Healthy Dietary Habits Research Articles

Determinants of nutrition status among adolescents in selected secondary schools in rural Kanungu district Uganda

Background: Adolescence, the time between childhood and adulthood, often considered relatively healthy stage of life remain highly vulnerable to malnutrition. One crucial first step in reducing teenage malnutrition may be to attend to their dietary needs. This study examined the determinants of nutrition status among secondary school adolescents in the Kanungu district, Uganda. Methods: A school-based cross-sectional analytical study was employed in this study where both qualitative and quantitative methods of data collection were used for triangulation purposes. A multi-stage random sampling method was applied to obtain the study respondents. The Cochran formula was utilized to obtain 340 study respondents. Results: More than a quarter (37.1%) of the study respondents had malnutrition. Households that were father-headed (OR=1.8,95%CI=1.03-3.20), having met the recommended number of meal frequency (OR=2, 95%CI=1.13-3.44), being aware of healthy dietary habits (OR=2.2, 95%CI=0.29-0.71), having a small household size of 1-4 members (OR=4.3, 95%CI=2.38-7.83) and being employed (OR=2.1, 95%CI=1.17-3.93) increased the odds of having a normal nutrition status while having a primary level of education (OR=3.6, 95%CI=0.11-0.68), having an inadequate dietary score (OR=2.1,95%CI=0.28-0.76) reduced the odds of having a normal nutrition status. Conclusions: From this study, malnutrition was a public health concern. Households that were father-headed, being aware of healthy dietary habits, having a small household size of 1-4 members, and being employed increased the odds of having a normal nutrition status while having a primary level of education, having an inadequate dietary score reduced the odds of having a normal nutrition status.

Students’ Perceptions of Food Offer in Portuguese Canteens and Adherence to Mediterranean Diets

Abstract Adherence to healthy eating behaviors, as in the Mediterranean Diet, is related to a better quality of life, better educational performance, and reduced risk of physical illness among higher education students. The provision of good quality and sustainable food is imperative in university environments. Nevertheless, the availability of healthy options tends to be limited across campuses (e.g., affordable fast food; the convenience of high-sugary foods in vending machines), including university canteens. Understanding students’ views on canteens and the factors that prevent them from embracing healthy eating habits may help to improve the food supply on campuses. In the present study, we aimed to examine students’ perceptions of canteen services and its food supply and to verify students’ knowledge and promptness to comply with a Mediterranean Diet menu. A large sample of academic students from Portuguese universities answered an online survey with a mixed approach. Specifically, participants were requested to characterize their dietary practices and report their perceptions about food services and offers in campus canteens. Additionally, students were asked about their knowledge, perceptions, and adherence to Mediterranean Diet. Our findings allow us to map perceptions and attitudes regarding food offered in university canteens and to identify the potential to adhere to more sustainable and healthier food patterns according to individual. Moreover, we identified the main psychological and environmental barriers to adhering Mediterranean Diet. Correlational data indicated a relationship between health-related measures and food-related factors. Advancing data about modifiable factors associated with better adherence to healthy dietary habits in the university context informs the development of actions/interventions to prevent unhealthy food choices and overcome limited and unhealthy food offers in canteen campuses.

9.N. Practice session: From Data to Action – Joining forces to close the inequity gap in adolescent health

