Adequate Intake Research Articles

Minimum dietary diversity behaviour among children aged 6 to 24 months and their determinants: insights from 31 Sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries

BackgroundFeeding practices during infancy have a significant impact on a child’s cognitive development and long-term health outcomes. Dietary diversity guidelines from the WHO and UNICEF recommend a diverse range of foods for children aged below 24 months for their optimal growth and development. However, in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), little is known about the extent to which dietary diversity behaviour in children aged 6 to 24 months aligns with the recommendations and the factors associated with the differentials in dietary behaviour. This study aimed to fill this gap.MethodsThis study employed an analytical cross-sectional approach, drawing on recent Demographic and Health Survey (DHS) data from 31 SSA countries. The study included a weighted sample of 44,071 children aged between 6 and 24 months, and their respective mothers aged 15–49 years. The primary outcome was Minimum Dietary Diversity (MDD) categorised per WHO recommendation. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine the association of MDD with demographic and socio-economic characteristics.ResultsThe pooled MDD intake among children aged 6–24 months in SSA was 11% ranging from as low as 1.3% in Burkina Faso to 32.9% in South Africa. Children of mothers aged 45–49 years had 52% significant higher likelihood of MDD compared to those aged 15–19 years (AOR = 1.52, 95% CI:1.03, 2.24). Higher maternal education levels also increased MDD odds in the children: 22% higher for mothers who had attained secondary education (AOR = 1.22, 95% CI:1.07, 1.39), and 36% higher for those with education beyond secondary level (AOR = 1.36, 95% CI:1.09, 1.71) compared to no education. Children of rich mothers had 44% higher odds of MDD than those with poor mothers (AOR = 1.44, 95% CI:1.27, 1.62). Increased antenatal visits, and urban residence also contributed to higher MDD odds.ConclusionBased on the current global estimate of approximately 28% MDD rate, the reported 11% MDD intake among children in this study is relatively low. There is a positive association between MDD intake in children and several factors, including maternal education, antenatal visits, wealth index, and residency. These findings highlight the need for policymakers and other stakeholders to give urgent attention to empowering parents to ensure adequate nutrient intake among children for better child growth and development.

Adequacy of oral intakes after cardiac surgery within an ERAS pathway: A prospective observational study.

The 2019 Enhanced Recovery After Cardiac Surgery (ERACS) guidelines presented perioperative recommendations to optimize treatment for patients undergoing cardiac surgery (CS). However, the guidelines have not established postoperative nutrition recommendations. Limited studies have analyzed oral intakes after CS, but to our knowledge, none have done so in an ERACS pathway. The main objective of this study was to evaluate the adequacy of postoperative oral intakes, including adherence to oral nutrition supplements (ONSs). This was an observational prospective study. Postoperative oral intakes were analyzed from postoperative day (POD) 1 to 4, using direct observation of meal plates provided by the hospital. ONSs consumption was evaluated from POD2 to POD4. Adherence to other ERACS recommendations, including nutrition optimization before surgery, was recorded. Forty-three patients were included in this study. Nutrition optimization before CS was offered to three (7%) patients. Forty-one (95%) patients resumed oral intakes on POD1. Mean oral calorie and protein intakes from POD2 to POD4 were 1088 ± 437 kcal and 0.8 ± 0.3 g/kg, respectively; however, 17 (41%) patients had calorie and protein intakes ≥70% of their estimated requirements. On POD2, ONSs consumption contributed 35% ± 19% and 38% ± 20% of calorie and protein intake, respectively. There was a significant decrease in ONSs consumption starting on POD3. Within an ERACS pathway and with the contribution of ONSs, 41% of patients achieved sufficient oral intakes within the first 4 days after CS. The optimization of ONSs adherence on postoperative oral intakes should be further studied.

SERIAL HEALTH ASSESSMENT WITH STANDARDIZED EXTERNAL SCORING AND HEMOLYMPH EVALUATION IN THE AMERICAN HORSESHOE CRAB (LIMULUS POLYPHEMUS).

