Inadequate Intake Research Articles

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<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<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.

Household food insecurity and associations with energy, nutrient intake, and sociodemographic characteristics in young New Zealand children

Although food insecurity affects a significant proportion of young children in New Zealand (NZ)(1), evidence of its association with dietary intake and sociodemographic characteristics in this population is lacking. This study aims to assess the household food security status of young NZ children and its association with energy and nutrient intake and sociodemographic factors. This study included 289 caregiver and child (1-3 years old) dyads from the same household in either Auckland, Wellington, or Dunedin, NZ. Household food security status was determined using a validated and NZ-specific eight-item questionnaire(2). Usual dietary intake was determined from two 24-hour food recalls, using the multiple source method(3). The prevalence of inadequate nutrient intake was assessed using the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) cut-point method and full probability approach. Sociodemographic factors (i.e., socioeconomic status, ethnicity, caregiver education, employment status, household size and structure) were collected from questionnaires. Linear regression models were used to estimate associations with statistical significance set at p <0.05. Over 30% of participants had experienced food insecurity in the past 12 months. Of all eight indicator statements, “the variety of foods we are able to eat is limited by a lack of money,” had the highest proportion of participants responding “often” or “sometimes” (35.8%). Moderately food insecure children exhibited higher fat and saturated fat intakes, consuming 3.0 (0.2, 5.8) g/day more fat, and 2.0 (0.6, 3.5) g/day more saturated fat compared to food secure children (p<0.05). Severely food insecure children had lower g/kg/day protein intake compared to food secure children (p<0.05). In comparison to food secure children, moderately and severely food insecure children had lower fibre intake, consuming 1.6 (2.8, 0.3) g/day and 2.6 (4.0, 1.2) g/day less fibre, respectively. Severely food insecure children had the highest prevalence of inadequate calcium (7.0%) and vitamin C (9.3%) intakes, compared with food secure children [prevalence of inadequate intakes: calcium (2.3%) and vitamin C (2.8%)]. Household food insecurity was more common in those of Māori or Pacific ethnicity; living in areas of high deprivation; having a caregiver who was younger, not in paid employment, or had low educational attainment; living with ≥2 other children in the household; and living in a sole-parent household. Food insecure young NZ children consume a diet that exhibits lower nutritional quality in certain measures compared to their food-secure counterparts. Food insecurity was associated with various sociodemographic factors that are closely linked with poverty or low income. As such, there is an urgent need for poverty mitigation initiatives to safeguard vulnerable young children from the adverse consequences of food insecurity.

Reducing hip and non-vertebral fractures in institutionalised older adults by restoring inadequate intakes of protein and calcium is cost-saving

Older adults in aged care homes account for 30% of the population burden of hip fractures(1). Nutritional interventions to correct protein and calcium inadequacies reduce these and other debilitating fractures, perhaps partly by reducing falls and slowing deterioration in bone morphology. We aimed to determine whether a nutritional approach to fracture risk reduction in aged care homes is cost-effective. Costing was estimated based on results of a prospective two-year cluster-randomised controlled trial involving 3313 residents in 27 aged care homes (intervention using high dairy menus), 3911 residents in 29 aged care homes (controls consuming from normal menus) and cost of ambulance, hospital, rehabilitation, and residential care incurred after fracture. The incremental cost-effectiveness ratios per fracture averted within a 2-year time horizon were estimated from the Australian healthcare perspective applying a 5% discount rate on costs after the first year. Intervention resulted in a total of 3.5 servings of milk, yoghurt and/or cheese daily, achieving 1,142mg calcium and 69g protein versus usual daily intakes of 700mg calcium and 58g protein consumed by controls. This intervention reduced all fractures by 33% at a daily cost of AU$0.66 per resident. The base-case results showed that intervention was cost-saving per fracture averted, with robust results in a variety of sensitivity and scenario analyses. Scaling the benefits of intervention to the Australian community equated to a saving of AU$66,780,000 annually in Australia and remained cost saving up to a daily food expenditure of AU$1.07 per aged care resident. Averting hip and other non-vertebral fractures in older adults in aged care homes by restoring nutritional inadequacies of protein and calcium is cost saving and supports the wide-spread implementation of this type of nutritional intervention in similar settings.

