg/g at 0.694 desirability.

Association of fresh vegetable and salt-preserved vegetable consumptions with estimated glomerular filtration rate

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the relationship between the consumption of fresh and salt-preserved vegetables and the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), which requires further research.MethodsFor this purpose, the data of those subjects who participated in the 2011–2012 and 2014 surveys of the Chinese Longitudinal Healthy Longevity Survey (CLHLS) and had biomarker data were selected. Fresh and salt-preserved vegetable consumptions were assessed at each wave. eGFR was assessed using the Chronic Kidney Disease Epidemiology Collaboration (CKD-EPI) equation based on plasma creatinine. Furthermore, a linear mixed model was used to evaluate associations between fresh/salt-preserved vegetables and eGFR.ResultsThe results indicated that the median baseline and follow-up eGFRs were 72.47 mL/min/1.73 m² and 70.26 mL/min/1.73 m², respectively. After applying adjusted linear mixed model analysis to the data, the results revealed that compared to almost daily intake, occasional consumption of fresh vegetables was associated with a lower eGFR (β=-2.23, 95% CI: -4.23, -0.23). Moreover, rare or no consumption of salt-preserved vegetables was associated with a higher eGFR (β = 1.87, 95% CI: 0.12, 3.63) compared to individuals who consumed salt-preserved vegetables daily.ConclusionFresh vegetable consumption was direct, whereas intake of salt-preserved vegetables was inversely associated with eGFR among the oldest subjects, supporting the potential benefits of diet-rich fresh vegetables for improving eGFR.

European consumers' preferences for fresh fruit and vegetables – A cross-country analysis

Although fresh fruit and vegetables are essential for a balanced diet, their per capita consumption in Europe is below the recommended minimum intake. This study investigates 14 product attributes of fresh fruit and vegetables in a European cross-country analysis. Based on an online survey conducted in France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, and Norway (n = 3093), an object-case Best-Worst Scaling approach was applied. Results revealed both international and country-specific preference characteristics. Best-Worse scores revealed that freshness and taste scored highest in all five countries, while knowledge of the producer was considered the least important attribute. The study also derived three consumer segments by applying cluster analysis, with each segment assessed according to socio-demographic profiles. The novelty of the study is to offer a cross-country analysis of fresh fruit and vegetable consumption patterns in multiple European countries based on the Best-Worst Scaling approach and international segmentation. Managerial implications are proposed.

Nutritional Knowledge, Practices and Challenges of Food and Nutrition Security in the Tharparkar, Sindh, Pakistan

Background: Nutrition is a fundamental need of human beings worldwide. Hunger has increased rapidly all over the world and reached a high level with more than one billion people living with chronic hunger. Objective: The main objective of the proposed study was to identify the challenges of food and nutrition insecurity. Methods: The research team conducted interviews in the respective union councils (UCs) with support of the field team, and subsequently collected and analyzed the data. Results and Discussion: The findings of the present study indicated that 32% of households gave their children food/fluids within one month, followed by breastfeeding. About 81% breastfeeding practice is strictly followed at the household level. Only 23%, 22%, 27% and 28% of children with the ages between 6 and 23 months were given one, two, three and four meals, respectively. The data indicates that about 11% of children faced issues during their feeding practices, while 89% of children did not face any feeding issues. The majority of pregnant and lactating women (PLWs) reported that they did not receive any additional food. The consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits was around 30% twice in a week. The vegetables and fruits, including watermelon, jujube, peroon, singari, pipoon, musk melon, keria and gangheti, were cultivated, which are solely dependent on the seasonal rain. The diseases, such as respiratory diseases, skin diseases, cardiac disease, malaria, dengue and mental illness, were reported; whereas, measles and night blindness were not reported in the selected area. Conclusion: There is a need of spreading the message through media at the district and province levels with the involvement of multi-stakeholders, so that the efforts are synergized to have a sustainable and long-term impact.

The joint contribution of the GGT1 gene and some haploand phenotypes to the development of acute biliary pancreatitis

He aim of the study was to determine the role of polymorphisms of the GGT1 gene and environmental risk factors in the acute biliary pancreatitis. The material of the study was DNA samples obtained from 84 patients with ABP and 573 healthy individuals. The disease was diagnosed using clinical guidelines (Russian Society of Surgeons). To assess the associations of alleles and genotypes of the gene with the risk of acute pancreatitis, the χ2 test and the odds ratio (OR) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were used. Statistical analysis was carried out using the Statistica 10.0 program (StatSoft, USA) and the SNPStats program. Results. It was found that the A/A-G/G rs5760489 and A/A rs4820599 GGT1 genotypes have an increased risk of ABP. The H3 A-A-A-A haplotype is associated with a reduced risk of the disease, while the H6 A-G-A-A haplotype, on the contrary, increases the risk of developing the disease. The absence of exposure to alcohol abuse reduces the risk of ABP in carriers of the genotypes A/G-G/G rs5760489, A/G-G/G rs4820599, smoking -A/G-G/G rs4820599 and A/G-G/G rs5760489. The A/G-G/G rs4820599, G/A-A/A rs5751909 and A/G-G/G rs5760489 genotypes have a protective effect with sufficient consumption of fresh vegetables and fruits, the main suppliers of glutathione to the body. The presence of glutathione deficiency leads to the oxidative stress, and phenotypic changes we found: leukocytosis (allele A, rs5760489), peritonitis (allele A, rs5751909). Conclusion. The GGT1 gene can be used to predict the development and clinical course of acute biliary pancreatitis and its complications.

