Intake Of Vitamin Research Articles

Exploring the potential of tocopherols: mechanisms of action and perspectives in the prevention and treatment of breast cancer.

Currently, breast cancer is the most common cause of mortalitycaused by neoplasia in women worldwide. The unmet challenges of conventional cancer therapy are chemoresistance and lack of selectivity, which can lead to serious side effects in patients; therefore,new treatments based on natural compounds that serve as adjuvants in breast cancer therapyare urgently needed. Tocopherols are naturally occurring antioxidant compounds that have shown antitumor activity against several types of cancer, including breast cancer. This review summarizes the antitumoral activity of tocopherols, such as theantiproliferative, apoptotic, anti-invasive, and antioxidant effects of tocopherols, through different molecular mechanisms. According to the studies described, α-T, δ-T and γ-T are the most studied in breast tumor cells; however, α-T and γ-T show a more critical antitumor activity and significant potential as a complements to chemotherapeutic drugs against breast cancer, enhancing toxicity against tumor cells and preventing cytotoxicity in nontumor cells. However, the possible relationship between tocopherol intake, related to concentration,and the promotion of cancer in particular cases should not be ruled out, so additional studies are required to determine the correct dose to obtain the desired antitumor effect. Moreover, nanomicelles of D-α-tocopherol have promising potential as pharmaceutical excipients for drug delivery to improve the cytotoxicity and selectivity of first-line chemotherapeutics against breast cancer.

Risk Factors Associated with Urothelial Bladder Cancer.

Urothelial bladder carcinoma (UBC) is the most frequent histologic form of bladder cancer, constituting 90% of the cases. It is important to know the risk factors of UBC to avoid them and to decrease its recurrence after treatment. The aim of this review was to provide an overview of the risk factors associated with UBC incidence. A comprehensive literature search from 2012 to 2024 was carried out in databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Medline with potential keywords such as "bladder cancer", "urothelial bladder cancer", "incidence of urothelial bladder cancer worldwide", "mortality rate of bladder cancer", "incidence according to gender", "treatment for bladder cancer", and "risk factors of bladder cancer". Smoking tobacco was comprehended to be the major risk factor for UBC. Smoke from tobacco products contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and aromatic amines such as 4-aminobiphenyl, which are known to cause UBC. Smoking-related bladder cancer mortality ranks just second to smoking-related lung cancer mortality. For non-smokers, pollution became a major risk factor associated with UBC. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) are linked to many cancers, especially to UBC. Indoor and outdoor pollution generates VOCs (volatile organic compounds) and PAHs. Small-particle matter < 2.5 is linked to UBC and lung cancers. Drinking chlorinated water is linked to UBC. Also, swimming in chlorinated pools that produce trihalomethanes increases the risk of many cancers, and especially of bladder cancer. Occupational exposure to carcinogens, specifically aromatic amines, is a significant UBC risk factor. It has been estimated that approximately 20% of all UBCs may be linked to this type of exposure, primarily in industrial settings that treat dye, paint, petroleum chemicals, and metal. The other risk factors included genetics, diet, and medical conditions. Alcohol, consumption of processed meat and whole milk, and higher intakes of selenium and vitamins A and E also contribute to the development of UBC. Further, chemotherapeutic agents, oral hypoglycemic drugs, and radiation therapy are positively associated with UBC. The significance of the initial prevention of UBC must be emphasized, and especially programs for quitting cigarettes should be encouraged and supported. However, smoking is not the only risk factor for UBC. For non-smokers, other risk factors should be investigated. Air and water pollution are linked to UBC. Indoor and outdoor pollution should be more controlled. Patients and people should be informed of the risk of drinking chlorinated water and swimming in chlorinated pools.