Abstract Persistent adolescent health inequalities exist in Europe, necessitating interventions that address both individual and societal factors, especially those pertinent to youths in unfavourable contexts. Collaborative efforts involving cross-sectoral partnerships and adolescent engagement are crucial in identifying and mitigating these disparities. Three case studies exemplify this approach. Case study 1: Effective intervention development hinges upon the translation of epidemiological insights into tangible actions. Heiko Schmengler will discuss how individual and contextual-level data is made actionable for the development of ePro-schools, an e-health intervention to promote healthy dietary habits and physical activity amongst adolescents in socially disadvantaged settings. ePro-schools brings together stakeholders from academia, the health sector, the education system, and local communities. This collaborative approach ensures that the intervention is not only grounded in solid scientific evidence but also fits the specific cultural, social, and economic contexts of the adolescents it aims to serve. Case study 2: Adolescents are not passive consumers of interventions, but active agents who frequently understand best what they need to improve regarding their health. Lourdes Cantarero Arevalo will share innovative methodologies and best practices for involving adolescents in data collection, intervention design, and policy development processes with the final aim to empower the voices of adolescents in vulnerable situations while addressing problems that are relevant for them. Case study 3: Filipa Alves da Costa will draw attention to the health concerns of adolescents resulting from incarceration. This talk will outline the development of a policy brief derived from UN global study data, which highlights the importance of cross-sectoral collaboration in developing actions to safeguard access to high quality healthcare for adolescents within the criminal justice system. A cross-sectoral approach is critical given that criminal justice systems typically fall outside the direct oversight of health ministries. The goal is to encourage policymakers, practitioners, and advocates to consider inter-sectoral strategies to address the complex health challenges these adolescents face. Following the presentations, we will facilitate a dynamic discussion with the audience, encouraging an exchange of ideas on strategies to address adolescent health inequalities from a multilevel perspective. This discussion aims to draw on the collective expertise of participants from diverse backgrounds, including practitioners, researchers, and policymakers. This dialogue aims to identify common barriers and opportunities, fostering a collaborative approach to tackling inequalities. The goal is to emerge from the workshop with a richer understanding of effective strategies that can be leveraged to close the gap in adolescent health across Europe. Key messages • Health inequalities among adolescents must be tackled collaboratively across different sectors and with participation of adolescents. • Participants will gain valuable insights on innovative solutions and effective methodologies from the case studies to inform their own efforts in addressing adolescent health inequalities.

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

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

Estimating The Prevalence of Non-Communicable Diseases and Adherence to Dietary Habits And Physical Activity Among Healthcare Professionals in The Middle East And North Africa Regions

The rising number of fatalities linked to food, exercise, and non-communicable illnesses has sparked interest in studying their effects. In society, Healthcare Professionals (HCPs) symbolize health and wellbeing. However, the incidence of chronic illness and healthy habits among Middle East and North Africa (MENA) HCPs remains unclear. To determine the prevalence of chronic diseases and adherence to healthy dietary habits and physical activity among HCPs in the MENA region. Algeria, Egypt, El Yemen, Iraq, Jordan, Kuwait, Libya, Palestine, Saudi Arabia, Sudan, and Syria HCPs (physicians, dentists, nurses, pharmacists, and nutritionists) participated in multicenter cross-sectional research. April to June 2022 data on diet and exercise habits was collected using a pre-tested self-administered questionnaire. Demographics, risk factors, medical history, and nutrition and exercise were included in the questionnaire. HCP diet and exercise were examined using multivariable regression models. A study of 7130 HCPs (mean age 28.6 ± 7.8 years, 57.5% females) was conducted. Physicians held 56.8% of the sample population, followed by pharmacists, nurses, dentists, and nutritionists. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) affected 33.1% of individuals. Alcohol, pork, soda, sugar, and smoking raised the risk of non-communicable diseases. Nutritionists were the most active HCPs. About half of dietitians (45.3%) walked 150 minutes or more per week, while 14.7% and 25.9% did 150 minutes or more of moderate and 75 minutes or more of intense exercise, respectively. HCPs in MENA had high rates of CVD and risk factors such smoking, alcohol, pork, soda, sugar, and less exercise. MENA HCPs must be aware of the significant incidence of these risk factors to enhance health behavior.

Dietary pattern and menstrual disorders among female university students.

Assessment of the relationship between dietary patterns and menstrual disorders among female medical and paramedical students at Beni-Suef University, Egypt. Beni-Suef University conducted a cross-sectional analytical questionnaire-based study. Three hundred fifty two female medical and paramedical students agreed to participate in the study. The collected data about demographics, physical activity, menstrual history, and dietary assessment were transferred to SPSS version 26 for statistical analysis. A p value≤0.05 was considered statistically significant. The prevalence of irregular cycles, heavy blood flow, severe dysmenorrhea, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) was found to be (21.9 %), (13.1 %), (35.5 %), and (68.9 %), respectively. Poor adherence to the Mediterranean diet (40.1 %) and physical activity (69.9 %) was present. Females with irregular cycles (p=0.472), heavy menstrual blood flow (p=0.007), and severe dysmenorrhea (p=0.029) reported lower adherence to the Mediterranean diet. Mothers' educational level (p=0.034), family income (p=0.005), and family size (p=0.009) were significantly associated with dietary adherence. Poor adherence to regular physical activity and the Mediterranean diet is highly prevalent in our research and is highly associated with menstruation disorders. So, it is critical to support health education programs emphasizing healthy dietary habits and regular physical activity to improve menstrual health and women's quality of life.