Serial health assessment of a managed population of American horseshoe crabs (HSC; Limulus polyphemus) was performed. Twenty HSC were examined once a month for 7 mon; this included a physical exam with a standardized scoring sheet, HR, morphometrics, and hemolymph evaluation with hemocyte count, copper concentration, and biochemistry panel. The HSC in this population had varying levels of external lesions at enrollment. All HSC were clinically and behaviorally stable over the study period, with no apparent differences in evaluated parameters in relation to degree of external lesions. Although the standardized scoring sheet was found to be helpful to complete the evaluation, the qualitative criteria potentially masks clinically important gradations in some parameters. HR ranged from 4 to 60 bpm, with high intra- and interindividual variability. Increased prosomal widths (PW) were found to be correlated with lower HR. Plots of weight (W) in grams divided by PW in centimeters are roughly linear, and W:PW shows promise as a method of body condition evaluation in a hard-shelled animal. Serial collection of ∼2 ml of hemolymph led to no appreciable clinical decline in any animal. Total protein levels were stable and higher than previously reported for HSC in managed care. Glucose values were stable throughout the study period, which is interpreted as reflecting adequate nutritional intake in the study animals. Further studies are needed to determine the clinical utility of standardized vertebrate biochemistry panels in invertebrate species.

Exploring the determinants of dietary nutrients intake among the rural households: a cross-sectional study in Jhargram district of West Bengal, India

In India, nutritional public health problems such as macronutrient malnutrition and diet-related non-communicable diseases are still persistent. Dietary assessment among the population is essential to understand the adequate consumption of nutrients in maintaining a balanced diet and most importantly to accomplish the Sustainable Development Goal-2, ‘End hunger, achieve food security and improved nutrition’, by 2030. Hence, an attempt was made in this paper to examine the nutrient consumption and compare it with the Recommended Dietary Allowances (RDAs)-given by Indian Council of Medical Research(ICMR)-2020 and also to assess the determinants of adequate intake of calorie and Protein among the rural households in Jhargram district of West Bengal, India. The study used primary data from a sample of 200 households collected during April–May, 2017. The daily intake of calorie and protein were calculated by following the RDAs by ICMR-2020 conversion table. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression models were employed. Results found that the consumption of adequate calorie and protein intake was 30% and 40% respectively. Logistic regression found that age, gender of the household head, social category, size of household, major source of income, access to market, access to credit, type of house, monthly per-capita consumer expenditure and farm size were significantly associated with the consumption of calorie and protein. The study concludes the need to address the importance of socio-economic disparities in nutrient intake and accessibility of credit facilities to rural households. There is also a need for targeted interventions among female-headed households to foster balanced nutrition and avert malnutrition.

Trace element zinc metabolism and its relation to tumors

Zinc is an essential trace element in the human body, playing a crucial role in cellular metabolism.Dysregulation of zinc homeostasis can lead to abnormal cellular metabolism, contributing to diseases and closely related to tumor development. Adequate zinc intake can maintain zinc homeostasis in the body and support normal cellular metabolism. This review discusses the metabolic processes of zinc in the human body and its close relationship with tumorigenesis. It briefly describes zinc absorption, transport, storage, and release, as well as its important role in gene expression, signal transduction, oxidative stress, immune response, and apoptosis. It focuses on the abnormal cellular metabolism caused by excessive or insufficient zinc, the relationship between zinc homeostasis disruption and metabolic syndrome, and the mechanisms involved in tumor development. It analyzes how changes in the expression and activity of zinc transporters may lead to disrupted zinc homeostasis in tumor tissues. It points out that zinc deficiency is associated with various cancers, including prostate cancer, hepatocellular carcinoma, pancreatic cancer, lung cancer, ovarian cancer, esophageal squamous cell carcinoma, and breast cancer. The summary emphasizes that zinc metalloproteins could serve as potential targets for cancer therapy, and regulating the expression and activity of zinc transport proteins may offer new methods and strategies for clinical cancer treatment.

