Inadequate Iron Intake Research Articles

Deficiency of Energy and Nutrient and Gender Differences among Chinese Adults: China Nutrition and Health Survey (2015-2017).

Half of Chinese adults face the double burden of overweight/obesity and micronutrient deficiencies, and nearly 40% of them are severely overweight/obese or have micronutrient deficiencies. This study used the data from China Nutrition and Health Survey (CNHS) from 2015 to 2017 to estimate the prevalence of inadequate dietary micronutrient intake (including vitamin A, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin C, cCalcium, iron and sodium) in Chinese adults and further determine the differences in micronutrient intake by gender, age and BMI. A total of 61,768 subjects were included in this study, of which 33,262 (54%) were female. The intake of energy and all macronutrients decreased with age, and the intake was higher in men than in women. Inadequate energy intake occurs in adults of all ages. In terms of nutrient intake, women had a higher rate of insufficient carbohydrate intake than men in all age groups. Inadequate protein intake was more common in women aged 18-49 years (60.9%) than in men. Compared with women, men had a higher rate of vitamin B2 intake. Insufficient vitamin B3 intake was more common in women aged 18-49 years (35.6%), men aged 65-79 years (39.7%) and men aged 80 years and above (47.9%). In all age groups, insufficient vitamin C intake is higher in women than in men-up to 85.8 percent in women aged 80 years old and above. Compared with men in the same age group, insufficient intake of calcium and iron is more obvious in women. Women have significantly higher rates of inadequate intake of calcium, iron and sodium than men. In the analysis of correlations between BMI or demographic data and micronutrient intakes, the likelihood of micronutrient intakes being insufficient was higher in the central and western regions in all age groups compared to the eastern regions. The risk of insufficient micronutrient intake was higher in obese men and women aged 18-49 years and 50-64 years. Underweight and overweight women in the 65-79 age group were more likely to have inadequate micronutrient intake. Obese women over 80 years of age were less likely to have inadequate micronutrient intake. No significant difference was found between urban and rural areas for each age group.

Bioavailability of Australian pre-schooler iron intakes at specific eating occasions is low

PurposePoor bioavailability may contribute to iron deficiency among children in high-resource countries, but iron bioavailability of Australian pre-schooler diets is unknown. This study aimed to estimate the bioavailability of Australian pre-schooler iron intakes across the day and by eating occasions to identify optimal timing for intervention, by using five previously developed algorithms, and to estimate the proportion of children with intakes of absorbable iron below the requirements.MethodsDietary data of children aged 2 to < 6 y (n = 812) from the 2011–12 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey were collected via two 24-h recalls. Usual food and nutrient intakes were estimated via Multiple Source Method. Phytate, polyphenol, and heme iron values were sourced from international databases or the literature. Five previously published algorithms were applied to observed dietary data to estimate iron bioavailability and calculate the prevalence of children with intakes of absorbable iron below requirements.ResultsPre-schooler daily iron bioavailability was low (2.7–10.5%) and corresponded to intakes of 0.18–0.75 mg/d of absorbable iron. The proportion of children with inadequate intakes of absorbable iron ranged between 32 and 98%. For all eating occasions, dinner offered iron of the greatest bioavailability (4.2–16.4%), while iron consumed at breakfast was of the lowest bioavailability (1.2–5.6%).ConclusionFuture strategies are required to improve intakes of bioavailable iron for pre-schoolers to prevent the risk of deficiency. These strategies could include the encouragement of concomitant consumption of enhancers of iron absorption with iron-rich sources, particularly at breakfast.

