High Sugar Consumption Research Articles

Assessment of Microbial Interactions between Potential Lactic Acid Bacteria Starters and Major Microorganisms During in vitro Fermentation in a Medium Similar to Cocoa Pulp in Côte d'Ivoire

However, uncontrolled or random fermentations carried out in the country by farmers producing marketable cocoa beans of variable quality. The problem of variability in the quality of beans has led to significant economic losses in the country estimated at several billion CFA Francs. The objective of this work was to analyze the interactions between potential starter lactic acid bacteria and the major microorganisms selected during cocoa fermentations in Côte d’Ivoire. The work methodology began with the cultivation of yeast, lactic acid bacteria, acetic acid bacteria and Bacillus strains in their respective YPG, MRS, YEPG and BN media for 48 hours at 30°C. Then, the microbial load of each culture was determined and set at 105 cells/mL. The strains were subsequently placed in the similar interaction medium of cocoa pulp (PSM) alone (monoculture) or together (coculture) for the study of microbial interactions. This study took place over 5 days and samples were taken for analyzes after 0, 48 and 120 hours of incubation at 30°C. The interaction was monitored by assessing microbial growth using optical density and Thoma cell counts for monocultures and agar media for cocultures. Additionally, acid production and reduction in sugar intake were also measured over the 5 days. All crops showed good growth. Growth was greater in cocultures with values ​​ranging from 4.12 log (CFU/mL) to 9.21 log (CFU/mL). In addition, the cocktails acidified the environment much more than the monocultures with values ​​oscillating between 0.10 ± 0.00 and 0.21 ± 0.00. Also, the quantity of sugars in the different broths decreased significantly in the cocktails during the first 48 hours, going from 1.08 ± 0.08 to 0.20 ± 0.01. Microbial starters in monocultures and cocultures have shown their ability to adapt to the environment like cocoa pulp. The high microbial growth, sugar consumption, and acidification of the medium in the cocktails reflected a synergistic interaction between the strains during fermentation when they were together. In short, these strains could be used for a starter composition to control fermentation and obtain good quality beans.

Impact of Pure, Co-, and Sequential Fermentations with Hanseniaspora sp. and Saccharomyces cerevisiae on the Volatile Compounds of Ciders

Pure, co-, and sequential fermentations of Hanseniaspora uvarum, H. guilliermondii, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae strains were evaluated to improve the aromatic quality of ciders. In sequential fermentations, Hanseniaspora strains were used as starter, followed by S. cerevisiae inoculation succeeding one, two, and three days of fermentation. Kinetics, physicochemical parameters, and volatile compounds were assessed during 10 days of fermentation. The headspace technique was used to capture the volatile compounds from the ciders obtained in each experiment and analyzed by gas chromatography. Fermentations with pure strains of Hansenisaspora sp. showed a high population (>1010 CFU/mL) but had a low fermentation rate (2.3–3.8 CO2 g/L/d), low consumption of amino acids (20–40 mg/L) with a high residual content, high sugar consumption (80–90 g/L), and low alcohol content (<2.0% v/v). The H. uvarum strain produced a notably high ester content (245 mg/L). In the co-fermentations, H. guilliermondii with S. cerevisiae highlighted a significant production of higher alcohols, similar to that produced by S. cerevisiae alone (152–165 mg/L). In general, the maximum fermentation rate of the sequential inoculations was lower than co-fermentations but showed low residual nitrogen content (<69 mg/L) and good conversion of sugars into ethanol (4.3–5.7% v/v). The highest concentrations of volatile compounds were observed in treatments involving the two non-conventional strains: H. uvarum with S. cerevisiae inoculation after three days (564 mg/L) and H. guilliermondii after just one day (531 mg/L) of fermentation. These differences stemmed from the metabolic activity of the strains. H. uvarum was influenced by the presence of Saccharomyces, whereas H. guilliermondii did not exhibit this effect. Thus, a pure H. uvarum inoculum has the potential to produce a demi-sec cider with low alcohol content and high content of esters, contributing to a fruity aroma. In addition, ciders with sequential inoculation were the most promising for dry cider processing concerning fermentation parameters and bioaroma enrichment.

Hypercaloric low-carbohydrate high-fat diet protects against the development of nonalcoholic fatty liver disease in obese mice in contrast to isocaloric Western diet.