Nutritional Studies Evaluating Ketogenic Diets as a Treatment for Obesity and Obesity-Associated Morbidities: Underlying Mechanisms and Potential for Clinical Implementation

Background: The ketogenic diet (KD), characterized by high-fat content, virtually no carbohydrates, and adequate protein intake, induces a metabolic state resembling fasting, as the absence of carbohydrates forces the body to rely on the energetic supply from hepatically produced ketone bodies using free fatty acids as substrate. While the KD is clinically used in pharmacologically refractory epilepsy and specific genetic conditions such as GLUT1 deficiency, recent research suggests that, due to its “fasting mimicking” properties, the KD may also beneficially affect obesity and obesity-associated metabolic diseases. Results: Here, we present a narrative review discussing completed and ongoing nutritional studies in human volunteers specifically addressing the potential of the ketogenic diet as an anti-obesity approach and, from a larger perspective, as an intervention to ameliorate the metabolic state in conditions such as type 1 and 2 diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Published studies as well as ongoing clinical trials will be discussed. Efficacy and safety considerations will be discussed, as well as the potential physiological mechanisms mediating the effects of the KD in humans in the context of the (i) energy balance model (EBM) and (ii) carbohydrate–insulin model (CIM) of body weight control. Conclusion: Ketogenic diets may be beneficial to attenuate obesity and improve obesity-related metabolic disease, and here, we try, based on current evidence, to define the boundaries of the KD’s nutritional and clinical usefulness.

Determining the Relationship Between Zinc Status and Blood Manganese Levels on Enzymatic Markers of Tissue Damage: An Epidemiological Study Using NHANES 2013-2016 Data

Manganese is an essential trace element required for various physiological processes. However, excessive exposure to this metal can lead to health issues. This study aims to evaluate whether adequate zinc intake can influence the relationship between blood manganese levels and markers indicating damage to the liver and other organs in populations using epidemiological data. We conducted a comprehensive analysis utilizing 2013–2016 data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES). The findings indicated that blood manganese exhibits a significant positive association with the serum levels of enzymatic markers of liver damage alkaline phosphatase and aspartate aminotransferase. However, when investigating the interaction of blood manganese and zinc intake at the second quartile, a significant negative association was found with alkaline phosphatase in three different linear regression models. A similar association was found between the fourth quartile of zinc intake and lactate dehydrogenase activity in all three models of the study. The findings suggest that unhealthy high levels of manganese in population could be widespread and may lead to tissue injury and disease. Nevertheless, having an adequate zinc intake could help mitigate manganese toxicity.

The Relationship between nutritional status and menstrual cycle and anemia

Introduction: Adolescence is a period of growth and puberty; adolescents are very concerned about appearance, so they pay attention to their diet until they are strict. This causes the intake needed to be unmet, then impacts the menstrual cycle and anemia. Objective: This study aims to analyze the relationship between nutritional status, the menstrual cycle, and the incidence of anemia in adolescent girls. Method: This research is an analytic observational study. The approach in this research is cross-sectional. The population is 447 female students aged 13-15; the sample is 83. Sampling using consecutive sampling. The data collection instrument used a questionnaire to determine the menstrual cycle, measure height and weight, and measure Hb levels with digital tools. Results: This study uses the Spearman Rank test formula value 0.05. The results of nutritional status with menstrual cycles were 0.016 < 0.05, and then significant results were obtained; on nutritional status with anemia, the results were 0.00 < 0.05, then substantial results were obtained, and the results of menstrual cycles with anemia were 0.06 > 0.05 then the result is not essential. Conclusion: It can be concluded that there is a relationship between nutritional status and the menstrual cycle and anaemia, but there is no relationship between the menstrual cycle and anaemia. Optimal nutritional status, including adequate iron intake, is essential for maintaining menstrual health and preventing anemia. Nutrition interventions and health education on the importance of balanced nutrition can be a practical step in supporting women's reproductive health