Association of Risk Factors with Female Pattern Hair Loss

Introduction: Female Pattern Hair Loss (FPHL) is one of the main causes of hair loss in adult women and has a major impact on individual’s quality of life. It evolves from the progressive miniaturization of follicles that lead to a subsequent decrease of the hair density, leading to a non-scarring diffuse alopecia. In spite of the high frequency of the disease and the relevance of its psychological impact, its pathogenesis is not yet fully understood, being influenced by genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Objective: To evaluate etiological factors associated with female pattern hair loss. Materials &amp; Methods: This was a hospital-based case control study, conducted in the Department of Dermatology &amp; Venereology, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University (BSMMU) from March, 2021 to August, 2022. In this study, total 100 females aged 18 to 45 years were enrolled. Among them, 30 females had history of hair loss &gt;6 months, presented to outpatient department, BSMMU were included as case &amp; 70 healthy females who had no history of hair loss included as control according to inclusion &amp; exclusion criteria. Diagnosis of FPHL was made clinically &amp; Ludwig classifications were used to assess the degree of hair loss. Information on possible risk factors for FPHL was collected using a questionnaire interview. Result: The mean age of the patients with FPHL was 41.0±7.77 years with majority belongs to &gt;40 years of age group &amp; their mean duration of hair loss was 26.3±12.0 months. Among the patients of FPHL, 36.7% had history of inadequate intake of iron containing food, 66.7% had family history of alopecia, 36.7% had history of increased bleeding during their menstruation, 20.0% had multiple (&gt;3) childbirth &amp; 23.3% had hypertension. About 86.7% patients with FPHL had low serum ferritin (&lt;30ng/ml) with mean serum ferritin level was 20.25±16.07ng/ml and 66.7% patients of FPHL had low Hb (&lt;12 µg/l) with mean Hb was 11.47±1.52 µg/l. In the multivariate logistic regression analysis significant association found with FPHL were age (OR 2.013, 95% CI 0.672-3.714), family history of alopecia (OR1.231, 95% CI 0.162-1.991) and lower serum ferritin level (OR1.090, 95% CI 1.043-1.139). Conclusion: Age, family history of alopecia, lower serum ferritin may be implicated as risk factors for female pattern hair loss. Medicine Today 2023 Vol.36 (1): 7-11

Assessment of the prevalence of inadequate iron intakes in premenopausal females based on the reference values of the European Food Safety Authority using cross-sectional food consumption data

BackgroundThe iron intake requirement distribution for premenopausal females is not symmetric, which invalidates the EAR cut-point approach for assessing the prevalence of iron inadequacy. Therefore, Beaton’s Full Probability Approach (PA) must be used. Although the PA requires information on the entire iron intake requirement distribution, the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) only provided the EAR (50th percentile), 90th, 95th (population reference intake), and 97.5th percentiles. ObjectivesThis study aimed to reliably estimate the prevalence of iron inadequacy in premenopausal females using the PA, based on the intake requirements established by EFSA, and compare the results with those obtained from the EAR cut-point method. MethodsHabitual iron intakes were calculated using the statistical program to assess dietary exposure with data from 484 females (20–45 y) from the Dutch National Food Consumption Survey 2012–2016. Iron requirements of EFSA (including additionally obtained information) were applied. Results from the PA were compared to results obtained with the EAR cut-point method. Sensitivity analyses examined the impact of lower iron intake distributions on differences in estimated inadequate intakes between PA and EAR cut-point methods. ResultsA 2-fold higher prevalence of iron inadequacy among Dutch premenopausal females was observed when employing the PA compared to the EAR cut-point method, using EFSA’s reference values. Sensitivity analysis showed that the EAR cut-point method could also result in large overestimations for populations with lower intake distributions. ConclusionsThis study provided an example of using the PA method by using additionally derived information on the full requirement distribution underlying EFSA’s reference values. Results showed once more the unsuitability of the EAR cut-point method to calculate the prevalence of iron inadequacy in premenopausal females. Hence, we recommend that institutions deriving dietary reference values provide all the information needed to use the correct method to determine inadequate intakes in the population.

Prevention of Anemia with Iron in Adolescent Girls

This study looked at whether iron supplementation has a role in keeping teenage girls from becoming anemic. Anemia is characterized by a reduction in hemoglobin levels, erythrocyte count, and hematocrit, which impairs the ability of circulating hemoglobin levels and erythrocytes to supply oxygen to bodily tissues. Anemia affects 50–80% of people worldwide. Anemia is more common in teenage girls (15–19 years old) than it is in fertile women (26.9%). Adolescent females are highly susceptible to anemia, which a number of reasons, such as inadequate iron intake, menstruation, and food, can cause. The body needs iron, a micronutrient, to produce hemoglobin. The literature review research technique starts with topic selection and moves on to keyword analysis, with the two keywords being iron and anemia. From 2017 to 2021, articles can be found using Indonesian through the following e-resource databases: Perpusnas, PMC, Ebsco, ProQuest, Mendelay, and Google Scholar. Thirty-four journals were excluded, leaving 111 journals for assessment. The results indicated that iron tablets were utilized in five articles, while additional guava fruit juice, vitamin C, folic acid, and protein were used in two articles. One study indicated that tempeh could raise adolescent girls' hemoglobin levels before and after the intervention, helping prevent anemia. The efficacious delivery of iron can effectively avert anemia. One way to lower the prevalence of anemia is to prevent it by eating foods high in iron and administering blood-added tablets (TTD).