The impact of perception bias for cardiovascular disease risk on physical activity and dietary habits

ObjectiveCardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a significant public health challenge in China. Accurate perception of individual CVD risk is crucial for timely intervention and preventive strategies. This study aims to determine the alignment between CVD risk perception levels and objectively calculated CVD risk levels, then investigate the disparity in physical activity and healthy diet habits among distinct CVD risk perception categories. MethodsFrom March to August 2022, a cross-sectional survey was conducted in Zhejiang Province using convenience sampling. Participants aged between 20 and 80 years, without prior diagnosis of CVD were included. CVD risk perception was evaluated with the Chinese version of the Attitude and Beliefs about Cardiovascular Disease Risk Questionnaire (ABCD-C), while objective CVD risk was assessed through the Prediction for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Risk (China-PAR) model. Participants’ demographic information, self-reported physical activity, and healthy diet score were also collected. ResultsA total of 739 participants were included in the final analysis. Less than a third of participants (29.3%) accurately perceived their CVD risk, while 64.5% over-perceived it and 6.2% under-perceived it. Notably, half of the individuals (50.0%) with high CVD risk under-perceived their actual risk. Compared to the accurate perception group, individuals aged 60-80 years old (OR = 6.569), currently drinking (OR = 3.059), and with hypertension (OR = 2.352) were more likely to under-perceive their CVD risk. Meanwhile, participants aged 40-<60 years old (OR = 2.462) and employed (OR = 2.352) were more likely to over-perceive their risk. The proportion of individuals engaging in physical activity was lowest in the under-perception group, although the difference among the three groups was not statistically significant (χ2=2.556, P=0.278). In addition, the proportion of individuals practicing healthy diet habits was also lowest in the under-perception group, and a significant statistical difference was observed among the three groups (χ2=10.310, P=0.006). ConclusionOnly a small proportion of participants accurately perceived their CVD risk, especially among those with high actual CVD risk. Individuals in the under-perceived CVD risk group exhibited the lowest rates of physical activity engagement and healthy diet adherence. Healthcare professionals should prioritize implementing personalized CVD risk communication strategies tailored to specific subgroups to enhance the accuracy of risk perception.

The Association between Food Groups, Nutraceuticals, and Food Supplements Consumption on Vascular Health Outcomes: A Literature Review.

Vascular aging, marked by alterations in the structure and function of blood vessels, including heightened arterial stiffness and impaired endothelial function, is linked to a higher likelihood of developing cardiovascular and age-associated pathological conditions. Oxidative stress and inflammation are key stimulation factors in vascular aging. Engaging in healthy dietary habits could enhance the functioning of blood vessels. The aim of this study was to conduct a literature review of the evidence regarding the relationship between food regimens, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements and vascular health. A search of electronic databases, including PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science Core Collection, was performed. Experimental and observational studies evaluating the association between food groups, nutraceuticals, supplements, and endothelial function and/or arterial stiffness were deemed eligible for this narrative review. Based on the current body of the included studies, food groups, nutraceuticals, and dietary supplements may not demonstrate superiority over placebos in enhancing markers of vascular health. To obtain more reliable evidence on the effectiveness of interventions in vascular health, additional RCTs with larger sample sizes, extended follow-up periods, and multi-center participation are necessary. Enhancing the credibility of these RCTs requires better control of dietary variables and more precise measurement of vascular health markers.

Inadequate Intake of Choline and Essential Fatty Acids in Latin American Childbearing-Age Women as a Regional Pre-Conceptional Disadvantage: ELANS Results.