Obesity and metabolic complications, such as type 2 diabetes and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), are one of the greatest public health challenges of the 21st century. The major role of high sugar and carbohydrate consumption rather than caloric intake in obesity and NAFLD pathophysiology remains a subject of debate. A low-carbohydrate but high-fat diet (LCHFD) has shown promising results in obesity management, but its effects in preventing NAFLD need to be detailed. This study aims to compare the effects of a LCHFD with a high-fat high-sugar obesogenic Western diet (WD) on the progression of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Male C57BL/6J mice were initially fed a WD for 10 weeks. Subsequently, they were either switched to a LCHFD or maintained on the WD for an additional 6 weeks. Hepatic effects of the diet were explored by histological staining and RT-qPCR. After the initial 10 weeks WD feeding, LCHF diet demonstrated effectiveness in halting weight gain, maintaining a normal glucose tolerance and insulin levels, in comparison to the WD-fed mice, which developed obesity, glucose intolerance, increased insulin levels and induced NAFLD. In the liver, LCHFD mitigated the accumulation of hepatic triglycerides and the increase in Fasn relative gene expression compared to the WD mice. Beneficial effects of the LCHFD occurred despite a similar calorie intake compared to the WD mice. Our results emphasize the negative impact of a high sugar/carbohydrate and lipid association for obesity progression and NAFLD development. LCHFD has shown beneficial effects for NAFLD management, notably improving weight management, and maintaining a normal glucose tolerance and liver health.

Personality Traits and Healthy Eating Habits and Behaviors: A Narrative Review

‘Findings from many interdisciplinary studies have revealed the important roles of nutrition in improving people’s physical mental and social health. Among other factors, personality influences the type of food consumed and consequently is predictive of health-related state. The aim of this review is to appraise the available scientific evidence regarding the effect of personality on eating habits, and whether personality traits are associated with behaviors that are conductive to a healthy lifestyle in general. A total of 2237 relevant articles were identified through a literature search, 21 of which were included in this review. Articles involving studies in only children, animal studies, studies on eating disorders, studies with specific types of diets that were clearly unrelated to health issues and studies conducted for marketing purposes were excluded. A variety studies have indicated that personality traits affect both the eating habits and types of diets chosen by individuals, including the preference for healthy or unhealthy foods. The analysis of personality traits indicated that conscientiousness is associated with healthy eating and maintaining health-promoting habits in general. Openness is positively associated with variety in food consumption and negatively associated with "food neophobia". Agreeableness is associated with low meat consumption. Extraversion is associated primarily with the consumption of sweet and salty foods, meat and soft drinks. Finally, neurotic and emotionally unstable people appear to have emotional dietary patterns, which are associated with unhealthy eating habits, such as relatively low fruit and vegetable consumption, and high sugar and saturated fat consumption. However, contradictory results have been found among studies. Interpretation of these results should be weighed against the different cultural environments in which the studies were taken place, and the extremely high heterogeneity among the instruments used to measure personality and eating habits. Future research should clarify whether personality influences eating habits in specific populations, such as individuals with eating disorders.
 
 Received: 16 October 2023 / Accepted: 20 February 2024 / Published: 5 March 2024

Navigating Weight Management with Stevia: Insights into Glycemic Control

Stevia is a natural sweetener that has gained attention as a potential sugar substitute for glycemic control and weight management. Extensive research has shown that high sugar consumption is linked to obesity, dental caries, and other health issues. Stevia, derived from the Stevia rebaudiana plant, offers sweetness without calories and has a favorable glycemic profile. Studies have demonstrated its effectiveness in regulating blood glucose levels and reducing overall sugar and caloric intake. Consumer attitudes suggest a positive reception of Stevia as a sugar substitute among health-conscious individuals. However, further research is needed to understand its long-term effects and consumer sentiments. Future investigations should prioritize human clinical trials, targeted studies in diabetic populations, and exploration of Stevia’s interaction with gut microbiota, among other aspects. Stevia shows promise as a health-conscious alternative in glycemic control and weight management.