Iron Insights: Exploring Age-Specific Variations In Anaemia Prevalence In Islamabad

Background &amp; Introduction: Blood, a specialized connective tissue, facilitates the vital transport of oxygen, carbon dioxide, minerals, hormones, and salts throughout the body. Anemia, characterized by reduced oxygen-carrying capacity, often stems from factors such as diminished red blood cell (RBC) synthesis or excessive blood loss. Notably, iron deficiency stands out as a prominent cause, particularly among females of reproductive age, due to factors like inadequate dietary iron intake and menstrual blood loss. Objectives: This study aims to assess the prevalence of iron deficiency anemia (IDA) in both males and females across different age groups. Specifically, we seek to determine the frequency of IDA and its distribution among age cohorts spanning 6-12 years, 13-19 years, and 20-50 years. Methodology: Employing a cross-sectional study design, we surveyed a population of 2071 individuals, selecting a sample of 3[1]24 participants through non-probability convenient sampling methods. Descriptive statistics, facilitated by SPSS, guided our analysis. Hematological parameters including hemoglobin (HB) levels, RBC count, mean corpuscular volume (MCV), and mean corpuscular hemoglobin (MCH) were evaluated to ascertain the hematological status of the study cohort. Results: Our findings reveal notable trends in IDA prevalence across age groups. Among participants aged 16-30 years, IDA incidence stood at 51%, whereas the 31-35 years age group exhibited a 26% prevalence, and the 46-60 years age group recorded a 23% incidence of IDA. Additionally, our analysis indicates a higher prevalence of IDA among females, constituting 65% of all IDA cases, particularly pronounced in the reproductive age bracket of 16-30 years. Conclusion: The study underscores a gender-based discrepancy in IDA prevalence, with females exhibiting a higher incidence compared to males. Notably, females within the reproductive age range of 16-30 years emerge as a particularly vulnerable demographic. These findings emphasize the importance of targeted interventions to address iron deficiency, especially among at-risk populations.

Intake of micronutrients implicated in depression amongst young adults consuming vegetarian diets: a secondary analysis of the 2011-12 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey

Major depressive disorder (‘depression’) is significantly more prevalent amongst young adults in Australia relative to older ages. The inefficacy of current treatment options for many individuals(1) warrants investigation of additional approaches to alleviating the burden of this illness. Incidentally, diet often becomes unhealthier during the transition from adolescence to young adulthood(2). This can result in poorer micronutrient consumption, and there is a growing body of evidence indicating that an inverse relationship exists between intake of certain micronutrients and depressive symptoms(3). Given this, diet may be an important modifiable risk factor or adjunctive means of ameliorating depression for young adults. Young adult vegetarians in particular have an increased risk of some micronutrient deficiencies which have been implicated in depression(4). In combination, their age and dietary choice suggest they may be especially vulnerable to depression and therefore benefit from clear guidance to adequately meet their micronutrient requirements. The present study aimed to elucidate the need for such guidance by comparing the proportions of vegetarian and omnivorous young adult participants in the 2011-12 National Nutrition and Physical Activity Survey (NNPAS) who had inadequate intakes of micronutrients implicated in depression. The NNPAS collected the most recent nationally-representative data pertaining to the dietary intake (via two 24-h recalls) of Australians and included 2,397 young adults (18-34 years). Participants who were pregnant, lactating, or who mis-reported intakes according to Goldberg equation-derived cut-off values were excluded (n = 791). The dietary data were used to estimate usual intakes via the Multiple Source Method. Inadequate intakes were identified according to the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) cut-point method for all micronutrients with an EAR except iron, for which the full-probability method was applied. Survey weights allocated for inference to the total Australian population were implemented throughout the analysis. The final sample was composed of 66 vegetarians (did not report any animal tissue consumption) and 1540 omnivores. The mean intake of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids (EPA, DPA, DHA) from both diet and supplementation was significantly lower in vegetarians compared to omnivores (96.3mg/day vs. 264.5mg/day, p&lt;0.001). A significantly greater proportion of vegetarians compared to omnivores had inadequate total B12 (22.7% vs. 1.4%), iron (58.3% vs. 18.9%), selenium (30.8% vs. 3.5%) and zinc (58.8% vs. 33.3%) intakes (all p&lt;0.05). These results suggest that young adult vegetarians are likely to have significantly lower consumption of long-chain omega-3 fatty acids and an increased risk of inadequately consuming vitamin B12, iron, selenium and zinc compared to their omnivorous counterparts. These findings support the notion that young adult vegetarians may have an increased risk of depression from a nutritional standpoint, and therefore stand to benefit from tailored dietary advice on a public and individual level designed to support their mental health.