Identifying Typical Presentations of Vitamin B-12 Deficiency among Individuals Attending Tertiary Care Hospital in Central Gujarat: A Case Control Study.

Introduction: Vitamin B12 is mainly obtained through non vegetarian diet, milk and milk products. Malabsorption and inadequate intake leads to haematological and neurological disorders. Objective:To determine the symptoms and signs associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency. Method: A case control study was conducted at the medicine department of tertiary care hospital. Patients visiting hospital with serum Vitamin B12 level below 200pg/ml were labelled as cases and more than 200 pg/ml were labelled as controls, irrespective of signs and symptoms of Vitamin B 12 deficiency.Controls were matched for age to minimize confounding. 160 cases and 160 controls were selected. Pretested semi structured questionnaire was used to identify signs and symptoms of Vitamin B12 deficiency among cases and controls. Chi square test was applied for each symptom between cases and control, of which 10 were significant (p<0.05). ROC curve was plotted for the 10 symptoms to check their usefulness for diagnosing vitamin B12 deficiency. Results: Area-Under Curve (AUC) was maximum under knuckle pigmentation (0.794), (Positive Likelihood Ratio (PLR)=3.24) followed by poor memory (0.684), (PLR=3.25) tingling and numbness (0.624), (PLR=1.84) and dizziness (0.605), (PLR=1.38) in respective order. Whereas fatigue, sore and swollen tongue, pale skin, breathlessness, palpitation, insomnia, memory loss were not associated with Vitamin B12 deficiency(p>0.05).Conclusion: Presence of knuckle pigmentation, poor memory, tingling and numbness, and dizziness can be defined as hallmarks of Vitamin B12 deficiency and can be used to predict and start Vitamin B12 supplementation.

Availability, acceptability, and utilization of micronutrient fortification for children 6-23 months in three districts in Ghana

BackgroundMicronutrient deficiencies result from multiple factors, including inadequate intake of micronutrients (vitamins and minerals) from nutrient-rich diverse diets. Point-of-use fortification with a nutritional supplement powder is recommended to address micronutrient deficiencies and anemia among infants and young children (6-23 months), particularly, in low-income countries. In Ghana, about a quarter of children aged 6-59 months are anemic, or deficient in iron and vitamin A. World Vision Ghana (WVG) implemented the integrated Improved Feeding Practices (IFP) project between 2020 and 2023 in three districts in Ghana to improve diet quality and practices of women of reproductive age, and young children below age two years. One component of the project involved the distribution of a nutritional supplement powder (KOKO Plus). This is the second in a series of four papers that document the implementation and outcomes of the IFP project; the other papers are published in this journal. The current paper assessed the availability, acceptability, and utilization of KOKO Plus to households who participated in the IFP project as well as lessons learned from implementing the intervention.MethodsA mixed-methods design was used, triangulating primary and secondary data. Secondary data originated from review of IFP project documents, including project mid-year and annual reports, and implementation plans across the three interdependent components of the IFP project. Primary data were obtained from interviews in six purposively selected communities. Key informants included WVG staff, community volunteers, and local government agency staff from health and agriculture sector agencies, and beneficiaries of the intervention. Interview respondents answered questions on the project’s mechanism for KOKO Plus distribution, participant experiences of purchasing and using KOKO Plus, perceived benefits of using KOKO Plus, and lessons learned about KOKO Plus from the IFP project. Beneficiaries also provided information on their perceptions of KOKO Plus acceptability and adverse outcomes.ResultsThe project distributed KOKO Plus free of charge to almost 14,000 (13,942) children, more than its target (4,900). In addition, Village-Based Entrepreneurs (VBE) sold 192,092 sachets of KOKO Plus in the project communities. The KOKO Plus value chain involved WVG purchasing the KOKO Plus from the Ghanaian manufacturer and supplying it to VBE’s either in their respective communities, or at distribution centers in their respective WVG district office. KOKO Plus promotion and marketing was led by trained VBE’s, VBE supervisors, and Community Based Organizations across multiple settings (homes, child welfare clinics, markets, community durbars, and religious gatherings). There was high acceptability of KOKO Plus. Mothers attributed their acceptance of KOKO Plus to its potential health and nutrition benefits for children. They also attributed increased child weight, and less frequent illness, to feeding meals that included KOKO Plus to their young children. KOKO Plus was added to the diverse local meals fed to young children. Diarrhea was the only mentioned adverse report, albeit rarely. At the end of the IFP project, WVG established a fund to ensure sustainable distribution of KOKO Plus in the project communities.ConclusionsThe IFP project established a KOKO Plus value chain, increasing availability, accessibility, acceptability, and utilization of KOKO Plus in the project communities. VBE’s successfully distributed KOKO Plus with support from community volunteers, and health care workers. This approach to KOKO Plus distribution is feasible and sustainable and is recommended for similar contexts.