Assessment of the state of actual nutrition in the population of the Russian Federation

Introduction. There was conducted the study of the actual nutrition in the population of the Russian Federation in 2017–2021, including a study of its trend and compliance with recommended rational standards.
 Materials and methods. The study used information from the Federal State Statistics Service (Rosstat) on consumption in population of the Russian Federation of the main food groups in households in 2017–2021. The annual representative sample was forty seven thousand eight hundred households. A method used to analyze time series of consumption of basic food products and a comparison of actual nutrition with recommended rational standards was carried out for the whole country, Federal districts, and constituent entities of the Federation.
 Results. In the Russian Federation in 2021, compared to 2017, consumption of most major food groups decreased. Consumption of meat and meat products increased by 6.8%, eggs by 1.3%. Consumption of fish and fish products remained at the same level. The analysis shows a decline in the consumption of bread and bakery products in all federal districts, with the exception of the Far East (an increase of 1.6%); potatoes, vegetable oil, with the exception of the Far East (an increase of 0.8%). At the same time, there is an increase in the consumption of meat and meat products in all federal districts, with the exception of the Far Eastern (decrease by 13.6%). For other product groups, consumption variations were noted.
 Below the recommended rational norms, the Russian population consumes fish and fish products, potatoes, bread, and bakery products, milk and dairy products, vegetables, fruits and berries, eggs, and vegetable oil. At the same time, excessive consumption of sugar (3.8 times higher than the norm), meat and meat products (27% higher than the norm) were noted.
 In the Federal Districts, consumption of most major food groups is below the recommended rational standards. In all federal districts, consumption of meat and meat products, sugar and confectionery products has increased.
 Significant differences have been established in the compliance of consumption levels with recommended rational standards by the population of the constituent entities of the Russian Federation in 2021. In most regions of the Russian Federation, high consumption of meat and meat products by the population is noted. 
 All regions of the Federation have high consumption of sugar and confectionery products.
 Limitations. This study is limited by the size of the representative sample, which was 47.8 thousand households.
 Conclusion. The consequence of an irrational nutrition structure is a violation of the nutritional status, which is expressed in an increase in the prevalence among the population in recent years of such alimentary-dependent pathologies as obesity, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and a number of others.

Determinants of polycystic ovary syndrome: A matched case-control study.

Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a multifaceted endocrine disorder of women of reproductive age with a multifactorial aetiology. Despite much research, there is still inconclusive data on the impact of dietary, lifestyle and socio-economic factors on PCOS aetiology. Thus, the present study explored the association of PCOS with diet, eating behaviour, other lifestyle and socio-economic factors. A matched-pair case-control study was conducted on 150 women with PCOS and 150 healthy controls. Information on diet, eating behaviour and physical activity, and also anthropometric and socio-economic data were collected through standard questionnaires. The adjusted odds ratios (AmOR) were calculated and reported using conditional multivariable logistic regression. The results showed low education level (AmOR = 8.44; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.63-43.68), high sugar consumption (AmOR = 11.61; 95% CI = 2.05-65.72) along with higher body mass index (BMI) and inactivity to be significantly associated with PCOS. Also, a significant protective effect was found for cognitive dietary restraint (AmOR = 0.79; 95% CI = 0.66-0.93), crude fibre (AmOR = 0.61; 95% CI = 0.45-0.82) and protein intake. Low education status may contribute to higher receptiveness to choosing unhealthy diets and lifestyles, resulting in adiposity and an increased risk of PCOS.

Evaluation of the quality and safety of sugar substitutes

High sugar consumption leads to such socially significant diseases as type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular diseases. The problem of replacing sugar in food products and finished culinary products is always acute for food manufacturers. In the future the demand for intense sweeteners and sugar substitutes is expected to increase, as the demand for dietary preventive, sports and diabetic nutrition products in the Russian Federation is steadily growing. The wide selection of sugar substitutes available on the market is due to their significant economic advantages, high sweetness factor, ease of use and the absence of negative effects on the human body, since they do not contain glucose and do not lead to sharp fluctuations in blood sugar. Their use allows us to create innovative products, take into account the needs of different consumer groups and follow modern requirements for a healthy lifestyle. An important indicator in the production of sugar substitutes is their quality characteristics. The purpose of the research is commodity assessment of the quality of four most popular liquid sugar substitutes for compliance with labeling in accordance with the technical regulations TR CU 021/2012, microbiological indicators, examination of samples for the presence of sweeteners, and preservative content. It has been established that all the studied samples violate the requirements of the current legislation, starting with typos in the declaration of conformity (Slastya-super), ending with unreliable information on the label («Mastershape»TM, «Nosugar», «Sladkiy pshik»TM), excess concentration of preservatives above the permitted limits («Sladkiy pshik»TM) and microbiological purity («Mastershape» and «Nosugar»).