Choline and essential fatty acids (EFA) are vital for fetal brain development, supporting pregnancy, and maintaining hormonal balance. They also promote overall health. The childbearing years present a window of opportunity to increase the intake of these key nutrients and develop healthy dietary habits. The aims of this study were to evaluate the intake of choline and EFA in women of childbearing age (15-49 years old), identify their food sources and determine if supplements containing choline and EFA were available across the Estudio Latinoamericano de Nutrición y Salud (ELANS) countries. Survey data were collected for the ELANS, including participants from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Ecuador, Peru, and Venezuela (n = 9218; 15-65 years old). Women of childbearing age were extracted from the largest database (n = 3704). In general, choline intake was inadequate in all countries, while EFA intake was normal or above requirements. Chile had the lowest intake of choline, and Colombia had the highest. The results showed that some countries had more inadequate choline intake than others. Consuming a larger quantity of eggs helped reduce choline inadequacy, as did including eggs and fish in the diet. The intake of EFA, including ALA, EPA, and DHA, showed variability. The contributions of EPA and DHA were lower than that of ALA, and the results differed by age group. choline intake is inadequate, and EFA intake is variable among women of childbearing age in the ELANS study. More awareness and education are needed to achieve better intake of these nutrients.

Association of the Mediterranean diet with arterial stiffness, inflammation, and medication use in women with systemic lupus erythematosus: An exploratory study

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) face increased cardiovascular risk not fully explained by traditional cardiovascular risk factors. Arterial stiffness, inflammation and disease-related therapies may be contributors to augmented cardiovascular risk, whereas healthy dietary habits could help in their management. The aim of the present study was to analyze the association of the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet with arterial stiffness, inflammation, and disease-related medication in women with SLE. A total of 76 women with SLE were included in this cross-sectional exploratory study. The adherence to the Mediterranean Diet was assessed using the Mediterranean Diet Score. Arterial stiffness was measured through pulse wave velocity (PWV). Inflammatory profile was evaluated through high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP). The use (yes / no) and doses (mg /day and cumulative dose over the last 3 years) of corticosteroids and immunosuppressants were also registered. No association of the overall adherence to the Mediterranean Diet with PWV, hsCRP or medication use was found (all P>.05). Lower intake of full dairy products was related to greater odds of corticosteroids use (odds=1.72; P=.004), and both higher current (β=0.29; P=.024) and cumulative (β=0.21; P=.040) doses. Lower intake of red wine was associated with lower odds of immunosuppressants use (odds=0.63; P=.008). No association of the adherence to the Mediterranean Diet with arterial stiffness, inflammation or disease-related medication was observed in women with SLE with mild disease activity. However, higher dairy products and lower red wine consumption were related to lower use of disease-related medication. Future intervention studies are needed to better understand how nutritional education promoting Mediterranean Diet food groups can complement conventional SLE treatments.

Comparative Assessment of Compomers and Ormocers as Pit and Fissure Sealants in Permanent Molars among Children Aged 7-9 Years.

In recent years, the dental profession's focus has shifted from the therapeutic to the preventive aspect of dental caries. Pit and fissure sealants, optimal fluoridation, healthy dietary habits, and good oral hygiene have been recommended for caries prevention. Many sealant materials are available on the market. Compomers are hybrid dental materials that are modified composite resins with polyacids. The esthetic properties of traditional composite systems are combined with the fluoride-releasing and adhesive properties of glass ionomer cement (GIC). Organically modified ceramic (Ormocer) material has high abrasion resistance and better aesthetics, similar to natural teeth. To compare the sealing ability of compomer and ormocer as pit and fissure sealants in permanent mandibular first molars of 7-9-year-old children. A cross-sectional study with a split-mouth design was conducted on 88 children aged 7-9 years who attended the Department of Pediatric and Preventive Dentistry. Children were selected based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria. By tossing a coin, the placement of sealant material was selected for the right permanent first molar. Rubber dam isolation was done. The tooth surface was etched and washed. The respective sealants were applied. Sealants were cured with visible light, and occlusion was checked with articulating paper. Subsequently, the second sealant was placed in the next appointment, following the same clinical procedure in the opposite quadrant. Clinical evaluation was done at 3, 6, and 9 months for retention, marginal integrity, color match, wear, and presence of caries. The criteria were graded and rated as alpha, beta, and charlie based on modified Ryge United States Public Health Service (USPHS) criteria. All the data were statistically analyzed using Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) software 20.0. The retention rate of ormocer at the 9-month review interval was 88.3%. There was a statistically significant difference in retention rates between compomer and ormocer (p = 0.003). The marginal integrity and wear of ormocer at the 9-month review interval were 84.4% compared with compomer, which was statistically significant with p = 0.010 and p = 0.035, respectively. Children with the fewest caries belonged to the ormocer group (p = 0.010) compared to the compomer group. Children with ormocer as a pit and fissure sealant showed good retention, remarkable marginal integrity, absence of wear, and fewer dental caries compared to compomer sealants. Hence, ormocer-based sealants can be used in pediatric dental practice to protect children's oral hygiene and promote a healthy lifestyle. Saravanan SM, Srinivasan D, AR SE, et al. Comparative Assessment of Compomers and Ormocers as Pit and Fissure Sealants in Permanent Molars among Children Aged 7-9 Years. Int J Clin Pediatr Dent 2024;17(7):742-747.