Contribution of Beef to Key Nutrient Intakes and Nutrient Adequacy in Pregnant and Lactating Women: NHANES 2011-2018 Analysis.

Beef is an important source of high-quality protein and several micronutrients, including iron, zinc, and B-vitamins. The objective was to assess the association of beef intake with nutrient intake and adequacy among pregnant and lactating women using 24-h dietary recall data. Usual intakes from foods were determined with the National Cancer Institute (NCI) method and % population below Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) or above Adequate Intake (AI) were estimated. A high proportion of pregnant and lactating women had inadequate intakes for vitamin D (94%), vitamin E (82%), vitamin C (52%), and vitamin A (50%), magnesium (35%), folate (31%), zinc (25%), and vitamin B6 (22%); only 4% and 35% met AI for choline and potassium, respectively. About 67% of pregnant and lactating women were beef consumers, consuming 49 g beef/day. Beef consumers had higher intakes (p < 0.05) of energy, protein, calcium, iron, phosphorus, selenium, sodium, zinc, thiamin, riboflavin, and niacin, and a higher proportion (p < 0.05) met nutrient recommendations for protein, calcium, iron, zinc, thiamin, riboflavin, niacin, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 compared to non-consumers. In conclusion, pregnant and lactating women generally have inadequate nutrient intakes from their diets. Beef consumers have higher intakes and adequacy for certain nutrients, many of which are inherently available in beef or in foods eaten with beef.

Factors Related to Masticatory Rhythm in Patients with Oral Tumors.

Background: Older adults who have undergone surgery for oral tumors are at increased risk of impaired masticatory rhythm. This study investigated the correlations between masticatory rhythm, objective masticatory performance, and subjective masticatory performance as well as factors related to masticatory rhythm. Methods: The participants were 44 adults (24 men, 20 women; age range 42~90 years old) who had undergone maxillectomy, mandibulectomy, or glossectomy and were rehabilitated with a maxillofacial prosthesis. The number of functional contact teeth pairs was confirmed by intraoral examination. Chewing rate, cycle duration, coefficient of variation (CV) for cycle duration (reflecting the stability of masticatory rhythm), and mixing ability were measured simultaneously using a mastication movement rhythm tracking device during gum chewing. Maximum occlusal force was measured using the dental prescale system. Patients' perception of chewing ability was rated using a questionnaire. Results: The Spearman's rank correlation test revealed that mixing ability, patient-rated masticatory scores, cycle duration, CV for cycle duration, and maximum occlusal force showed significant correlations with chewing rate. Multiple linear regression analysis identified mixing ability and the CV for cycle duration as significant predictors of masticatory rhythm. Conclusions: Factors associated with a faster chewing rate were higher mixing ability and masticatory scores, greater maximum occlusal force, shorter cycle duration, and smaller CV for cycle duration. Stable masticatory rhythm and mixing ability are significant predictors of chewing rate. Poor masticatory performance and unstable masticatory rhythm can result in slower chewing and thus a higher risk of inadequate dietary intake.