Potential Associations Between Vitamin Intake and Leukemia: A Cross-Sectional Study

The present study assessed potential associations between vitamin intake and leukemia in a national sample of adults in the United States. A total of 5520 participants were included in this cross-sectional study to investigate the relationship between vitamin intake (including vitamins A, C, D, and E) and leukemia. Results revealed negative associations between vitamin C and E intake and leukemia, whereas associations between vitamin A and D and leukemia were not statistically significant. For vitamin C, compared with the first tertile, the odds ratio (OR) and corresponding 95% confidential interval (CI) was 0.90 (0.75–0.95) for the second tertile and 0.82 (0.61–0.90) for the third tertile (p < 0.01). For vitamin E, compared with the first tertile, the OR and 95% CI was 0.92 (0.80–0.96) for the second tertile and 0.86 (0.71–0.92) for the third tertile (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the inverse relationship between intake of vitamins C and E and leukemia were more evident for individuals ≥60 years of age and those with a body mass index >30 kg/m2. Results of this study provide evidence suggesting that intake of vitamin C and E intake may decrease the prevalence of leukemia; however, further large-scale prospective cohort studies are needed to verify these findings.

The odds of having obesity in Egyptian children with autism spectrum disorders is higher than stunting compared to healthy developing peers: a national survey

BackgroundThe nutritional status and growth of children with Autism spectrum disorders (ASD) is influenced significantly by two factors; food selectivity behaviors due to their consumption of a limited variety of food and the high incidence of gastrointestinal (GIT) disorders.AimThis study aimed to assess the nutritional adequacy and growth pattern of ASD children aged three to twelve years compared to their healthy developing peers.MethodsA national comparative, facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted in eight Egyptian governorates on 285 Egyptian children diagnosed with ASD and 224 children who are their relatives as healthy developing peers. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, including weight, height, head circumference, and mid-upper arm circumference. Body Mass Index (BMI) was calculated and all numbers were plotted on WHO growth charts. Assessment of food preferences, and nutrient intake adequacy of children was done using the Food preference questionnaire, and the Dietary Reference Intakes (DRIs) of Egyptian children.ResultsCalorie-dense food and sugar intake were higher among ASD children than their healthy developing peers. ASD children omit some important protein sources such as dairy (COR = 5.2, 95% CI:2.7–9.9), meat, and poultry (COR = 2.7, 95% CI: 1.6–4.7), and a lower intake of fruits and vegetables than their healthy developing peers. For children with ASD in all age groups, a deficiency in the range of 50–60% was detected for vitamins (C, D, B6, thiamine, riboflavin, niacin) and minerals (iron). A deficiency in the range of 60–70% was detected for folate and calcium. A deficiency of vitamin C calcium and iron was also detected for both children with ASD and their healthy developing relatives aged 6 to 12 years. GIT disorders were common among ASD children compared to healthy developing peers (COR = 2.8 to 10.3). Children with ASD had four-fold higher odds of stunting (COR = 4.1, CI: 1.7–10.1), threefold higher odds of being overweight (COR = 3.3, CI: 1.48–7.32), and nearly eleven-fold higher odds of obesity (COR = 11.4, CI: 4.05–32.17) compared to their healthy developing peers.ConclusionASD children are prone to overweight and protein malnutrition. Their intake of fruits and vegetables is inadequate and hence their intake of vitamins and minerals is insufficient, contributing to stunting.

Investigating the Effects and Mechanisms of Combined Vitamin D and K Supplementation in Postmenopausal Women: An Up-to-Date Comprehensive Review of Clinical Studies.

Aging is a complex process and a significant risk factor for chronic diseases. Menopause, a component of aging in women, is associated with several important cardiometabolic conditions including metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis, and cardiovascular diseases. Menopausal women could benefit from preventative strategies that may decrease morbidity and mortality and improve their quality of life. Vitamins D and K are essential nutrients required for bone health, immune function, and reducing cardiovascular risks, yet their synergistic effect is less understood in aging women. This is the first comprehensive review to summarize the evidence found in randomized clinical trials of the beneficial effects of vitamin D and K co-treatment in postmenopausal women. In our literature search across key electronic databases such as Cochrane, PubMed, and Ovid, we identified 31 pertinent studies. Overall, significant findings indicate that the combined intake of vitamins D and K may positively affect cardiovascular and bone health in postmenopausal women, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy diet rich in vegetables and fermented dairy products. Given the challenges in obtaining all necessary nutrients solely through the diet, vitamin D and K supplements are recommended for postmenopausal women to promote healthy aging and well-being.