Hubungan Pembelian Makanan Online dan Kebiasaan Makan Dengan Status Gizi Mahasiswa Indekos di Kota Bandar Lampung

Nutritional status describes an individual's health condition based on their Body Mass Index (BMI), which is categorized into levels such as severely underweight, mildly underweight, normal, mildly overweight, and severely overweight. Factors influencing nutritional status include eating habits and social media exposure. Eating habits refer to the regular practices or patterns adopted by an individual to fulfill physiological, social, and emotional needs through the consumption of necessary food for adequate nutritional intake. Meanwhile, prolonged exposure to social media can lead to an individual frequently encountering recommended posts, including food-related content, thereby increasing the desire to try those foods. Currently, in Indonesia, some platforms that provide online food delivery services are GoFood, GrabFood, and Shopee Food. The general aim of this study is to determine the relationship between online food purchasing and eating habits with the nutritional status of college students living in boarding houses in Bandar Lampung city. The research method used in this study is quantitative, employing a cross-sectional approach. Data collection was conducted using a microtoise to measure height, a stepping scale to measure weight, a modified SQ-FFQ form to assess eating habits, and a questionnaire to evaluate online food purchasing behavior. The chi-square test results indicate a p-value of 0.187, demonstrating no significant relationship between eating habits and the nutritional status of college students living in boarding houses in Bandar Lampung. In contrast, the chi-square test results indicate a p-value of 0.004, showing a significant relationship between online food purchasing and the nutritional status of these students. College students are advised to be more cautious when choosing foods, considering health factors and avoiding the influence of images or videos of food that might affect eating behaviors.

Pola Asuh Ibu Berbasis Family Center Nursing dalam Meningkatkan Status Nutrisi pada Balita dengan Stunting

Inadequate or poor parenting can also cause growth retardation. Parents and mothers must understand the amount of nutrition that must be given to children, including food and environmental hygiene, as well as the use of appropriate health facilities to deal with children's problems, especially those related to child nutrition. The design used is qualitative with a phenomenological approach. The sampling technique used was purposive sampling which was carried out in the Saronggi Health Center Work Area located in Nambakor Village, Saronggi District in February 2024 with a total of 7 participants, 6 main participants and 1 key participant. The data collection technique uses in-depth interview techniques, the data analysis carried out is thematic analysis. This research answers the parenting style based on Family Center Nursing in improving the nutritional status of toddlers with stunting. Nutrition for toddlers with stunting has not been fulfilled even though the mother feels that she is providing adequate nutrition for toddlers. Socio-Cultural Aspects; Providing food according to nutritional needs, managing rest schedules, and maintaining personal hygiene for stunted toddlers, while serving meals in a varied menu. Developmental Stages; Mothers feed toddlers by engaging them in activities such as walking around and playing with their peers while offering food. Environmental Factors; Washing food ingredients thoroughly before cooking or serving. Washing hands with soap every time before feeding the child. Family Structure; Families make decisions regarding the care and upbringing of toddlers, playing a vital role in ensuring adequate nutritional intake for young children. Socialization Process; Mothers actively involve their children in monthly. In this research there are 6 themes, namely: socio-cultural, history of family development, environment, family structure, stress coping and family adaptation.

Association of dietary patterns derived by reduced-rank regression with colorectal cancer risk and mortality.