Pesticides and transformation products footprint in Greek market basket vegetables: Comprehensive screening by HRMS and health risk assessment

Healthy dietary habits encourage vegetable consumption. Although pesticide use in crops may negatively affect human health through food intake, it can also contaminate aquatic and terrestrial environments. Thus, monitoring pesticides in high-consumption matrices is crucial. This study conducted a complete workflow of analysis, including a step of target analysis of 30 widely used pesticides and a subsequent step of suspect screening. A validated QuEChERS method was employed to analyze 61 samples of fruiting vegetables and cucurbits, packaged leafy greens, and root and tuber vegetables, commercially distributed across Greece. The method proved to be highly efficient for all validation characteristics. After target analysis, the change in the residue levels detected during sample processing was evaluated as a case study using available literature data. A health risk assessment based on diet indicated acute and chronic hazard quotients (aHQ and cHQ) and chronic hazard index (cHI) values below 1. Concerning suspect screening, 53 additional identifications of pesticides and transformation products (TPs) were revealed, totaling 86 detections. Overall, 18 parent pesticide compounds and 5 TPs were identified. Ultimately, this approach is expected to provide added value in pesticide and TPs analysis of food matrices without prior data, minimizing experimental time and costs.

Oral health in obese children common findings, prevention, treatment and outcome

Childhood obesity is a significant global public health issue, closely linked to various oral health challenges, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Obese children are more prone to these dental problems due to dietary habits that include high sugar and carbohydrate intake, poor oral hygiene practices, and systemic inflammation. This review explores the common oral health issues faced by obese children and emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and tailored treatment approaches. Preventive measures include promoting healthy dietary habits, improving oral hygiene practices, and ensuring regular dental check-ups. Dietary modifications, such as reducing the intake of sugary snacks and beverages, play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems. Educating children and caregivers about proper brushing and flossing techniques and the use of fluoride toothpaste and dental sealants further supports oral health. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and management of dental issues, with professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and appropriate restorative and periodontal therapies being integral components of care. The outcomes of these comprehensive treatment strategies are generally positive, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life for obese children. Multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers, including dentists, pediatricians, and nutritionists, is essential to develop effective care plans that address both obesity and oral health. This integrated approach ensures that obese children receive holistic care that promotes lifelong healthy habits, reducing the risk of future dental and systemic health problems. The review underscores the necessity of a concerted effort to address the intertwined issues of obesity and oral health in children, highlighting the potential for significant health improvements through targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Association of dietary habits with general and abdominal obesity in Korean children and adolescents: cluster analysis of nationwide population survey data.

Childhood obesity is a growing global health concern, but few studies have investigated dietary factors specifically related to obesity and abdominal obesity in children and adolescents. Herein, we aimed to identify the dietary factors affecting childhood obesity in Korean children and adolescents. Data from the Korea National Health and Nutrition Survey (KNHANES) VIII were analyzed using K-means clustering analysis to identify distinct clusters based on nine variables related to dietary habit, nutritional status, and nutritional education. Multiple logistic regression analysis was used to examine the association between incident obesity risk and the different clusters. We enrolled 2,290 participants aged 6-18 years, and separated them into two distinct clusters; Healthy and Unhealthy Dietary Habit Groups, clusters 1 and 2, respectively. Cluster 1 was characterized by a lower obesity prevalence, healthier dietary habits (regular breakfast consumption; fruit and vegetable, reduced total energy, and lower protein and fat intakes), and greater nutritional education than Cluster 2. After adjusting for confounders, compared with Cluster 1, Cluster 2 demonstrated a significantly higher prevalence (OR [95% CI]) of both general and abdominal obesity (1.49 [1.05-2.13], p=0.027 and 1.43 [1.09-1.88], p=0.009). Maintaining optimal dietary quality and patterns are crucial to prevent childhood obesity. Further research is warranted to explore specific dietary interventions tailored to different clusters to effectively address childhood obesity.