Enzymatic hydrolysates from sea cucumber body wall prevent low calcium-induced osteoporosis by regulating calcium absorption and gut microbiota

Inadequate calcium intake or intestinal malabsorption is closely related to osteoporosis. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of sea cucumber enzymatic hydrolysates (SCEH) prepared from body wall on calcium absorption in calcium-deficient rats. Fifty-six female Sprague-Dawley rats on a low calcium diet that induced osteoporosis were fed SCEH and calcium carbonate for 3 months. The results showed that oral administration of SCEH and calcium carbonate both increased the body weight (bw) and bone mineral density (BMD) in calcium-deficient rats to varying degrees, thereby alleviating the adverse effects of osteoporosis. In addition, oral administration of a combination of SCEH (2000 mg/kg bw/day) and calcium (333 mg/kg bw/day) upregulated the expression of calcium transporter genes (TRPV6 and Calbindin-D9k) in the intestines, increased serum 1,25(OH)2D3 levels and BMD, decreased trabecular bone separation, and inhibited parathyroid hormone (PTH) release in calcium-deficient rats compared to calcium carbonate groups. Thus, this combination promoted calcium absorption and improved the efficiency of calcium utilization. These results might be associated with a higher short chain fatty acid (SCFA) level in the gut and an increased abundance of butyrate and acetate producing bacteria, such as Christensenellaceae R7 group, UCG-005 and Clostridium UCG-014. Therefore, a diet containing SCEH and calcium combinations might be recommended to increase bone mass and inhibit osteoporosis.

Low daily water intake profile-is it a contributor to disease?

Few previous review articles have focused on the associations between inadequate daily water intake (LOW) or urinary biomarkers of dehydration (UD; low urine volume or high urine osmolality) and multiple diseases. Accordingly, we conducted manual online searches (47 key words) of the PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar databases with these inclusion criteria: English language, full-text, peer reviewed, no restriction on research design, and three publications minimum. Initially, 3,903 articles were identified based on their titles and abstracts. Evaluations of full length .pdf versions identified 96 studies that were acceptable for inclusion. We concluded that the evidence is insufficient or conflicting for seven disorders or diseases (i.e. suggesting the need for additional clarifying research) and it is lacking for all-cause mortality. Differential characterizations among women and men have been reported in the results of nine studies involving five diseases. Finally, the evidence for associations of LOW or UD is strong for both kidney stones and type 2 diabetes with hyperglycemia. This suggests that great public health value (i.e. reduced disease risk) may result from increased daily water intake-a simple and cost-effective dietary modification.

Abstract 2171: Nutritional mediators of inflammation: A cause for increased surveillance