Consequences of positive vs. negative information concerning the amount of sugar consumption on appetite, mood, and visual food cue attention: Findings from two online interventions

BackgroundEating too much sugar is associated with many negative health effects. Two brief online interventions were carried out to investigate whether information about the negative consequences of eating high-sugar food vs. positive consequences of eating low-sugar food can change reported appetite, mood, and visual food cue attention. MethodFor Study I, participants (n = 201) were allocated to one of three groups: Two groups were asked to list either the negative consequences of high-sugar consumption (negative focus) or the positive consequences of low-sugar consumption (positive focus). The third group carried out a control task (writing a shopping list). For Study II, 200 participants took part in a quiz with questions focusing on either positive, negative, or neutral consequences of high vs. low sugar consumption. Participants evaluated their appetite and mood before and after all interventions (list, quiz) and additionally completed a visual probe task with images depicting high vs. low-sugar food. ResultsIn Study I, the positive focus increased appetite for low-sugar food. The negative focus reduced participants' positive mood but did not change reported appetite. In Study II, all quiz conditions decreased appetite for high-sugar foods but did not affect mood. None of the interventions influenced visual attention to the food images. ConclusionFocusing on negative consequences of a high-sugar diet is less pleasant and is less effective in changing people's appetite than considering the positive aspects of a low-sugar diet. Thus, future interventions should instead spotlight the positive outcomes of a healthy diet.

Added Sugars Consumption Decreased Iron and Zinc Intake among Children Aged 24-59 Months in Central Java

Background: High sugar consumption was found among children in Indonesia. Excessive intake of added sugars was predicted to cause micronutrient dilution, a negative potential effect compromising micronutrient intake such as iron and zinc. Objectives: This study examined the association between added sugar consumption and iron and zinc intake among children aged 24-59 months. Methods: This study was a secondary data analysis of the 2014 Total Diet Study in Central Java Province. The subjects were 394 children aged 24-59 months. Dietary intake and sociodemographic data were assessed using the 24-hour food recall and household questionnaire. Added sugars consumption was classified into six cut-offs based on its contribution to daily energy (%E), namely: C1 (<5%E), C2 (5%E - <10%E), C3 (10%E - <15%E), C4 (15%E - <20%E), C5 (20%E - 25%E), and C6 (>25%E). Results: 48% of subjects had added sugar intake exceeding the WHO recommendation. Subjects with iron and zinc intake below the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) were 15.2% and 24.1%, respectively. As the added sugar consumption increased, iron and zinc intake decreased significantly (p<0.05). This study found a significant decrease in the intake of iron occurred at added sugar consumption ≥20%E (C5 and above) while decreasing the intake of zinc at added sugar consumption ≥15%E (C4 and above) (p<0,05). Conclusions: Added sugar consumption had an inverse association with iron and zinc intake among children aged 24-59 months, which showed the occurrence of micronutrient dilution.

The Possibility of Artificial Sweeteners Replacing Added Sugar in the Diet of High Sugar Consumption Patients with Cardiovascular Disease

Artificial sweeteners have indeed been the subject of controversy and scrutiny over the past few decades. Originally developed as a supplement and a healthier alternative to added sugar, they were initially created to address shortages in sugar production. However, over time, artificial sweeteners have been mass-marketed primarily based on their low-calorie profile, with a specific focus on targeting individuals who are obese or looking to reduce calorie intake. While artificial sweeteners were designed to offer a sugar-free alternative, they have also been linked to common diseases associated with excessive sugar consumption, including cardiovascular disease (CVD). CVD is a serious condition with a high mortality rate, and numerous studies have explored the potential interrelation between the intake of artificial sweeteners and added sugars and the danger of CVD events’ occurrence. Through carrying out comparisons of the effects which artificial sweeteners and added sugars may induce on CVD, the goal of this article is to investigate the possibility of substituting added sugar with artificial sweeteners for the potential benefit of CVD patients. This is an important area of research given the rising concerns about the health impact of sugar consumption and the desire to find alternative options that can contribute to better heart health.