Sex-specific effects of a Mediterranean diet on lower limb bone strength in Polish children

Lifestyle factors have the potential to influence bone health in various ways, whether positively or negatively. As osteoporosis is believed to originate in early years, it is therefore essential to indicate factors that may positively affect bone health during childhood. The aim of our study was to investigate the effects of early and current diet, vitamin D supplementation, and BMI z-score on bone properties in a group of children aged 3–7 years. A cross-sectional sample of 205 preschoolers and their parents participated in the study. Dietary assessment was made using a modified version of the Polish-adapted Mediterranean Diet score (MVP-aMED) on the basis of the data from food frequency questionnaire (FFQ), filled out by the parents. Quantitative ultrasound (QUS) was used in the assessment of bone properties. In the sex-stratified analysis, significant associations were observed between MVP-aMED score (β = 0.193, 95 % CI: 0.005, 0.237; p = 0.04), BMI z-score (β = −0.318, 95 % CI: −1.455, −0.039; p = 0.04) and QUS z-score, exclusively among girls. After adjustment, only the relationship with diet remained significant (β = 0.209, 95 % CI: 0.007, 0.255; p = 0.04), suggesting that a higher adherence to the Mediterranean Diet may be associated with better bone properties in girls aged 3–7 years old. Our results emphasize the importance of fostering healthy dietary habits and maintaining proper weight in children in order to promote optimal bone development.

Patterns of food consumption among women with breast cancer: A multicenter study in Indonesia

BackgroundBreast cancer (BC) is a leading cancer among women globally, with a rising incidence in Indonesia. Dietary habits are implicated in BC development and progression, yet there is limited understanding among Indonesian women. This study aims to evaluate the patterns of food consumption among Indonesian women with BC. MethodsA cross-sectional study was conducted among Indonesian women with BC at three national hospitals. The sample size was determined to be 362 participants. Each participant was provided with information and asked to provide written informed consent before face-to-face interviews. Dietary behaviors were assessed using a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) adapted to local cuisine. Exploratory factor analysis was used to describe dietary behavior patterns. All analyses were performed using R version 4.3.0 with the epicalc and psych packages. ResultsParticipants were predominantly aged 50 years or older, had middle incomes, and exhibited varied dietary habits. We identified three dietary patterns: the “Carnivorous and Sugar” diet, the “Vegetables and Snacks” diet, and the “Traditional” diet. The “Carnivorous and Sugar” diet was characterized by a high consumption of meat, poultry, sweetened drinks or condiments, and desserts. The “Vegetables and Snacks” diet involved more frequent consumption of leafy green vegetables, yellow or orange vegetables, packaged snacks, and unpackaged snacks. The “Traditional” diet was marked by a high intake of tubers, eggs, and soybean products. ConclusionThis study's findings enhance our understanding of dietary patterns among Indonesian women with BC and their potential impact on BC risk. These findings highlight the importance of promoting healthy dietary habits, such as consuming more fruits, and vegetables while reducing the intake of red and processed meats, and sugary foods for BC prevention.

Unraveling the Shift: Exploring Factors Influencing Protein Preference and Consumption Patterns in Ga South Municipality of Ghana

This study endeavors to elucidate the factors influencing protein preference and consumption patterns in the Ga South Municipality of Ghana. Understanding these determinants is pivotal for promoting environmentally sustainable and healthy dietary habits. Utilizing a random sampling approach, the study collected 150 meticulously structured questionnaires from a representative sample of municipality residents. It delved into the socio-cultural and economic factors shaping protein preferences and consumption behaviors, alongside investigating the impact of awareness, knowledge, and availability of protein sources on dietary choices. The findings unveiled that respondents partake of protein daily, albeit with variations in patterns based on sources: plant protein consumption occurred weekly, while animal protein was consumed daily. Moreover, respondents exhibited awareness of the nutritional benefits associated with protein consumption. While awareness for protein nutrition is high, the price remains a deterrent to accessing protein in Ga South Municipality. Calling on policymakers to support local food production and supply, invest in food literacy, and develop good transportation to reduce logistics bottlenecks that often create a massive difference between farm gate and market prices.

The Erasmus+ EUMOVE project-a school-based promotion of healthy lifestyles to prevent obesity in European children and adolescents.