Association between dietary vitamin A intake and risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity

The association between vitamin A and single cardiometabolic diseases has been extensively studied, but the relationship between dietary vitamin A intake and the risk of cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) has not been studied. Therefore, the present study was conducted to explore the association with CMM risk by analyzing different sources of vitamin A. This study utilized 13,603 subjects aged ≥ 18 years from 1997 to 2015 from the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS). Dietary intake was calculated from 3 consecutive 24-h dietary recalls combined with a house hold food inventory. CMM is defined as the development of at least two cardiometabolic diseases. After a median follow-up of 9.0 years, there were 1050 new cases of CMM. The risk of CMM was significantly lower in those with higher vitamin A intake (Q1 vs Q5 HR 0.66, 95% CI 0.54–0.81). β-carotene (Q1 vs Q5 HR 0.82, 95% CI 0.66–1.02) and retinol (Q1 vs Q5 HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.48–0.73) intake had a similarly negative correlation. Using restricted cubic spline found an L-shaped relationship between retinol intake and CMM (p non-linear < 0.001). Negative associations were also found in specific CMD groups (hypertension, cardiovascular disease, stroke and diabetes). Dietary intake of vitamin A was negatively associated with CMM risk, and this protective effect was more pronounced in patients with cardiovascular disease. There was an L-shaped association between retinol intake and CMM risk.

The Protective Role Antioxidant of Vitamin C in the Prevention of oral Disease: A Scoping Review of Current Literature.

This review meticulously examined the connection between vitamin C and periodontal disease, as well as the potential of vitamin C to prevent this condition. To gather relevant data, comprehensive electronic searches were conducted across various databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science, focusing on studies that explored the relationship between vitamin C and periodontal disease in individuals aged between 18 and above. From an initial pool of 421 articles, 14 were ultimately chosen for detailed analysis. This selection encompassed seven cross-sectional studies, two case-control studies, two cohort studies, and three randomized controlled trials. The analysis of these studies revealed a consistent negative association between vitamin C intake, as well as its levels in the blood, and the incidence of periodontal disease across all seven cross-sectional studies. This indicates that higher vitamin C intake and blood levels are linked to a decreased risk of developing periodontal disease. In the two case-control studies, individuals suffering from periodontitis were found to have both a lower intake of vitamin C and reduced levels of vitamin C in their blood compared to those without the disease, further underscoring the potential protective role of vitamin C against periodontal disease. The progression of periodontal disease was observed to be more rapid in patients with lower dietary intake or blood levels of vitamin C compared to controls. Regarding the effects of vitamin C administration as an intervention, there was an improvement noted in gingival bleeding among patients with gingivitis; however, no significant benefits were observed in cases of periodontitis, specifically concerning alveolar bone absorption. Through the meticulous examination of available studies, this systematic review underscores the notion that adequate vitamin C intake and maintaining sufficient levels of vitamin C in the blood can contribute significantly to reducing the risk of periodontal disease.