Immediate postpartum anemia and associated factors at shewarobit health facilities, Amhara, Ethiopia, 2022: a cross sectional study

BackgroundImmediate postpartum anemia occurs when the amount of red blood cell count is reduced or hemoglobin concentration is below 10 g/dl in the immediate postpartum. It occurs primarily due to inadequate iron intake before and during pregnancy and blood loss during delivery. The aim of this study is to assess the proportion of immediate postpartum anemia and associated factors among mothers who gave birth at Shewarobit health facilities; in Amhara, Ethiopia.MethodsInstitutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted from June to September 2022. A systematic random sampling method was employed to select the study participants. The data were collected through interviewer-assisted questions. Data were entered into Epi Data software version 4.6.0.4 and exported to SPSS 21 for analysis, and descriptive statistics were computed. Logistic regression was applied, and P-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant.ResultsThis study was conducted among 307 study participants and, the proportion of immediate postpartum anemia was 41.4% [95% CI: 36.7–46.6]. Having postpartum hemorrhage [AOR = 4.76, 95% CI: 2.44–9.28], not taking iron and folic acid supplementation [AOR = 6.19, 95% CI: 2.69, 14.22], having a prolonged second stage of labor [AOR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.16–5.44], and mid-upper arm circumference < 23 cm [AOR = 2.02, 95% CI: 1.11–3.68] were factors significantly associated with immediate postpartum anemia.ConclusionsThe proportion of immediate postpartum anemia was public problem in Shewarobit health facilities. Following the progress of labor using a partograph, closely monitoring and immediate intervention of PPH, and prevent undernutrition during antenatal care is recommended.

Longitudinal Growth Trajectories in Children with Cow’s Milk Allergy: Effects of Elimination Diet and Post-Termination Period

Introduction: The primary dietary approach for managing cow’s milk allergy (CMA) is the elimination diet. We aimed to compare the growth patterns of children with CMA during and after the elimination diet with healthy peers and identify influencing factors. Methods: We compared 74 CMA children with age-matched healthy peers. Anthropometric data were collected during the third month of cow’s milk elimination (CME) diet (T1), 3 months after diet cessation (T2), and after ≥3 months of normal diet (T3). Control group measurements coincided. Nutrient intake was assessed by a 3-day record, and patient laboratory results were noted at T3. Results: CMA children had consistently lower weight-for-age (WFA) and height-for-age (HFA) z-scores than controls. WtHt z-score of patients was lower than those of the healthy group at T2. HC z-scores of patients were lower than those of the healthy group at T0, T2, and T3. At T3, the HFA z-score of the CME group demonstrated a negative correlation with the duration of the elimination diet (p = 0.045). Inadequate intake of energy, vitamins A, E, B1, B6, C, folic acid, magnesium, and iron was significantly higher in CMA children (p < 0.05). T3 WFA z-score correlated positively with fiber, vitamin B1, magnesium, and iron intake (p < 0.05). T3 WtHt showed a positive moderate correlation with energy, protein, vitamin E, vitamin B1, vitamin B2, vitamin B6, calcium, magnesium, phosphor, iron intake (p < 0.05). Conclusions: Post-elimination diet, children with CMA need sustained monitoring and potentially micronutrient supplementation to match healthy peers’ growth.

The effect of UNIMMAP multiple micronutrient supplements versus iron-folic acid and placebo in anemia reduction among women of reproductive age in Kebribeyah Woreda, Somali Regional State, Ethiopia: a study protocol for a community-based individual RCT

BackgroundWomen of reproductive age (WRA) in developing countries are often at risk of micronutrient deficiencies due to inadequate intakes and excessive losses.ObjectiveThe purpose of this trial is to assess the effectiveness of United Nations International Multiple Micronutrient Antenatal Preparation-Multiple Micronutrient Supplements (UNIMMAP-MMS) versus iron-folic acid (IFA) among WRA in reducing anemia.MethodsThree parallel groups of WRA will participate in a community-based, individually randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled superiority trial. After consent, the sample of 375 mildly or moderately anemic women based on hemoglobin by Hemocue will be randomly assigned across two interventions and one control arm. Trial participants in intervention arms will receive UNIMMAP-MMS or IFA while those in the control arm will receive placebos twice a week for 17 weeks. The primary outcome will be a change in mean hemoglobin (Hb) concentrations. Outcome assessors and study participants will be blinded to the type of supplements and study arm.DiscussionThe World Health Organization (WHO) added UNIMMAP-MMS to its essential medicine lists in 2021 but recommended rigorous study. Several factors in addition to inadequate intakes of iron and folic acid contribute to the high prevalence of anemia among WRA in the Somali region. The findings of this study will provide evidence on the effect of UNIMMAP-MMS and IFA on Hb concentrations and anemia prevalence among anemic WRA.Trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov NCT05682261. Registered on January 12, 2023.