Unhealthy dietary patterns contribute to an increased risk of colorectal cancer (CRC). Limited prior research has used reduced rank regression (RRR) to assess dietary patterns relative to CRC risk. This study aimed to identify dietary patterns derived by RRR and assess their associations with CRC risk and mortality. We used data from the multicentre Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening (PLCO) trial. Dietary intake was assessed using a Dietary History Questionnaire. In the RRR intake of fibre, folate, and the percentage of energy from carbohydrates, saturated and unsaturated fatty acids were used as response variables. Cox models and competing risk survival regression, with age as the time scale, were used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for CRC risk and mortality, respectively. The median follow-up time for CRC risk (n = 1044) and mortality (n = 499) was 9.4 years (Interquartile Range: 8. 0, 10.1) and 16.9 years (11.9, 18.6), respectively. Two dietary patterns were identified: the first was characterised by high carbohydrate, folate and low fatty acid intake, and the second by high fibre and unsaturated fatty acid. Compared to participants in the first tertile of the high fibre and unsaturated fatty acid pattern, those in the third tertile had a lower risk of CRC (HR = 0.88; 95% CI: 0.76, 1.03), and colon cancer (HR = 0.85; 95% CI: 0.72, 1.01). Conversely, the high carbohydrate, high folate and low fatty acid pattern had no association with CRC outcomes. None of the dietary patterns showed associations with rectal cancer or CRC mortality. A diet enriched with high fibre and unsaturated fatty acids may reduce the risk of CRC. These results highlight the potential protective effect of adequate fibre intake in conjunction with high consumption of unsaturated fatty acids against CRC.

Estimated potassium intake and the progression of chronic kidney disease.

Lower potassium intake is associated with a higher risk of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the general population. However, there are no stated recommendations on potassium intake in the CKD population owing to limited evidence of benefits from potassium intake and concerns about the risk of hyperkalaemia. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between potassium intake and CKD progression. A total of 4314 patients aged 18 years or older in Japan were prospectively followed for 5 years using data from the Fukuoka Kidney Disease Registry study. The patients were divided into quartiles according to estimated potassium intake levels assessed by the Tanaka formula from spot urine samples. The primary outcome was CKD progression, which was defined as a composite of a 1.5-fold increase in creatinine concentrations from baseline and development of end-stage kidney disease. We evaluated the relationship between estimated potassium intake and CKD progression using Cox proportional hazards models. A total of 1490 patients showed CKD progression during the follow-up with an incidence rate of 90.1/1000 person-years. Patients in the lowest estimated potassium intake quartile had higher hazard ratios for CKD progression than those in the highest quartiles in the multivariable-adjusted Cox models (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 1.24 [1.03-1.48]). Similarly, each 1-standard deviation decrease in estimated potassium intake as a continuous variable was associated with a higher risk of CKD progression (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval], 1.10 [1.03-1.19]). Lower estimated potassium intake is associated with CKD progression in patients with CKD. Therefore, we recommend adequate potassium intake, taking care not to cause serious adverse events.

Modification of Macronutrient Intake for Prevention of Gout in Japanese People in 2022: 2024 Update

In Japan, the prevalence of gout has increased markedly since the 1960s. Following on from the previous report, the aim of this article is to suggest what macronutrient intake is important for the prevention of gout in Japanese people in 2022 referencing the results of clinical research reported. As the previous report, the author used the data of the Comprehensive Survey of Living Conditions in Japan for the number of gout patients (1986-2022) and the data of the National Health and Nutrition Survey in Japan (1946-2022) for the intake of macronutrients. Macronutrient intake of Japanese people in 2022 were compared with those in 2019. The relationship between the number of gout patients and macronutrient intake in Japanese people was examined. The number of gout patients of Japanese people in 2022 was higher compared to that in 2019 (2019: 1.254 million; 2022: 1.306 million). Almost all gout patients were adults, and the number of gout patients were higher in men than in women. Compared to the Japanese diet in 2019, in the Japanese diet in 2022, the mean ratio of energy intake from protein in total energy intake (Protein/Energy) was the same and the mean ratio of energy intake from fat in total energy intake (Fat/Energy) increased by 0.5% and the mean ratio of energy intake from carbohydrate in total energy intake (Carbohydrate /Energy) decreased by 0.5%. The daily intake of dietary fiber of Japanese men (aged ≥ 15 years) in 2022 was below the Adequate Intakes (AIs) established by the Institute of Medicine of the National Academy of Sciences in the U.S. The Fat/Energy and Saturated fatty acids/Energy and the daily intake of saturated fatty acids, monounsaturated fatty acids, and n-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids were positively correlated with the number of gout patients, respectively. Whereas the Protein/Energy and the daily intake of energy, total carbohydrate, total protein, animal protein, and vegetable protein were negatively correlated with the number of gout patients, respectively. Modification of macronutrient intake for the prevention of gout in Japanese people (especially adults) in 2022 is suggested as follows: reduce the mean ratio of energy intake from saturated fatty acids in total energy intake (Saturated fatty acids/Energy); limiting or decreasing intake of fat, saturated fatty acids, cholesterol; increase intake of carbohydrate (particularly dietary fiber) and protein (particularly animal protein from low-fat dairy products and vegetable protein).