A Comprehensive Investigation of Dietary Micronutrient Intakes and Risk of Alcoholic Liver Disease

BackgroundThe investigation of dietary micronutrient intakes and risk of alcoholic liver disease (ALD) based on observational studies was limited. ObjectivesOur study aimed to explore the associations of 30 dietary micronutrients intakes with risk of ALD, interactions between dietary micronutrients and genetic variation, and mediation effects of blood and urinary biomarkers on the associations between dietary micronutrients and risk of ALD. MethodsA case-control study was conducted within the UK Biobank cohort, with 231 incident ALD cases and 1386 controls. Dietary data were collected using a dietary questionnaire that relied on a 24-h dietary recall of the previous day. Logistic regression models were employed to assess the associations of dietary micronutrient intakes with risk of ALD. We conducted stratified analyses on the associations between dietary micronutrient intakes and risk of ALD by PNPLA3 rs738409 and tested the interactions between dietary micronutrients and genetic variation. In addition, we conducted mediation analyses to investigate the mediating effects of biomarkers on the associations between dietary micronutrients and risk of ALD. ResultsOur findings indicated significant inverse associations of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin equivalent, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, folate, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, iodine, and manganese with risk of ALD (all false discovery rate-Ptrend < 0.050). We also found a significant interaction between PNPLA3 rs738409 and magnesium (Pinteraction = 0.028). Creatinine (enzymatic) in urine, aspartate aminotransferase, and insulin-like growth factor 1 were the top 3 biomarkers with the highest number of significant mediation effects on the associations between the dietary micronutrients and risk of ALD. ConclusionsDietary intakes of thiamin, riboflavin, niacin equivalent, pantothenic acid, vitamin B-6, folate, vitamin E, calcium, magnesium, phosphorus, potassium, copper, iodine, and manganese were inversely associated with risk of ALD.

Poor Eating Habits and Low Physical Activity Contribute to Weight Excess and Increase Cardiometabolic Risk in Adolescents Practicing Soccer as a Recreational Sport.

Monitoring anthropometry, dietary intake, and physical activity (PA) is essential to prevent/counteract childhood obesity. This study examined dietary intake, PA, and anthropometric characteristics in young boys practicing soccer as a recreational sport. A cross-sectional study included 226 boys aged 8 to 13 years participating in soccer as a recreational activity in football academies located in Tunis, Tunisia. Anthropometric measures allowed the calculation of body mass index, fat mass, and peak height velocity as markers of biological maturity. A three-day food record and a food frequency questionnaire estimated nutrient intake and eating habits. The International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used to estimate the PA level of the participants. It was found that a high percentage of the children had excess weight (54%) and excess fat mass (47%). The total energy, carbohydrate, and saturated fat intake of the children exceeded the recommended levels by approximately 10%, 15%, and 30%, respectively. However, the intake of unsaturated fat was below the estimated requirements, particularly in obese children. In addition to the unbalanced macronutrient intake, the children also showed an insufficient intake of many essential micronutrients. Around 60% to 70% of the children in all three groups had a low intake of magnesium, n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), and vitamins B9, B12, and D. Moreover, 20% to 35% of the children in the three groups had an insufficient intake of vitamins A and C. Insufficient vitamin E intake was found in 63% of obese children and 35% of non-obese children. It was observed that the PA level was lower in the overweight/obese group compared to the normal-weight group (p < 0.005). More than three-quarters of overweight/obese children had low PA levels, about 20% were moderately active, and only 1 to 2% were highly active. Conversely, normal-weight children showed moderate to high PA levels. Poor eating behavior, an unbalanced diet, and a low PA level are prevalent in Tunisian boys practicing recreational sports. Such a combination is responsible for a disparity between energy intake and expenditure, contributing to weight excess and increased cardiometabolic risk. The study findings provide meaningful information for practitioners and authorities on applying a balanced diet and adequate PA to prevent and fight against obesity and improve cardiometabolic health in youth.