Assessment of risk factors associated with anemia among pregnant women attending the obstetrics and gynecology department in a tertiary care hospital, Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh, India

Background: Anemia in pregnancy is a pervasive health issue, particularly in developing countries. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to assess various socio-demographic factors, nutritional intake, and other risk factors contributing to anemia among pregnant women attending a tertiary care hospital in Prakasam District, Andhra Pradesh, India. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted involving 160 pregnant women. Data were collected on socio-demographic factors (family type, religion, caste, residence, education, socio-economic status, age, occupation), anemia prevalence, antenatal care, birth spacing, nutritional intake (caloric, protein, and iron), and gravida status. Chi-square tests were used for statistical analysis to determine associations between anemia and various risk factors. Results: The study revealed a high prevalence of moderate anemia (74.4%) among the participants. Most women were from nuclear families (75%), lived in rural areas (89.4%), and were predominantly homemakers (83.1%) in the age group of 21–30 years. Nutritional analysis showed 74.6% of women had a calorie intake below 2000 K. Cal/day, 64.7% had a protein intake below 50 g/day, and 87.5% had an iron intake below 20 mg/day. A significant association was found between anemia and factors such as caloric intake (χ²=10.6654, P=0.001092), gravidity (χ²=7.0278, P=0.008025), and iron intake (χ²=27.277, P&lt;0.00001), but not with protein intake (χ²=3.7547, P=0.052658). Conclusion: The study highlights a high prevalence of anemia among pregnant women in the Prakasam District, primarily associated with inadequate caloric and iron intake and increased gravidity. These findings emphasize the need for enhanced nutritional counseling and healthcare interventions focusing on diet and family planning for pregnant women in this region.

An association of deficiencies in balanced dietary practices and inadequate iron and folic acid supplement's intake during pregnancy and increasing risk of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia among Indian women.

Pre-eclampsia or eclampsia is a serious reproductive health problem which can cause maternal, fetal and neonatal morbidity and mortality worldwide. However till the notable reasons of it is not very clear at all. The main essence of the present study was to examine the association between dietary intake, iron and folic acid consumption during pregnancy and the chances of occurrences of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia among Indian women. A cross sectional observational study was performed by using NFHS-5 (2019-21) data. 190,797 ever married women aged between 15-49 years who had a live birth in the past five years preceding the survey were availed for this study. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was carried out to find out the association between dietary and supplementary intake and occurrences of eclampsia. About 3.6% of the sample women had pre-eclampsia or eclampsia. The results of the study indicated that the likelihood of the prevalence of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia was significantly higher among those women who did not take adequate diet and as well as not consumed iron and folic acid tablet or syrup for at least 90 days during pregnancy compared to those women who took adequate diet and iron and folic acid supplementation even after controlling some maternal, health and lifestyle, socio-economic and demographic characteristics. Integrated and quality ANC services can only ensure adequate nutritional intake in terms of healthy and balanced diet. So, quality ANC services and with this micronutrients intake could be an effective way to reduce the prevalence of pre-eclampsia or eclampsia.

A study of effect of iron deficiency anemia on glycosylated hemoglobin in non-diabetic patients