Abstract Background: Nutritional and inflammatory factors collected in routine cancer labs, neutrophil percentage to albumin ratio (NPAR), neutrophil lymphocyte ratio (NLR), monocyte lymphocyte ratio (MLR), and platelet lymphocyte ratio (PLR), have been shown feasible in identification of patients at risk of increased treatment complications, decreased cognition, anxiety and depression, and increased mortality. These have proven sensitive to multiple cancer types and stages, though little is known about causal pathways. The Vitamin/Mineral and Inflammatory Correlations To Understand Chronic Stress in the U.S. (The VICTUS Study) sought to elucidate a relationship between diet and food insecurity within these panels. Methods: Using NHANES 2017/2018 surveys, adults &amp;gt; 18 years without renal or hepatic disorders, pregnancy, alcohol, or supplement use were included. NPAR, NLR, MLR, and PLR were categorized as quartiles and compared to demographic, food security, plasma micronutrient statuses [vitamins A, B9, C, D, E, calcium (Ca), ferritin (Fe), phosphorus (P), potassium (K), sodium (Na)], and smoking, activity level, and sun exposure, using chi-square and ANOVA. ANOVA models compared food security and poverty to NPAR, NLR, MLR, and PLR means. Results: From 3,317 participants, 50.2% were male, 54.3% non-Hispanic White, 33.7%, food insecure, 51.1% food stamp recipients, 27.7% smokers, with a mean age of 42.5 (SD 0.44), poverty to income ratio 2.79 (SD 0.08), CRP 3.90 (SD 0.18), NPAR 14.1 (SD 0.14), NLR 2.07 (SD 0.04), MLR 0.28 (SD 0.003), and PLR 118.7 (SD 1.61). CRP was found to be statistically significantly associated with all biomarker ratios (p &amp;lt; 0.018). Significant micronutrient biomarker-inflammatory biomarker associations were identified in Fe [NPAR, MLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.001)], P [NPAR, NLR, MLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.033)], C [NPAR, NLR (p &amp;lt; 0.008)], E [MLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.016)], K [NPAR, NLR, MLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.015)], Ca [NPAR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.04)], A [NPAR (p &amp;lt; 0.023)] and D [NLR (p &amp;lt; 0.035)]. Significant micronutrient intake-inflammatory biomarker associations were detected in vitamin A [NPAR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.013)], lycopene [NLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.035)], and B12 [NLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.031)]. Age [NPAR, NLR, MLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.001)], gender [NPAR, MLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.001)], ethnicity [NPAR, NLR, MLR (p &amp;lt; 0.006)], and sedentariness [MLR, PLR (p &amp;lt; 0.039)] were also associated with inflammatory markers. Poverty was significantly associated with NPAR, NLR, MLR, and CRP (p &amp;lt; 0.018). Food insecurity was significantly associated with NPAR (p &amp;lt; 0.001) and CRP (p &amp;lt; 0.001). Discussion: Food insecurity and poverty were significantly associated with NPAR, a ratio implicated in overall poorer cancer health outcomes. Multiple inadequate micronutrient intakes and plasma biomarkers were associated with inflammatory panels, though neither nutritional biomarker nor food insecurity statuses and their contributions to inflammatory processes are routinely surveilled within cancer disease and treatment. Citation Format: Jennifer Crook, Eunkyung Lee, Rui Xie, Opeyemi Bolajoko, Victoria Loerzel. Nutritional mediators of inflammation: A cause for increased surveillance [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the American Association for Cancer Research Annual Meeting 2024; Part 1 (Regular Abstracts); 2024 Apr 5-10; San Diego, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Res 2024;84(6_Suppl):Abstract nr 2171.

Understanding Maternal Nutrition Insights from Pregnant Women in Bamenda, Cameroon

The foundation for good physical health is good nutritional status. Nutritional status of pregnant women is directly affected by the foods they eat and their nutrient content. Nutritional knowledge is positively associated with diet quality. The aim of this study was to assess nutritional status and nutrition education knowledge of pregnant women attending antenatal clinics in Bamenda Health District (BHD). &#x0D; Study Design: This study was carried conducted in BHD in the North West Region of Cameroon, with pregnant women aged 13 to 49 years recruited from public hospitals.&#x0D; Place and Duration of Study: BHD including (Bamenda Regional Hospital, Azire Integrated Health centre, Atuakom Integrated Health Centre, Ntambag Integrated Health Centre) between April 2022 to September 2022.&#x0D; Methodology: This was a cross sectional study carried out in four health facilities BHD. Random sampling technique was done to target the sample size of 354 pregnant women. A questionnaire was developed to collect socio-demographic information and clinical records of the pregnant women. Anthropometric parameters, biochemical and dietary assessments of the women were determined using standard techniques. Data collected was analysed by MS excel and SPSS Statistics version 20.0. Results were considered at significance level P ≤ 0.05. &#x0D; Results: The mean age of the study population was 26.4±5.5years and the average intake of servings of meals per day was suboptimal in the consumption of vegetables (2±1.9), fruits (0.6± 1.3) and milk (0.4 ±0.6) food groups. Women consumed diets that met less than 50% of energy needs. There exists a significant difference in mean energy requirements 1828.8 ± 152.9 Kcal compared to mean energy intake 1192.0 ± 344.6 Kcal which is below the Recommended Daily Allowances (RDA) of 2400 kcal for pregnant women. Ignorance still existed in dietary knowledge and 18.1% of the women were anaemic. &#x0D; Conclusion: There was an overall suboptimal approach to dietary intake among the pregnant women, inadequate food intake, poor food choices and limited healthy dietary knowledge. Thus pregnant women in BHD still need more access to information on dietary information.