The Effect of Hydrolyzed Pectin as a Sugar Substitute on The Physicochemical Properties of Pineapple Spread

Pineapple is a fruit that is widely produced in Indonesia. Pineapple can be processed into jam or fruit spread to extend its shelf life. However, jam contains high amount of sugar. High consumption of sugar in the diet can contribute to a high kilojoules diet or known as 'energy dense' and thus contribute to the development of health problems like obesity or diabetes. Sugar has important role in the jam. It binds water molecules to build spreadable product. Pectin can also bind water molecules and cannot be digested by human body but addition of pectin as sugar replacement cannot build spreadable product because pectin molecules is much longer than sucrose. Thus, depolymerization through hydrolysis is needed on pectin molecule. Therefore, the purpose of this research was to determine the effect of different hydrolyzed pectins as substitute for sucrose in a pineapple spread. The physicochemical properties of hydrolyzed pectin (viscosity and color value) and pineapple spreads made from the hydrolyzed pectin (color value, degree of brix, water activity, syneresis and spreadability) were investigated. The results showed that pectin treated with 0.05 M of HCl for 96 h produced the best pineapple spreads based on water activity and percentage of syneresis results. Moreover, pineapple spreads made from pectin treated with 0.05 M of HCl for 96 h has the most similar color and spreadability to the one with sucrose.

Faktor Dominan yang Berhubungan dengan Konsumsi Gula pada Mahasiswa Nonkesehatan

Online food delivery (OFD) related with consumption of sugar. High-sugar foods and drinks consumption may increase the risk of obesity. Consumption high-sugar food and drink is high, especially college student. This study aims to determine the dominant factor related to consumption sugars in UI non-health students. The dependent variable in this study was the consumption of sugars and the independent variables were the frequency of using OFD services, duration of use, preference for foods and beverages high in sugar, gender, pocket money, type of residence, physical activity, stress, and nutritional knowledge. This research is a quantitative study with a cross-sectional design for 125 non-medical students at the University of Indonesia. Data was collected through online questionnaire filling and offline SQ-FFQ interviews. The data obtained were then analyzed by univariate, bivariate using chi-square, and multivariate using multiple logistic regression tests. The results showed that 44.0% of respondents had a high consumption of sugar, i.e ≥50 grams per day. Multivariate analysis showed that the preference for high-sugar foods and drinks was the dominant factor associated with consumption of sugars among UI non-health students. It is necessary to create a nutrition and health education program for college students related to sugars.

Examining The Relationship Between Children's Dietary Patterns and The Development of Dental Problems

Background: This cross-sectional study explores the relationship between children's dietary patterns and the development of dental problems in a sample of 200 participants aged 6 to 12 years. Recognizing the critical role of nutrition in pediatric oral health, the study aims to identify associations between dietary habits, nutrient intake, and prevalent dental issues. Methods: Dietary patterns were assessed using a Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and nutrient intake was analyzed. Clinical examinations by trained dental professionals evaluated dental problems, including caries, enamel erosion, and malocclusions. Statistical analyses, including logistic regression, were employed to examine associations between dietary patterns and dental outcomes. Results: Demographic characteristics indicated a balanced sample with equal gender distribution and representation across age groups. Analysis of dietary patterns revealed mean values within recommended ranges for caloric intake, protein, carbohydrates, fat, and calcium. Significant associations were found between high sugar consumption and dental caries, low calcium intake and enamel erosion, and irregular snacking habits and malocclusions Conclusion: This study underscores the importance of understanding the intricate relationship between children's dietary patterns and dental health. The identified associations provide insights for targeted interventions aimed at reducing sugar consumption, promoting adequate calcium intake, and addressing irregular snacking habits to enhance pediatric oral health.

THE APPLICATION POSSIBILITY OF TAX AS AN INSTRUMENT TO CONTROL THE NEGATIVE IMPACTS OF SWEETENED-BEVERAGE PRODUCTS

Diseases caused by high sugar consumption have become a concern for health problems in various countries. Moreover, in several countries, this disease has become the main cause of the high mortality rate of its population. The high sugar consumption has also led to increased production of sugar-sweetened products. Therefore, efforts are needed to overcome and limit the high consumption and production of non-sugar-friendly products. One of the efforts that the government can implement as a regulator is implementing a tax scheme on sugar-sweetened products. This research aims to review the possibility of implementing taxes to control the negative impacts of beverage products containing sweeteners. This research uses a scoping review method by implementing taxes on products containing sweeteners internationally. The review of this implementation is used as a basis for providing recommendations for its implementation in Indonesia. This research concludes that tax regulations on beverage products containing sweeteners can be used to control people's consumption of sweeteners to maintain their health.