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a rapidly increasing global health concern, having a substantial impact on morbidity and mortality. Glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) is the primary measure of diabetes control, reflecting glycemic levels over the past 3 months. However, hemoglobin (Hb) abnormalities, such as those seen in iron deficiency anemia (IDA), can theoretically affect HbA1c levels. IDA, affecting over 30% of the global population, results from inadequate iron intake, hemorrhage, or poor iron absorption, leading to reduced Hb production. This study aims to evaluate the impact of IDA on HbA1c levels in non-diabetic patients, providing insights into accurate HbA1c interpretation in anemic patients. Aims and Objectives: The study aimed to determine the impact of IDA on HbA1c levels in non-diabetic individuals. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over 6 months at Trichy SRM Medical College Hospital and Research Center. There were a total of 100 IDA patients and 100 age- and sex-matched healthy controls. Hb levels below 10 g/dL with a microcytic image suggestive of iron deficiency, postprandial blood sugar (PPBS) levels below 140 mg/dL following an oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT), and fasting blood sugar (FBS) levels below 100 mg/dL were the inclusion criteria. Exclusion criteria included Hb levels above 10 g/dL, altered FBS or PPBS values post-OGTT, diagnosed Type 2 diabetes mellitus, individuals younger than 18 years, and those with conditions such as hemoglobinopathies, hemolytic anemia, hypothyroidism, pregnancy, or abnormal renal function tests. Ethical approval and informed consent were obtained. Data collection included demographics, medical history, and laboratory investigations. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 26, with t-tests, mean, and standard deviation (SD) for association analysis, and Chi-square tests for sex comparisons. Correlations were assessed through t-test. The significance level was kept at 0.05. Results: The study confirmed that both groups met the inclusion criteria for non-diabetic status. The control group exhibited normal Hb levels, whereas the study group had Hb levels indicative of IDA. General and systemic examination findings were normal in both groups. Significant differences were observed across all measured parameters, with Hb levels, serum ferritin, mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular Hb, mean corpuscular Hb concentration, and red cell distribution width significantly lower in the study group. HbA1c levels were significantly elevated in the study group compared to the control group (5.87 ± 1.25 vs. 4.97 ± 1.59, P &lt; 0.001), supporting the hypothesis that IDA is associated with elevated HbA1c levels in non-diabetic patients. Conclusion: The study’s findings align with previous research indicating that IDA leads to elevated HbA1c levels. The prolonged erythrocyte survival and altered Hb glycation processes in IDA are likely contributors to this elevation. These results emphasize the need to consider anemia status when interpreting HbA1c values to avoid misdiagnosis and inappropriate management of diabetes. Clinicians should ensure comprehensive evaluations, including iron status assessments when encountering unexpectedly high HbA1c levels in non-diabetic individuals.

Factors associated with the Physical Fitness of Lactating Mothers in an Urban Area

An urban area is characterized by increased sedentary lifestyle (SL) and reduced physical fitness (PF) among various populations, including lactating mothers. Adequate physical fitness is essential for lactating mothers to support breastmilk production during the lactating period. This study used an observational method with a cross-sectional design that aims to analyze factors associated with physical fitness among lactating mothers in an urban area. This study included 61 lactating mothers selected through systematic random sampling in Magelang City. Physical fitness status was assessed by a six-minute walk test. Trained enumerators collected data using validated instruments for each variable. Data were analyzed using Chisquare and Fisher’s exact tests. The results showed that most subjects had moderate PF (68.3%), while only 34.9% engaged in vigorous physical activity. In addition, only 3.2% of subjects were well-hydrated, and a significant portion had inadequate calcium (76.2%) and iron (61.9%) intake. However, no significant correlation was found between physical activity, nutritional intake (total energy, calcium, and iron), hydration status, and physical fitness among the lactating mothers (p &gt; 0.05). Therefore, future research should consider incorporating additional variables such as biochemistry and environmental factors.

Estimating food consumption, micronutrient intake and the contribution of large-scale food fortification to micronutrient adequacy in Tanzania.

To assess the potential contribution of large-scale food fortification (LSFF) towards meeting dietary micronutrient requirements in Tanzania. We used household food consumption data from the National Panel Survey 2014-15 to estimate fortifiable food vehicle coverage and consumption (standardised using the adult female equivalent approach) and the prevalence at risk of inadequate apparent intake of five micronutrients included in Tanzania's fortification legislation. We modelled four LSFF scenarios: no fortification, status quo (i.e. compliance with current fortification contents) and full fortification with and without maize flour fortification. Tanzania. A nationally representative sample of 3290 Tanzanian households. The coverage of edible oils and maize and wheat flours (including products of wheat flour and oil such as bread and cakes) was high, with 91 percent, 88 percent and 53 percent of households consuming these commodities, respectively. We estimated that vitamin A-fortified oil could reduce the prevalence of inadequate apparent intake of vitamin A (retinol activity equivalent) from 92 percent without LSFF to 80 percent with LSFF at current fortification levels. Low industry LSFF compliance of flour fortification limits the contribution of other micronutrients, but a hypothetical full fortification scenario shows that LSFF of cereal flours could substantially reduce the prevalence at risk of inadequate intakes of iron, zinc, folate and vitamin B12. The current Tanzania LSFF programme likely contributes to reducing vitamin A inadequacy. Policies that support increased compliance could improve the supply of multiple nutrients, but the prominence of small-scale maize mills restricts this theoretical benefit.