The relationship between dietary habits and menstruation problems in women: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundNutrition is important to the management and relief of the symptoms in menstrual disorders. This study aims to investigate the relationship between menstrual disorders and specific foods and nutrient intake in women.MethodsFive-hundred-nine menstruating women participated in the study. The questionnaire form was created by the researchers via Google Forms and distributed in online applications (WhatsApp, Instagram etc.). The questionnaire consists of 5 sections, including demographic data, declared anthropometric measurements (height (m or cm), weight (g or kg)), questions about eating habits, menstruation status, and 24-hour food consumption. Statistical analysis was made with SPSS 23; nutrient analysis of food consumption was made using BeBiS 9.0.ResultsIt was found that the body mass index (BMI) of healthy participants was higher than women with menstrual disorders. Women with menstrual disorders have lower intake of protein, vitamin K, vitamin B3, vitamin B5 and sodium compared with healthy women. All participants have a higher intake of vitamin B3, sodium, phosphorus, and manganese, and have a lower intake of other nutrients compared with the national adequate intake.ConclusionOur findings showed that women with menstrual disorders consume more high-sugar food/beverages and have inadequate nutrients intake.

The Combined Effects of the Most Important Dietary Patterns on the Incidence and Prevalence of Chronic Renal Failure: Results from the US National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey and Mendelian Analyses.

We aimed to comprehensively assess the relationship of specific dietary patterns and various nutrients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and its progression. The observational study data were from the NHANES 2005-2020. We calculated four dietary pattern scores (healthy eating index 2020 (HEI-2020), dietary inflammatory index (DII), alternative mediterranean diet (aMed), and dietary approaches to stop hypertension (DASH)) and the intakes of various nutrients and defined CKD, CKD-very high risk, and kidney dialysis. Associations between dietary patterns and nutrients and disease were assessed by means of two logistic regression models. Two-sample MR was performed with various food and nutrients as the exposure and CKD, kidney dialysis as the outcome. Sensitivity analyses were conducted to verify the reliability of the results. A total of 25,167 participants were included in the analyses, of whom 4161 had CKD. HEI-2020, aMed, and DASH were significantly negatively associated with CKD and CKD-very high risk at higher quartiles, while DII was significantly positively associated. A higher intake of vitamins and minerals may reduce the incidence and progression of CKD to varying degrees. The MR results, corrected for false discovery rates, showed that a higher sodium intake was associated with a higher prevalence of CKD (OR: 3.91, 95%CI: 2.55, 5.99). Adhering to the three dietary patterns of HEI-2020, aMed, and DASH and supplementing with vitamins and minerals benefits kidney health.

The role of vitamin C in the prevention of pancreatic cancer: a systematic-review.

The aim of this systematic review was to assess the role of vitamin C in the prevention of pancreatic cancer (PC). A comprehensive literature search was performed in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science up to August 2023, to identify randomized controlled trials (RCT), cohort studies and mendelian randomization studies based on prospective databases assessing the role of vitamin C in PC prevention. A total of twelve studies including European and North-American participants were included: two RCT, three mendelian randomization (MR) studies and seven cohort studies. Both RCT showed high quality in Cochrane risk of bias tool. Only one cohort study had <7 points in Newcastle Ottawa Scale. Both RCT found no association between the intake of 500 mg/day of vitamin C and the incidence of PC. Only one prospective cohort study found an association between vitamin C serum levels and a lower incidence of PC. The remaining cohort studies and MR studies found no association between dietary/supplements intake of vitamin C or circulating vitamin C levels and the incidence of PC. There is no supporting evidence that vitamin C prevents PC development. Future prospective quality studies including high-risk populations are needed.

The International Breakfast Research Initiative—Evaluation and Comparison of Breakfast Nutrient Intakes in Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines with a View to Proposing a Harmonised Nutrient-Based Breakfast Recommendation

The International Breakfast Research Initiative is a global study of breakfast nutrition, involving 17 countries in four continents, aiming to derive nutrient-based regional recommendations for breakfast. This study aimed to propose a harmonised recommendation for three South-East Asian countries: Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines. For each country, data from nationally representative dietary surveys on the contribution of breakfast to daily nutrient intakes at both the adult population level and at the level of the upper tertile of daily nutrient density using the Nutrient Rich Food (NRF) Index were collated and examined. Energy intakes at breakfast ranged from 26 to 27% of daily energy intake. In all three countries, breakfast was carbohydrate-rich, providing 52 to 72% of breakfast energy intake, while it was higher in total and saturated fat in Malaysia and Indonesia. Intakes of fibre and vitamin C were low in all countries, while Malaysia tended to have higher intakes of most minerals, including sodium. Daily and breakfast nutrient intakes (at the population level and in the upper tertile of the NRF Index) were compared to the Codex Alimentarius nutrient reference values (NRVs) to assess adequacy. A decision tree was established based on these data to guide the development of recommendations for nutrient intakes at breakfast across the three countries.