Sex-specific association of total mineral intake with pulmonary function in middle-aged and older adults with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease

The objective of this study is to assess the impact of dietary intake and supplementation of total magnesium, iron, zinc and selenium on pulmonary function in middle-aged to elderly individuals diagnosed with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study utilized publicly available data from NHANES, focusing on the 2007–2012 cycles to include participants aged 50 and above with COPD. The definition of COPD followed the 2024 Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) guidelines. Dietary mineral intake was assessed through two 24-h dietary recall surveys. Pulmonary function assessments included parameters such as forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), forced vital capacity (FVC), forced mid-expiratory flow (FEF 25–75%), and peak expiratory flow (PEF). Sex-specific associations of total magnesium, iron, zinc, and selenium intakes with pulmonary function parameters were assessed using multivariable regression models adjusted by potential covariates. The study sample had a mean age of 64.56 ± 8.26 years, with 35% being female. The median intakes of total magnesium, iron, zinc, and selenium for males were 312.8 mg, 15.6 mg, 14.4 mg, and 127.9 mcg, respectively, while for females, they were 257.5 mg, 12.8 mg, 11.4 mg, and 96.2 mcg. In males, higher total magnesium and iron intake were significantly associated with increased FEV1, FVC, and PEF (P < 0.05), while in females, only total zinc intake showed a positive association with PEF (P < 0.05). Participants meeting the recommended dietary allowance for total magnesium also exhibited significantly better lung function outcomes in both sexes. This study highlights the importance of adequate dietary mineral intake in managing pulmonary health among COPD patients. Enhancing mineral consumption, particularly magnesium, and iron, may be a viable strategy for improving lung function and overall health in this population, especially in men.

Effect of individually tailored nutritional counseling on frailty status in older adults with protein-energy malnutrition or risk of it: an intervention study among home care clients.

Frailty and protein-energy malnutrition (PEM) are common in older home care clients. In this study, we evaluate the effect of individually tailored dietary counseling on frailty status among home care clients with PEM or its risk aged 75 or older with a follow-up of six months. This intervention study is part of the non-randomized population-based Nutrition, Oral Health and Medication (NutOrMed) study in Finland. The frailty was assessed using the abbreviated Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment (aCGA) and included 15 questions from three different domains: cognitive status (MMSE), functional status (ADL, IADL) and depression (GDS-15). The study population consisted of persons with PEM or its risk (intervention group n = 90, control group n = 55). PEM or its risk was defined by MNA score <24 and/or plasma albumin <35 g/l. Registered nutritionist gave individually tailored nutritional counseling for participants at the baseline and nutritional treatment included conventional food items. The mean age was 83.9 in the intervention and 84.3 in the control group. At the baseline frailty prevalence was 74.4% (n = 67) and after six-month 61.1% (n = 55) in the intervention group and, respectively 74.5% (n = 41) and 80.0% (n = 44) in the control group. The intervention decreased significantly (p < 0.001) the prevalence of frailty in the intervention group, while it increased in the control group. Individually tailored nutritional counseling reduces the prevalence of frailty among vulnerable home care clients with PEM or its risk. In the nutritional treatment of frailty, adequate intake of protein and energy should be a cornerstone of treatment.

Development and evaluation of food-based dietary recommendations for New Zealand toddlers using linear and goal programming.