A Landscape of Micronutrient Dietary Intake by 15- to 65-Years-Old Urban Population in 8 Latin American Countries: Results From the Latin American Study of Health and Nutrition.

Latin American countries have shifted from traditional diets rich in micronutrients to a Westernized diet rich in high energy-dense foods and low in micronutrients. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of adequate micronutrient intakes in urban populations of 8 Latin American countries. Micronutrient dietary intake data were collected from September 2014 to August 2015 from 9216 men and women aged 15.0 to 65.0 years living in urban populations of 8 Latin American countries. Dietary intake was collected using two 24-hour recalls on nonconsecutive days. Micronutrient adequacy of intake was calculated using the Estimated Average Requirement cut-off method. In general terms, the prevalence of inadequate intake of thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folate, cobalamin, iron, phosphorus, copper, and selenium ranged from 0.4% to 9.9%. In contrast, the prevalence of inadequacy of pyridoxine, zinc, vitamin C, and vitamin A ranged from 15.7% to 51.5%. The nutrients with a critical prevalence of inadequacy were magnesium (80.5%), calcium (85.7%), and vitamin D (98.2%). The highest prevalence of inadequate intakes was observed in the low educational level, participants with overweight/obesity, in men, and varies according to socioeconomic status. There is an urgent need to define direct regional actions and strategies in Latin America aimed at improving micronutrient adequacy, either through staple food fortification programs, agronomic biofortification, or food policies that facilitate economic access to micronutrient-rich foods.

Nutrient intake, oral symptoms, and oral health-related quality of life among antenatal mothers in Sarawak

Introduction: This study aimed to determine the association between nutrient intake, oral symptoms, and oral health-related quality of life (OHRQoL) among antenatal mothers in the Sri Aman district, Sarawak. Methods: A total of 124 antenatal mothers in the second and third trimesters, through systematic random sampling, participated in this cross-sectional study. A validated selfadministered questionnaire was used to collect their socioeconomic and obstetric profiles, perceived oral health status, and OHRQoL. Three days 24-hour diet recall assessment involving two weekdays and one weekend day was used for nutrient intake assessment. Results: Most mothers (75.0%) had at least one oral symptom: cavitated tooth (51.6%), bleeding gum (32.3%), halitosis (27.4%), gum pain (13.7%), toothache (12.1%), and swollen gum (6.5%). Most mothers also had inadequate intakes of energy, vitamin D, iodine, calcium, zinc, fluoride, and iron. The most affected OHRQoL domain was psychological discomfort, followed by functional limitation and physical pain. Nutrient intake was not significantly different between antenatal mothers with and without oral symptoms. Antenatal mothers with at least one oral symptom, presence of toothache, cavitated tooth, bleeding gum, and halitosis had significantly lower OHRQoL. Conclusion: Most antenatal mothers had inadequate nutrient intake, particularly vitamin D and calcium. Nutrient intake was not significantly associated with oral symptoms. The oral symptoms of dental caries and periodontal disease were prevalent; and the presence of toothache, cavitated tooth, bleeding gum, and halitosis were associated with poor OHRQoL.

The Effect of High Parity on the Occurrence of Anaemia in Pregnant Women.

To compare high-para and low-para women with respect to haematological findings, determinants, and consequences secondary to anaemia. Descriptive cohort study. Place and Duration of the Study: Maternity and Child Hospital, Hail, Saudi Arabia and Specialist Care Hospital (private), Islamabad, Pakistan, from April 2022 to April 2023. The study population comprised of pregnant women in the last trimester, with the exception of those women who had more than one fetus and history of haematological disease. Purposive non-probability sampling technique was adopted. Hospital data were retrieved retrospectively for the past obstetrical, contraception usage, and supplement history. Blood parameters, type of delivery, and maternofetal complications were noted down. For qualitative-variable and quantitative-variable comparisons, Chi-square test and t-test were applied, respectively. Significance level was kept at p ≤0.05. The frequency of severe anaemia in high-para was 52%. High parity and anaemia had a significant dose-response relationship (p <0.05). There was a significant difference (p <0.05) in blood parameters between high-para and low-para groups. Main determinants identified for anaemia were lack of intake of iron-rich food (36%) followed by inadequate intake of oral iron (25%). Preterm birth (68%) and post-partum haemorrhage (96%) were significantly associated (p <0.05) with high parity. There was a significantly high proportion (83%) of high-para women with more than 3 cesarean deliveries and admissions in ICU. High parity and anaemia had a significant dose-response relationship. High parity was the main determinant of maternal and fetal admissions in ICU. Parity, Comparison, Maternal anaemia, Haematological findings, Diet, Contraception, Cost-effective.