RELATIONSHIP CHARACTERISTICS OF PREGNANT MOTHERS TO STUNTING PREVENTION BEHAVIOR

Background: Prevention of stunting starting from the beginning of pregnancy must be done in order to reduce the incidence of stunting in children. Incidence of stunting can occur during pregnancy due to inadequate nutritional intake during pregnancy, inappropriate eating patterns, and low food quality resulting in stunted growth. Objective: The study was to determine the relationship between the characteristics of pregnant women in preventing stunting at the Serang City Health Center. Design This research is cross-sectional. The research population was pregnant women in the second trimester in the working area of the Mapane Health Center, totaling 49 people. The sampling technique used is total sampling. Methods: research with a cross sectional approach with a sample of pregnant women with anemia or KEK at the Serang City Health Center by testing specific hypotheses to find out whether the relationship or significant effect between the research variables has implications for stunting prevention. Conclusion: There is a significant relationship between the work of pregnant women who experience anemia and stunting prevention behavior at Serang City Health Center in 2022. There is no significant relationship between Age, Gravida and Education of pregnant women who experience anemia with stunting prevention behavior at Serang City Health Center in 2022 Suggestion: midwives in providing counseling or counseling to pregnant women are always accompanied by families who are at home or close to where they live so that they can remind each other if there are habits or lack of nutrition for the health of pregnant women and the growth and development of their babies.

Community intervention in patients with arterial hypertension

Healthy eating habits and lifestyle modifications play a vital role in the treatment and control of high blood pressure. Objective: evaluate community intervention to modify the knowledge of bad eating habits in the hypertensive population of office 149 of the Hermanos Cruz Polyclinic in the period 2021-2023. Material and method: an action research was carried out with the purpose of modifying the knowledge of the bad eating habits of the hypertensive population in office 149 of the Hermanos Cruz Polyclinic, from September 2021 to June 2023. The universe was made up of 128 hypertensive patients, adults, from the medical office under study. The sample was made up of 125 patients. Results: the age group of 40-49 years predominated with 32 %. Regarding nutritional status, a predominance of overweight and normal weight patients was demonstrated. Inadequate sodium intake also played a leading role. A community intervention was applied that decreased patients with inadequate sodium intake, increased normal weight, and increased the level of knowledge about high blood pressure. Conclusions: community intervention decreased risk factors in hypertensive patients

Perspective: Nutrition Health Disparities Framework: A Model to Advance Health Equity

Disparities in nutrition, such as poor diet quality and inadequate nutrient intake, arise from multiple factors and are related to adverse health outcomes such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and some cancers. The aim of the current perspective is to present a nutrition-centric socioecological framework that delineates determinants and factors that contribute to diet and nutrition-related disparities among disadvantaged populations. The Nutrition Health Disparities Framework (NHDF) describes the domains (biological, behavioral, physical/built environment, sociocultural environment, and healthcare system) that influence nutrition-related health disparities through the lens of each level of influence (that is, individual, interpersonal, community, and societal). On the basis of the scientific literature, the authors engaged in consensus decision making in selecting nutrition-related determinants of health within each domain and socioecological level when creating the NHDF. The framework identifies how neighborhood food availability and access (individual/built environment) intersect with cultural norms and practices (interpersonal/sociocultural environment) to influence dietary behaviors, exposures, and risk of diet-related diseases. In addition, the NHDF shows how factors such as genetic predisposition (individual/biology), family dietary practices (interpersonal/behavioral), and food marketing policies (societal) may impact the consumption of unhealthy foods and beverages and increase chronic disease risk. Family and peer norms (interpersonal/behavior) related to breastfeeding and early childhood nutrition interact with resource-poor environments such as lack of access to preventive healthcare settings (societal/healthcare system) and low usage of federal nutrition programs (societal/behavioral), which may increase risk of poor nutrition during childhood and food insecurity. The NHDF describes the synergistic interrelationships among factors at different levels of the socioecological model that influence nutrition-related outcomes and exacerbate health disparities. The framework is a useful resource for nutrition researchers, practitioners, food industry leaders, and policymakers interested in improving diet-related health outcomes and promoting health equity in diverse populations.