Israel’s repeal of sugar-sweetened beverages tax harms public health

Abstract Issue The consumption of sugar-sweetened beverages (SSBs) exerts negative consequences on both individual and public health. High sugar consumption is associated with the development of non-communicable diseases, increases health care costs, and reduces labor productivity. The WHO and the World Bank thus encourage countries to tax SSBs. Description In January 2023, the Israeli government decided to repeal the SSB tax which had been imposed a year earlier. Our study seeks to attain an in-depth understanding of the reasons for the tax repeal by analyzing such documents as parliamentary protocols and media articles. Results Israel's SSB tax was criticized severely by the ultra-orthodox community, which maintains a tradition of consuming sweets as part of its customs and culture. In the absence of a plan to change the community's habits, the tax was perceived as a politically motivated economic burden. Moreover, this perception was intensified by the ultra-orthodox political leaders, who portrayed the tax as unfairly targeting the ultra-orthodox community. Lessons When considering the implementation of a tax on SSBs, policymakers must ensure that this tax is not perceived as an economic sanction or as a means of targeting a specific community. To this end, it is critical to illustrate that the tax seeks solely to promote public health. The public should thus be informed about the harmful effects of SSBs and about the importance of reducing their consumption. Furthermore, this information should be adapted to different sectors and conveyed through various means. In this respect, it is particularly important to understand the attitudes and potential conflicts of closed communities and to obtain the support of community leaders. Key messages • To successfully implement an SSB tax, health authorities must clarify that the tax is a public health tool, not an economic or political sanction. • Policy makers should endeavor to convince all communities to support and accept the transition to healthier beverages before taxing SSBs.

Associations of adolescents’ diet and meal patterns with school performance in the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986: A Mendelian randomisation study

BackgroundSeveral observational studies indicate that dietary habits in children and adolescents are associated with school performance. These associations are heavily confounded by socio-economic characteristics, such as household income and parents’ educational attainment, amongst other factors. The objective of this study was to explore the association between diet and school performance in adolescents from the Northern Finland Birth Cohort 1986 (NFBC1986). MethodsDietary and school performance data were collected using self-reported questionnaires from adolescents in the NFBC1986 cross-sectional, 16-year follow-up study. In this work we derived exploratory factors for the dietary variables, frequency of skipping main meals and school performance variables, performed genome-wide association studies (GWAS) against these factors to obtain genetic association data and conducted one-sample and two-sample Mendelian randomisation (MR) analyses using individual level data for up to 9220 adolescents in NFBC1986 and GWAS results from external cohorts. We report observational and MR effects of diet on school performance and cognition-related phenotypes. ResultsThe observational study and the one-sample Mendelian randomisation analysis showed that high fat, salt and sugar (HFSS) consumption was associated with poor school performance in general/science subjects (−0.080, −0.128 to −0.033) and staple food consumption with better school performance in general/science subjects (0.071, 0.024 to 0.119) and physical education (0.065, 0.021 to 0.110). Findings from our two-sample MR analysis identified dietary principal components described best as whole brain bread, wheat, cheese, oat cereal and red wine to be associated with higher educational attainment and other cognition-related phenotypes. ConclusionUsing genetics, we highlighted the potential role of HFSS food consumption and consumption of the components of a staple food diet for school performance. However, further research is required to find conclusive evidence that could support a causal role of diet on school performance.

Racial discrimination, self-efficacy, and oral health behaviours in adolescents.