We designed and evaluated food-based dietary recommendations for 12-24-mo-old New Zealand children with linear and goal programming models taking into account intakes of all nutrients concurrently. Dietary data used to define model parameters (food list, food quantities consumed, and food consumption patterns from 3-d weighed food records) were collected from 12-24-mo-old New Zealand toddlers (n = 188). Linear and goal programming models were developed to design and evaluate three sets of recommendations: (1) using all foods consumed by toddlers; (2) excluding commercial infant/toddler foods; and (3) excluding both commercial infant/toddler foods and all iron-fortified foods. Food-based dietary recommendations for toddlers were developed which aligned with observed food consumption patterns: Non-Sweet Cereals: 3 serves/d, Vegetables: 2 serves/d, Fruit: 2 serves/d, Dairy: 2 serves/d, and Meat/Fish/Poultry/Eggs/Legumes/Nuts: 2 serves/d. However, they only ensured adequate intakes of all nutrients modeled if ≈ 500g/d of iron-fortified toddler milk was also recommended. Food-based dietary recommendations that excluded commercial infant/toddler foods or excluded both commercial infant/toddler foods and all iron-fortified foods would not ensure adequate intakes of iron and folate, for all children. The lowest intakes, in simulated intake distributions for these nutrients, were ≤ 29% and ≤ 38% of their nutrient reference values, respectively. Food-based dietary recommendations which successfully promote the consumption of 3 serves/d of Non-Sweet Cereals, 2 serves/d of Vegetables, 2 serves/d of Fruit, 2 serves/d of Dairy (including ≈ 500g/d of iron-fortified toddler milk), and 2 serves/d of Meat/Fish/Poultry/Eggs/Legumes/Nuts should ensure all New Zealand toddlers meet their requirements for the 15 nutrients modeled.

Micronutrient intakes in a young antenatal population—10‐year Retrospective survey at a Sydney hospital clinic

AbstractAimNutritional requirements are increased in young people to support growth, and this is particularly critical when pregnancy occurs within young age groups. The aim was to describe nutritional intakes (with particular emphasis on iron and calcium) and selected pregnancy outcomes, in a young antenatal population aged 14–24 years.MethodA retrospective audit was conducted using 404 records from a young parents' antenatal clinic which included prepregnancy body mass index (BMI), pregnancy weight gain, baby birth weight, nutritional biochemistry, and dietitian assessment of iron and calcium intakes and supplement use. Age groups were compared (adolescents aged 14–18 years versus older 19–24 years clients), and regression analysis was used to explore potential predictors of birth outcomes.ResultsThere was no difference in prepregnancy body mass index for age, pregnancy weight gain, baby birth weight or outcomes, between the age groups. Based on food group serves, intakes were inadequate for iron in 82% of clients and for calcium in 72%. Iron status declined in both groups during the pregnancy, while adolescents had less adequate calcium intake (p = 0.0001). Supplement use was more common in clients with poor iron (p = 0.015) or vitamin D status (p &lt; 0.0001).ConclusionIron and calcium intakes were inadequate in this nutritionally vulnerable population. Further research would be beneficial to identify effective interventions to improve nutrition in this cohort.

Plant-Based Diets in Pediatric Subjects: Heart-Healthy Option or Dangerous Choice?

Plant-based diets (PBDs) are dietary patterns characterized by a certain degree of animal-derived food exclusion. PBDs can be divided into different dietary patterns, from vegetarian to vegan, depending on the degree and the extent of animal-derived food avoidance. PBDs are becoming epidemically popular among the general population, including adult subjects as well as children and adolescents, who often follow the dietary pattern chosen by their families. Our narrative review aims to analyze the most frequently adopted plant-based dietary patterns in children and adolescents and to evaluate their feasibility, advantages, and risks in terms of health promotion and disease prevention in the developmental age. The MEDLINE-PubMed database was searched to collect and select publications from 1980 to 2024. Subjects following these dietary patterns, especially vegan diets, must be under strict nutritional control and receive adequate micronutrients and vitamin supplementation. Nutrition-skilled professionals should be adequately updated and informed about the feasibility and the risks of these different patterns' adoption at different ages, as they should guide and accompany children and adolescents and their families in their nutritional choices without prejudices, granting adequate macronutrient and micronutrient intake, adequate growth and neurodevelopment.