Quantitative Assessment of the Inadequate Intake of Macronutrients, Minerals, and Vitamins Associated with Ultra-Processed Food Consumption.

Studies indicate that ultra-processed food (UP) consumption correlates negatively with essential vitamin and mineral intake and positively with sodium and lipid intake. The objective of this study was to explore the relationship between UP consumption and deviations from nutritional guidelines. An observational, cross-sectional analytical study was conducted on a probability sample of manufacturing workers in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil. Food consumption was assessed with a 24 h recall survey, and nutrient intake inadequacies were calculated as the difference between individuals' intake of energy, macronutrients, minerals and vitamins, and the dietary reference intakes for individuals of the same sex and age group, and then analyzed for trends across the percentage contribution of UP to total energy intake with nonparametric multiple regression adjusted for covariates. The study included 921 workers from 33 industries, 55.9% male, with a mean age of 32 years. Overall, the study population exhibited deficits in energy, all macronutrients, and in some micronutrients. With increasing UP contribution to total energy intake, there is a trend towards a greater intake of energy (p < 0.001), total, saturated, monounsaturated, and trans fats (p < 0.001), n6-polyunsaturated fatty acids (p = 0.03), carbohydrates (p < 0.001), calcium (p = 0.008), and manganese (p < 0.001), thiamin (p < 0.001), and vitamin B6 (p = 0.01); however, this comes with a negative consequence in terms of reducing the protein consumption (p = 0.037), fiber (p = 0.035), copper (p = 0.033), and vitamin E (p = 0.002) intake. The results show that correcting energy and micronutrient deficiencies by increasing UP consumption can also lead to a decrease in diet quality.

Kinanthropometry and dietary habits of non-professional rugby players.

Evaluating the body composition and dietary habits of non-professional athletes can help identify areas for improvement to enhance sports performance. The present study aimed to describe the anthropometric and body composition features, as well as the dietary habits, of non-professional rugby players in Argentina. Fifty-seven rugby players from a Group III Club of the Unión de Rugby de Buenos Aires (URBA) were assessed using extensive anthropometric measurements according to the International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) protocol. Reference data from professional rugby players in Group I clubs were used as a control for body composition comparisons. Dietary intake was evaluated using the 24-h recall method, and nutrient analysis was performed with SARA software. Non-professional rugby players were shorter (Forwards: 175.9 vs. 181.5 cm; Backs: 172.5 vs. 175.7 cm), had higher body fat percentages (Forwards: 16.4 vs. 12.3%; Backs: 11.0 vs. 9.3%), and were less muscular (Forwards: 46.0 vs. 48.8%; Backs: 48.4 vs. 50.2%) compared to professional rugby players. The average dietary intake was 3,363 Kcal, with protein and carbohydrate intakes of 1.4 g kg-1 day-1 and 4.1 g kg-1 day-1, respectively, and 35% of energy intake from fat. Backs reported a higher caloric intake than forwards (3,682 vs. 2,827 Kcal). There was a high prevalence of insufficient intake of calcium (58%), vitamin A (49%), and vitamin C (65%), the latter two corresponding with a low intake of fruits and vegetables (6% of total energy intake). Meal pattern analysis showed that 46% of total energy was ingested at dinner. The body composition of non-professional rugby players from low-income clubs could be improved to enhance rugby performance, as compared to players in more competitive tiers. Economic constraints might contribute to a sub-optimal nutritional profile, potentially affecting body composition and on-field performance negatively. Recommendations to improve dietary intake should be made considering the budget constraints of these players.