The aim of this study was to describe the goals, activities, and methods of EUMOVE project in developing a set of resources targeting both primary and secondary schools that allow the entire educational community to promote healthy lifestyles (HL). The EUMOVE project is an Erasmus+ program based in the Creating Active Schools (CAS) framework. The project lasted 3 years and was developed by 14 academic and non-governmental institutions from Spain, Portugal, France, Italy, and the UK. EUMOVE was divided into three phases. In the first phase, several work packages were carried out aimed to ensure the coordination/management of the project activities. In the second phase, seven educational resources strengthened by rigorous scientific research were developed to promote HL from schools. During the last phase, all the resources were disseminated through scientific seminars, workshops with families and teachers, and the online promotion by the non-governmental institutions of each country. The EUMOVE project developed and promoted a smartphone APP, video/activity repository of physically active lessons, active break virtual platform, learning units, and parent/teachers/school-leaders' guidelines to promote physical activity, active commuting, active school playgrounds, healthy diet, and sleep habits. To our knowledge, EUMOVE is the first European project to provide a set of practical tools based on scientific evidence to help schools or future school-wide interventions implement a paradigm shift based on the CAS framework for the promotion of HL. Future research will need to investigate the implementation, effectiveness, and scalability of this proposal.

Oral health in obese children common findings, prevention, treatment, and outcome

Childhood obesity is a significant global public health issue, closely linked to various oral health challenges, including dental caries, periodontal disease, and malocclusion. Obese children are more prone to these dental problems due to dietary habits that include high sugar and carbohydrate intake, poor oral hygiene practices, and systemic inflammation. This review explores the common oral health issues faced by obese children and emphasizes the importance of preventive strategies and tailored treatment approaches. Preventive measures include promoting healthy dietary habits, improving oral hygiene practices, and ensuring regular dental check-ups. Dietary modifications, such as reducing the intake of sugary snacks and beverages, play a crucial role in preventing tooth decay and other dental problems. Educating children and caregivers about proper brushing and flossing techniques and the use of fluoride toothpaste and dental sealants further supports oral health. Regular dental visits allow for early detection and management of dental issues, with professional cleanings, fluoride treatments, and appropriate restorative and periodontal therapies being integral components of care. The outcomes of these comprehensive treatment strategies are generally positive, leading to improved oral health and overall quality of life for obese children. Multidisciplinary collaboration among healthcare providers, including dentists, pediatricians, and nutritionists, is essential to develop effective care plans that address both obesity and oral health. This integrated approach ensures that obese children receive holistic care that promotes lifelong healthy habits, reducing the risk of future dental and systemic health problems. The review underscores the necessity of a concerted effort to address the intertwined issues of obesity and oral health in children, highlighting the potential for significant health improvements through targeted prevention and treatment strategies.

Effects of Universal School-Based Parental Support for Children’s Healthy Diet and Physical Activity—the Healthy School Start Plus Cluster–Randomised Controlled Trial

Health promotion from an early age is key to preventing unhealthy weight development in childhood, and parental involvement is essential. The school-based Healthy School Start intervention aims to promote healthy dietary and activity habits in the home environment and prevent child obesity through parental support. This study evaluated the effectiveness of the third iteration of the programme on children’s dietary and activity behaviours, and body composition through a cluster-randomised controlled trial. The trial included 17 schools (8 intervention) in disadvantaged areas in mid-Sweden with 353 families with 5- to 7-year-old children. The primary outcomes were intake of selected healthy and unhealthy foods and beverages measured using photography. Secondary outcomes were physical activity and sedentary time measured by accelerometry, and measured weight and height. All outcomes were assessed at baseline and post-intervention (8 months). Linear multi-level regression showed significant favourable effects of the intervention for intake of sweet beverages (b = − 0.17, p = 0.04), intake of healthy foods (b = 0.11, p = 0.04), and more time in moderate to vigorous physical activity during weekdays (b = 5.68, p = 0.02). An unfavourable sub-group effect of the intervention was found for children from families with low education regarding sedentary time on weekends (b = 23.04, p = 0.05). The results align with the previous two trials of the programme, indicating that school-based parental support is a useful approach for health promotion in young children in disadvantaged areas. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov: No. NCT03390725, retrospectively registered on January 4, 2018, https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03390725.