Inadequate intake of energy and nutrients: A comparative cross-sectional study between sport and nonsport science university students of southern Ethiopia.

This study aimed to investigate and compare the energy and selected nutrient intakes of sport science and nonsport science university students of Southern Ethiopia. Multiple-day dietary data were collected from 166 university students (76 sport science and 90 nonsport sciences). Average daily energy and nutrient intake, and inadequate intakes were calculated using NutriSurvey (NS). There were significant differences (p < .05) in the median intakes of energy, total carbohydrate, and vitamin B1 between female students from the sport science and nonsport science groups, but only the median intake of iron was significantly different (p < .05) between the male sport and nonsport science student groups. The prevalence of inadequate intake of vitamin B1 was significantly (p < .05) higher in the male and female from the nonsport science groups compared to the male and female student groups in the sport science, respectively, whereas the prevalence of inadequate iron intake by the male sport science students' group was significantly (p < .05) higher compared to their counterparts. Similarly, the prevalence of inadequate energy among the females from the sport science group was significantly (p < .05) higher compared to the female students from the nonsport science department group. The prevalence of inadequate intake of dietary energy and the majority of the nutrients (protein, fat, vitamin A, B1, B2, and magnesium) were high (>50%) in selected university students. The energy and majority of nutrient intakes by the students in the selected universities of southern Ethiopia were suboptimal. Therefore, activities that will improve the dietary intake of university students should include weekly meal plan revision considering their average recommended nutrient intake (RNI).

Optimization of a formula to develop iron-dense novel composite complementary flour with a reduced phytate/minerals molar ratio from dabi teff-field pea-based blends using a D-optimal mixture design.

Iron deficiency anemia is one of the major public health problems in children associated with the inadequate intake of bioavailable iron. Thus, this research was aimed at incorporating dabi teff, an underutilized/forgotten crop, into other pre-processed local food crops, viz., germinated maize, roasted barley, roasted field pea, dehulled oats, and linseed, to develop optimized iron-dense novel composite complementary flour with a reduced phytate/minerals molar ratio. Nutrisurvey software was employed to define ranges, and they were constrained at 20-35% dabi teff, 0-30% field pea, and 5-20% maize, while the remaining were kept constant at 25% barley, 15% oats, and 5% linseed. Eleven experimental runs were generated from the six mixture components using Stat-Ease Design Expert® software version 11, D-optimal. Inductively coupled plasma-optical emission spectrometry was used to determine micronutrients. 'Scheffe' regression was used to fit and test the model's adequacy, and numerical multi-response optimization was performed using the Design Expert® to identify the optimal points. Dabi teff had a significantly higher (p < 0.05) iron content at 86.5 mg/100 g, iron density at 24.53 mg/100 kcal, and calcium content at 123.59 mg/100 g. The new formulations had a significantly higher iron content (3.31-4.36 times), iron density (3.25-4.27 times), and calcium content (1.49-1.58 times), as compared to the control flour, and fulfilled FAO/WHO recommendations. The optimal formula was identified at 34.66% dabi teff, 25% barley, 15% oats, 15.34% field pea, 5% linseed, and 5% maize flour ratios, with response values at the overall optimization as 32.21 mg/100 g iron, 77.51 mg/100 g calcium, 2.59 mg/100 g zinc, 0.233 phytate/iron molar ratio (Ph:Fe), 0.067 phytate/calcium molar ratio (Ph:Ca), 3.43 phytate/zinc molar ratio (Ph:Zn), and 6.63 phytate by calcium to zinc molar ratio (Ph*Ca:Zn). Furthermore, it contained iron at a level that is 2.01 times higher than the standard and 4.44 times higher than the control, as well as an iron density of 8.47 mg/100 kcal, which was 4.39 times higher than that of the control. These findings showed that the optimized dabi teff-field pea based iron-dense novel composite complementary flour with enhanced bioavailability can be developed and used as a sustainable food-based strategy to combat iron deficiency anemia among children in less developed countries, such as Ethiopia.