Inadequacy of nutrients in children’s diets across seasons along an agricultural intensification gradient in Ethiopia

Although the production-to-consumption pathway is widely promoted to improve diet quality in developing world, its contribution to individual diet and nutrient intake remains unclear. We assessed this relationship among 377 children aged 6 to 59 months in three zones characterized by landscape diversity along an agricultural intensification gradient from the state forest of Munesa to the nearby town of Arsi Negele, Ethiopia during the two harvest seasons. A repeated interactive multiple-pass 24-h recall method was used to collect intake data. Usual intake distributions for energy, protein, iron, zinc and vitamin A were estimated using the National Cancer Institute (NCI) method and compared with estimated average requirement values to determine the prevalence of inadequate intake. The usual intake of protein, zinc and vitamin A among children were inadequate and further exacerbated by seasonality. The extent of nutrient inadequacy was higher in the diverse landscape (“near to forest” zone) than in the less diverse landscape (“distant to forest” zone). However, the diverse landscape tended to provide a better buffering capacity against seasonal energy and nutrient stress than a less diverse landscape. The age of a child positively predicted usual intakes of energy, protein, iron, zinc and vitamin A along the gradient, while breastfeeding negatively predicted these intakes. Most of the food groups and nutrients consumed were derived from on-farm production, whereas fruits and vegetables were via the market. Thus, introduction of nutrient-dense crops and increasing livestock productivity are vital to enhance consumption of diverse diets and thereby nutrients among children.

Prevention and correction of micronutrient deficiencies. What do we know about it?

BACKGROUND: Micronutrient deficiencies, including deficiencies of vitamins and microelements, are a major public health concern worldwide. They are highly prevalent, particularly in developing countries, and have significant health consequences, including anemia, impaired immune function, cognitive impairment, and growth retardation. Micronutrient deficiencies can also contribute to the development of chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Micronutrient deficiencies can also contribute to the development of chronic diseases. AIM: To study the knowledge, interest and motivation of different population groups regarding vitamin and micronutrient intake. MATERIALS AND METHODS: The original questionnaire with 45 questions was completed by 344 respondents: 141 (41%) without medical education, 91 (25.4%) with higher medical education, 112 (32.6%) by students of medical unvesities. RESULTS: Only 100 (29.4%) respondents considered their nutrition balanced. 180 (52.3%) people did not consume vegetables and fruits on a daily basis, 82 (23.3%) respondents almost never consumed fish and seafood. Almost all respondents [335 (97.4%)] took some vitamin and mineral complex at least in one of the periods of their life, 284 (82.6%) — did it without a doctor’s prescription. Female respondents demonstrated a higher level of knowledge about the problem under study: 115 (41.9%) women and only 17 (24.2%) men had checked vitamin D levels (p = 0.006), while 187 (68.2%) women and only 33 (47.1%) men had taken vitamin D (p = 0.006). Those receiving/having higher medical education were more likely to take vitamin D (4.4 times), vitamin B6 (3.8 times), selenium (3 times), and zinc (2.8 times) than non-medical respondents. CONCLUSIONS: The nature of nutrition indicates potential risks of micronutrient imbalance in the respondents. Knowledge about the problem of micronutrient imbalances among the study participants is not systematized. Men and people without medical education have less knowledge on this topic and are less likely to take various micronutrients.

Managing Micronutrient Deficiencies in High-Risk Patients: No Small Feat!