To examine the mediation effect of discrimination on the association of self-efficacy and oral health behaviours among adolescents. A cross sectional study of adolescents aged 12 to 18 years who were recruited from the University outpatient dental clinic were asked to complete a questionnaire consisting of: demographics (12 items), oral health behaviours (7 items), general self-efficacy (10 items) and self-efficacy for self-care (SESS, 15 items). Perceived discrimination was assessed if the adolescent had ever been treated unfairly based on their race. Perceived discrimination was assessed if the adolescent had ever been treated unfairly based on their race. Using pathway analyses, the relationship between oral health behaviours, self-efficacy, and discrimination was explored. Mediation and hierarchal logistic regression analyses were conducted. Of 252 participants, mean (SD) age was 14 (1.8) years old. 60% were female, 81% were born in Canada, 56% identified themselves as White, and 20% perceived discrimination. Mean score of all task-specific self-efficacies were significantly different within respective oral health behaviour categories (P-value <0.001). Of demographics, age and ethnicity (White) were significantly associated with discrimination (OR = 1.25: 95% CI; 1.06-1.48 and OR = 0.29: 95% CI; 0.15-0.55, respectively). Perceived discrimination was positively associated with higher sugar consumption and mediate the association between diet self-efficacy and adolescent's dietary behaviour. Significant mediation effect of perceived discrimination on the association of diet specific self-efficacy and diet oral health behaviour was observed. Oral health behaviours were self-reported which may have influenced the results.

Obesity, Insulin Resistance, Caries, and Periodontitis: Syndemic Framework.

(1) Background: To investigate the grouping of obesity and insulin resistance with caries and periodontitis from a syndemic perspective through pathways of socioeconomic inequalities, smoking, alcohol, and high sugar consumption in adolescence. (2) Methods: The population-based RPS Cohort study, São Luís, Brazil, in ages 18-19 years (n = 2515) was used. The outcomes were the grouping of pbesity and Insulin Resistance Phenotype (latent variable formed by Triglycerides/HDL ratio, TyG index, and VLDL) and the Chronic Oral Disease Burden (latent variable comprising caries, bleeding on probing, probing depth ≥ 4 mm, clinical attachment level ≥ 3 mm, and visible plaque index ≥ 15%). Socioeconomic Inequalities influencing the Behavioral Risk Factors (latent variable formed by added sugar, smoking, and alcohol) were analyzed using structural equation modeling. (3) Results: Socioeconomic Inequalities were associated with the Chronic Oral Disease Burden [Standardized Coefficient (SC) = 0.222, p < 0.001]. Behavioral Risk Factors were associated with increased Chronic Oral Disease Burden (SC = 0.103; p = 0.013). Obesity was associated with the Insulin Resistance Phenotype (SC = 0.072; p < 0.001) and the Chronic Oral Disease Burden (SC = 0.066; p = 0.005). The Insulin Resistance Phenotype and the Chronic Oral Disease Burden were associated (SC = 0.053; p = 0.032). (4) Conclusion: The grouping of obesity and early events of diabetes with caries and periodontitis call for a syndemic approach in adolescence.

Metabolo-epigenetic interplay provides targeted nutritional interventions in chronic diseases and ageing.

Epigenetic modifications are chemical modifications that affect gene expression without altering DNA sequences. In particular, epigenetic chemical modifications can occur on histone proteins -mainly acetylation, methylation-, and on DNA and RNA molecules -mainly methylation-. Additional mechanisms, such as RNA-mediated regulation of gene expression and determinants of the genomic architecture can also affect gene expression. Importantly, depending on the cellular context and environment, epigenetic processes can drive developmental programs as well as functional plasticity. However, misbalanced epigenetic regulation can result in disease, particularly in the context of metabolic diseases, cancer, and ageing. Non-communicable chronic diseases (NCCD) and ageing share common features including altered metabolism, systemic meta-inflammation, dysfunctional immune system responses, and oxidative stress, among others. In this scenario, unbalanced diets, such as high sugar and high saturated fatty acids consumption, together with sedentary habits, are risk factors implicated in the development of NCCD and premature ageing. The nutritional and metabolic status of individuals interact with epigenetics at different levels. Thus, it is crucial to understand how we can modulate epigenetic marks through both lifestyle habits and targeted clinical interventions -including fasting mimicking diets, nutraceuticals, and bioactive compounds- which will contribute to restore the metabolic homeostasis in NCCD. Here, we first describe key metabolites from cellular metabolic pathways used as substrates to "write" the epigenetic marks; and cofactors that modulate the activity of the epigenetic enzymes; then, we briefly show how metabolic and epigenetic imbalances may result in disease; and, finally, we show several examples of nutritional interventions - diet based interventions, bioactive compounds, and nutraceuticals- and exercise to counteract epigenetic alterations.