Ranking and Prioritizing Risk Factors for Gastric Cancer

Background: Gastric cancer is one of the gastrointestinal tract cancers with the highest mortality rate; hence, accurate knowledge of the main causes of this disease is of paramount importance to plan, monitor, and evaluate national and regional programs to control this cancer. The present study was to rank and prioritize gastric cancer risk factors. Methods: In this study, gastric cancer risk factors were first extracted in a systematic review, and they were then ranked and prioritized using a focused group discussion. MICMAC software was used to rank the factors. Results: According to the findings, the following 13 factors had the highest effect on the incidence of gastric cancer: socioeconomic status, age, consumption of pickles and sour vegetables, salt consumption, meat consumption (red, smoked, and processed and salty), consumption of fried foods, consumption of fats and oils, consumption of fish (Salty, smoked, and processed), consumption of bread and leftovers and moldy foods, irregular eating habits, excessive daily calorie intake, smoking (cigarettes, opium, and hookah), and alcohol consumption. Conclusion: Prioritizing risk factors would help policymakers identify and present executive strategies and detect action priorities to manage gastric cancer risk factors. According to the findings of the present study, national planning to support vulnerable socio-economic groups, the development of screening programs, and the early detection of diseases in the early stages at an early age, and diet adjustment to increase the consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables and reduce salt, high-fat and fried foods, salted foods, and processed meats are recommended.

Mother’s perceptions of healthy diet for children in Ukraine

Multiple chronic diseases could be prevented by introducing and implementing healthy diet policies oriented for preschool children in the time of setting life-long habits. The role of mothers is highlighted to be crucial for a preschooler’s diet. It was important to conduct research to explore and investigate mothers’ perceptions of healthy diet for children in small towns in Ukraine. The study applies the qualitative methodology of semi-structured interviews using the strategy of a snowball and maximum variation sampling approaches interviewing mothers of preschool children in Lubny (Poltava Region, Ukraine) including local- and national-level health experts. As the research instrument, a topic guide was developed. It is based on the categories of analysis. The study displays that there is a variety of perceptions around healthy diet among interviewed mothers and health experts. It was also confirmed by previous studies that the mothers’ perceptions of a healthy diet for children are highly linked to socio-demographic characteristics which was found in the article. Common for all interviewed mothers was the perception about fresh fruits and vegetables consumption as the additional component of the child’s diet, but not the basis. None of the mothers was fully aware of World Health Organisation recommendations for a healthy diet. Based on the results, we conclude that mothers of preschool children in Lubny may be grouped into three main types by their perceptions about healthy diet: 1) the conservative type (mothers who prefer traditional meals for children and have a high level of trust to medical doctors and institutions in Lubny); 2) the loyal type (mothers have the same perceptions about healthy diet as conservative yet with a high loyalty to junk food in children’s diet); 3) the critical type (mothers who reported different from conservative type perceptions about healthy diet and tend to have low level of trust to the medical doctors and institutions in Lubny). The study represents findings relevant for Lubny and Poltava Region in Ukraine. Further research is needed to provide more data for a better understanding of perceptions about a healthy diet for children in Ukraine.

Association between Dietary Behavior and Overweight and Obesity among Chinese Students: A Cross-Sectional Study.

To investigate the prevalence of overweight and obesity among Ningbo students and explore the association between students' dietary behavior and overweight and obesity. A total of 7299 students were recruited, including 3755 males and 3544 females. A questionnaire on student health status and influencing factors was used to investigate dietary behavior. Logistic regression analysis investigated the relationship between dietary behavior and overweight and obesity. Age, gender, area, grade, sleep duration, and physical activity were adjusted in the multivariate regression models. This study revealed that the prevalence of overweight and obesity in Ningbo students was 16.14% and 9.88%, respectively. The logistic regression analysis results showed that regular consumption of sugary beverages was associated with a higher risk of being overweight (OR = 1.256, 95% CI: 1.023-1.542, p = 0.029). The research indicated that skipping breakfast was considered a risk factor for obesity (OR = 2.102, 95% CI: 1.087-4.065, p = 0.027). After adjusting for age, gender, area, and grade and continuing to adjust for sleep duration and physical activity, the results showed that consuming fried food at least once a day increased the risk of obesity (OR = 1.494, 95% CI: 1.050-2.125, p = 0.026; OR = 1.516, 95% CI: 1.065-2.158, p = 0.021, respectively). This study found that the frequency of breakfast and the consumption of fried food, fresh vegetables, and fruits were not significantly associated with being overweight (p > 0.05). This study indicated that dietary behavior was related to overweight and obesity among Ningbo students. Further studies and more government support are required to confirm this study's findings and address the current overweight/obesity problems.

Modern Food Habits and Its Impact on Human Health

Modern food habits have undergone significant changes due to urbanization, technological advancements, and shifting lifestyles. These changes often involve increased consumption of processed foods, high sugar and fat intake, and reduced consumption of fresh fruits and vegetables. Such habits have been linked to increased health issues like obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and other chronic conditions. Understanding and addressing the impact of these modern food habits on health is crucial for promoting healthier lifestyles and preventing the associated health risks.