Micronutrients are vital dietary components for growth and development. Adequate intake of vitamins and minerals through diet is crucial for proper biomolecular and cellular functioning. Many developed countries supplement foods and micronutrient deficiencies are less common. However, many disease states impair micronutrient absorption, metabolism, and excretion. Thus, early recognition of the signs and symptoms of micronutrient deficiencies is critical for providers to improve quality of life and prevent complications in high-risk patients. This article reviews the basic function of micronutrients, recognizes the symptoms of each micronutrient deficiency, provides natural sources of intake, and discusses the diagnosis and supplementation of each micronutrient. High risk patients based on disease state for each micronutrient is discussed. In addition, Bariatric patients are a specific group at high risk of micronutrient deficiency and their management and supplementation for treatment is also covered. Micronutrients play a vital role in antioxidant defense, especially in critically ill patients, due to an increase in oxidative stress. Early intervention with high-dose supplementation with vitamin C, vitamin E, zinc and selenium may have beneficial effects. Micronutrients deficiency remains an issue for patients in the developed world. Providers should recognize patients who are at high risk for micronutrients deficiencies and provide proper screening and prompt supplementation after diagnosis to prevent complications of micronutrient deficiencies.

Undernutrition levels in Scottish older-adult population: a secondary data analysis of the Scottish Health Survey 2021

The proportion of the UK population over 65 years old is predicted to increase from 18.7% to 26% by 2066(1). However, healthy life expectancy (HLE) and disability free life expectancy (DLE) are decreasing(2, 3), which is particularly concerning in Scotland which also has the lowest overall life expectancy(4). Diet is a major modifiable factor in healthy aging(5) and should be a target to address declining HLE and DLE, but nutrient deficiencies in over 65s in Scotland are poorly understood. This study aimed to understand the presence and extent of inadequate intake of protein, fibre, vitamins, and minerals within over 60 year olds in Scotland.Secondary data analysis of the Scottish Health Survey 2021(6) was performed. Dietary data of older adults (≥ 60 years old, n = 1344) were analysed for protein, fibre, and micronutrient (from food sources) inadequacies, defined as percentage below estimated average requirement, reference nutrient intake or adequate intake(7, 8). Wald Z-test was used to analyse inadequacy between males and females, and urban and rural populations. Differences between Scottish index of multiple deprivation (SIMD) levels (1 [most deprived] to 5 [least deprived]) were analysed using χ2 test and cellwise sub-analysis(9) with Bonferroni corrections.The percentage of over 60s that had inadequate nutrient intake was highest for vitamin D (97%), fibre (93%), selenium (90%), potassium (79%) and Zinc (65%). Compared to males, females were at a greater risk of undernutrition in 18 of the 25 nutrients analysed, of which 11 were significant (p&lt;0.05). Compared to rural populations, urban populations were at a greater risk of undernutrition in 22 of 25 nutrients analysed, of which 10 were significant. People in SIMD 1 were at a greater risk of undernutrition in 20 of 25 nutrients analysed, of which 14 were significant. 40% of over 60s had inadequate protein intake. Risk of inadequate protein intake was greatest for people in SIMD 1 (56%, p&lt;0.001). 24% of over 60s had inadequate folate intake which was significantly higher in females than males (28% and 18%, respectively; p&lt;.001), urban than rural (26% and 19%, respectively; p&lt;.01), and in SIMD1 (36%; p&lt;.001). Inadequate fibre intake was significantly higher in females than males (95% and 91% respectively, p&lt;.01), and urban than rural (95% and 89%, respectively, p&lt;.001). 26% of over 60s had inadequate calcium intake. Inadequate calcium intake was significantly higher in females than males (25% and 17%, respectively; p&lt;.001).These data highlight a considerable undernutrition risk, both overall and within specific nutrients important for healthy aging, in Scotland’s older adult population. Those in SIMD 1, females, and urban dwelling demographics being particularly vulnerable. Although the extent of potential health implications, are dependent on key aspects such as nutrient absorption and utilisation.

Usual Intake of Vitamin D and CVD-Related Mortality in Statin Users: NHANES 1999–2018

Usual Intake of Vitamin D and CVD-Related Mortality in Statin Users: NHANES 1999–2018