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.

Upaya Promotif Dan Preventif Stunting Kepada Pengunjung Posyandu RW 3 Kelurahan Mojosongo, Kecamatan Jebres, Kota Surakarta

Introduction: According to WHO (2015), stunting is a disruption in the growth and development of children due to chronic malnutrition and recurrent infections, which are characterized by body length or height below standard. Furthermore, according to WHO (2020) stunting is short based on length/height according to age which is less than -2 standard deviation (SD) on the WHO child growth curve which occurs due to irreversible conditions due to inadequate nutritional intake and/or recurrent infections/chronic disease that occurs within 1000 first-time days of life. Mojosongo is one of the Villages in Jebres District, Surakarta City. Based on the jateng.prov.go report in 2022, in Mojosongo there are 137 stunting cases that will be handled. Wrong parenting patterns, inappropriate feeding, high cases of young marriages, and lack of knowledge cause the risk of stunting in children. Reflecting on these conditions, this area was chosen to be the target of promotive and preventive efforts in carrying out willing to make the pulic of Indonesia healthier Objective: This activity aims to increase general public understanding about stunting in children. Method: Activities with lecture speaking and give education through leaflet media. Evaluation using a questionnaire both before counseling and after presenting the material.

Micronutrient inadequacy among lactating mothers in rural areas of North Mecha District, Amhara Region, Ethiopia.

Lactating mothers are frequently at risk for nutritional deficiencies due to the physiological requirements of lactation. Throughout the world, a significant number of lactating mothers have micronutrient intake inadequacy. Evidence on micronutrient intake during lactation is limited in rural Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine micronutrient intake inadequacy and associated factors among lactating mothers. A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from February 1 to 18, 2023, among lactating mothers in rural areas of the North Mecha District of Amhara Region, Northwest Ethiopia. A multistage sampling technique was used to select 449 study participants. An interviewer-administered questionnaire was employed to collect dietary intake data by using a single multiphasic interactive 24-h dietary recall. The NutriSurvey 2007 software and Ethiopia, Tanzania and Kenya food composition tables were used to calculate nutrient values for the selected 12 micronutrients. For the remainder of the analysis, SPSS version 25 was employed. The Nutrient Adequacy Ratio (NAR) and Mean Adequacy Ratio (MAR) were calculated by dividing all NAR values by the number of micronutrients computed to evaluate the nutrient intakes. A logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine the factors contributing to the overall micronutrient intake inadequacy, and statistical significance was determined at a p value <0.05. A total of 430 lactating mothers participated in the study, with a 96% response rate and a mean age of 29.46 ± 5.55 years. The overall prevalence of micronutrient intake inadequacy was 72.3% (95% CI: 67.9, 76.5). The odds of micronutrient intake inadequacy were 2.5 times higher among lactating mothers aged 18-25 years old as compared to mothers in the age group ≥36 years old (AOR = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.09, 5.83). Mothers with the educational status of unable to read and write and primary school incomplete were 3.5 (AOR = 3.49, 95% CI: 1.24, 9.83) and 3.6 (AOR = 3.56, 95% CI: 1.06, 11.99) times more likely to have micronutrient intake inadequacy than mothers with secondary school completed or above educational status, respectively. Mothers whose partner's occupation was other than farming were 3.3 times more likely to have micronutrient intake inadequacy as compared to mothers whose partners were engaged in farming (AOR = 3.32, 95% CI: 1.08, 10.27). Lactating mothers who were from food-insecure households were 83% more likely to have high micronutrient intake inadequacy as compared to lactating mothers from food-secure households (AOR = 1.83, 95% CI: 1.04, 3.23). Lactating mothers with nutrition-related unfavorable attitudes were 77% more likely to have inadequate intake of micronutrients compared to lactating mothers with favorable attitudes (AOR = 1.77, 95% CI: 1.07, 2.93). The prevalence of micronutrient intake inadequacy among lactating mothers was high. Age of the mothers, educational status of the mothers, occupation of the partner, household food security, and nutrition-related attitude were significantly associated with micronutrient intake inadequacy. Community driven nutrition education and interventions are needed to address the high micronutrient intake inadequacy among lactating mothers in rural Ethiopia.