Maternal Characteristics and Iron Intake as a Factors of Iron Deficiency Anemia among Pregnant Women

Pregnancy is a critical period for fetal growth and development, nutritional issues can significantly affect both maternal and fetal health. This phase is marked by increased nutritional needs to support fetal development and maintain maternal well-being. This study investigates the prevalence and risk factors of iron deficiency anemia among pregnant women in Parung Panjang District Health Center, Indonesia. A cross-sectional study was conducted on 92 pregnant women, examining various maternal characteristics and nutrient adequacy levels. The prevalence of anemia was found to be 36%. Parity emerged as a significant factor, with primipara mothers showing a higher anemia rate (46%) compared to multipara mothers (23.8%). Iron intake adequacy was also significantly associated with anemia status (p = 0.050). Women with insufficient iron intake had a higher rate of anemia (45.7%) compared to those with sufficient intake (26.1%). Other factors such as maternal age, education, and vitamin C intake did not show significant associations with anemia. These findings highlight the importance of targeted interventions for primipara mothers and emphasize the crucial role of adequate iron intake during pregnancy. The study underscores the need for comprehensive anemia prevention strategies in prenatal care.

OGC O03 - Clinical Outcomes of Routine Jejunostomy Feeding Following Oesophagectomy

Abstract Background Malnutrition negatively affects treatment outcomes of patients with oesophageal cancer post-oesophagectomy. Chemo(radio)therapy exacerbates nutritional deficits, and thus strategies to ensure adequate nutritional intake are necessary. Feeding jejunostomies are commonly used for nutritional support to maintain nutrition and reduce the effect of complications but may be associated with increased morbidity. This study examines the impact of routine post-operative jejunostomy feeding on postoperative weight loss in patients who have undergone oesophagectomy. Method A retrospective review of patients undergoing oesophagectomy between January 2012-December 2014 and January 2016-December 2019 at a single oesophagogastric unit was performed. Routine post operative feeding with overnight feeding on discharge was introduced in 2015. 507 patients were identified and separated into two groups (245 without routine post operative jejunostomy feeding, 262 with routine feeding). Primary outcomes measured included post operative weight loss (2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months and 6 months). Secondary outcomes investigated included length of hospital stay, complications and long-term survival. Subgroup analyses were performed on patients who have experienced complications and those receiving different treatments. Results Weight loss was less in patients discharged with jejunostomy feeding at 2 weeks, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months (2.92kg vs 5.49kg, 3.39kg vs 6.37kg, 4.81kg vs 7.96kg, 7.25kg vs 9.285kg, p&amp;lt;0.05). In those with complications, routine feeding resulted in less weight loss up to 3 months (p&amp;lt;0.05). Jejunostomy feeding experienced less weight loss in subgroups surgery alone (7.99kg vs 8.72kg, p&amp;lt;0.001), neoadjuvant therapy with surgery (8.02kg vs 9.90kg, p&amp;lt;0.05), and neoadjuvant therapy, surgery with adjuvant therapy (6.29kg vs 9.14kg, p&amp;lt;0.05). Average hospital stay was 16 days with feeding, 19 days without. Long-term survival was greater with jejunostomy feeding (P=0.04). Conclusion Post-operative jejunal feeding is associated with significantly reduced post operative weight loss. This is reflected in patients who received surgery alone, neoadjuvant therapy with surgery and neoadjuvant therapy with surgery and adjuvant therapy. Patients with complications who had routine jejunostomy feeding also experienced significantly less weight loss than those without routine jejunostomy feeding. Routine jejunostomy feeding is associated with a shorter length of hospital stay and is associated with a greater long-term survival.