Potential Complementary Effect of Zinc and Alkalihalobacillus clausii on Gut Health and Immunity: A Narrative Review.

A balanced microbiota-microorganisms that live in the gut-is crucial in the early years of a child's life, while dysbiosis-altered microbiota-has been linked to the development of various diseases. Probiotics, such as Alkalihalobacillus clausii, are commonly used to restore the balance of gut microbiota and have shown additional antimicrobial and immunomodulatory properties. Intake of micronutrients can affect the structure and function of the gut barrier and of the microbiota by having multiple effects on cellular metabolism (e.g., immunomodulation, gene expression, and support structure proteins). An inadequate zinc intake increases the risk of deficiency and associated immune dysfunctions; it is responsible for an increased risk of developing gastrointestinal diseases, respiratory infections, and stunting. Paediatric zinc deficiency is a public health concern in many countries, especially in low-income areas. Currently, zinc supplementation is used to treat childhood diarrhoea. This review examines how combining A. clausii and zinc could improve dysbiosis, gut health, and immunity. It suggests that this combination could be used to prevent and treat infectious diseases and diarrhoea in children up to adolescence.

Chewing difficulties, oral health, and nutritional status in adults with intellectual disabilities: A cross-sectional study.

Chewing difficulty, poor oral health, inadequate and imbalanced nutrition are serious health problems in individuals with intellectual disabilities. The participants' chewing abilities, oral health and nutritional status were analysed in this study. Forty-five adult participants with intellectual disabilities were included. Anthropometric measurements, oral health assessments, chewing ability evaluations and dietary intake analyses were conducted. A 56.8% of the participants were classified as overweight or obese. Teeth grinding was reported in 33.3% of the participants, while 40.0% experienced drooling. All participants with Down syndrome and 58.6% of the participants with developmental delay had chewing difficulties. Inadequate nutrient intake was observed and the fibre, vitamins B1, B3, B9, sodium, phosphorus and iron intakes were significantly lower than reference values in those with chewing difficulty (p < .05). Chewing difficulties were associated with lower intake of certain nutrients, highlighting the importance of addressing oral health and dietary counselling in this population.

Functional dairy products enriched with omega-3 fatty acids

A critical review was conducted on topics related to functional foods, omega-3 fatty acids, sources of omega-3 fatty acids, and types of dairy products fortified with omega-3 fatty acids. Functional foods are products enriched with special ingredients that give the food beneficial and healthy effects. Inadequate intake of functional foods is directly related to modern diseases, such as atherosclerosis, Alzheimer's, diabete type 2, cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases. Omega-3 and omega-6 are polyunsaturated fatty acids. They have an important biological role for the human body. High omega-6/omega-3 ratios and high amounts of omega-6 lead to a variety of cardiovascular, cancer, inflammatory and autoimmune diseases, while high levels of omega-3 suppress the development of these diseases. Sources of omega-3 fatty acids can be from plants, fish and algae. Dairy products can be enriched with omega-3 fatty acids by modifying the animal's diet or by directly adding vegetable or fish oils. Fresh and mature dairy products enriched with plant and animal sources of omega-3 fatty acids are found in the literature. From the literature review, it was found that there are not enough studies related to the enrichment of Bulgarian dairy products with omega-3 fatty acids.