Micronutrient Deficiencies Research Articles

Energy Balance and Dietary Intake in Young Rugby Players during a Pre-Season Micro-Cycle: A Cluster Analysis.

Rugby players must develop excellent levels of conditioning during adolescence. However, this pivotal period of life is also characterized by a surge in biological growth, which further increases the energy and nutritional requirements of this population. This study examined within-individual differences in energy intake (EI) and energy balance (EB) of 46 young rugby players during a pre-season micro-cycle. Two clusters were identified with significantly different characteristics and EB states, suggesting that young rugby players adjust their EI to match their body composition goals. The first cluster is characterized by players with a low body fat% (12.87 ± 2.53). They had a positive EB (330 ± 517 kcal), suggesting a goal of increasing muscle mass. Conversely, the second cluster is characterized by a higher body fat% (23.1 ± 1.6, p < 0.005) and reported a negative, lower EB (-683 ± 425 kcal, p < 0.005), suggesting a goal focused on reducing fat mass. Although our study provides more optimistic results than previous ones regarding the high risk of inadequate EI in young rugby players, we emphasize the importance of rigorous nutritional support, especially for players aiming to lose weight, to avoid severe caloric restriction, as well as the downstream effects of such practices on their nutritional status, given the higher risk of macro- (e.g., CHO < 6 g/kg/d) and micronutrient (e.g., iron < 11 mg/d, calcium < 1300 mg/d, vitamin D < 5 mg/d) deficiencies.

The Correlation between Jordan's Iron Shortage, Vitamin D Status and Anaemia

Background: Both vitamin D and Fe micronutrient deficiencies are common in Jordan, but the association between them is unclear. Iron and vitamin D deficiencies are common disorders that cause a variety of health issues in the population. Objectives: The present study sought to elucidate the potential association between Vitamin D status and iron deficiency anemia in the Jordanian population. Method: The data of 207 persons over the age of 18 who sought periodic medical examinations at family medicine polyclinics were classified as iron deficiency, iron deficiency anemia (IDA), and 25 hydroxy vitamin D(25(OH)D) levels were classified as deficiency, insufficiency, and sufficiency. Serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D(25(OH)D), iron (fe), total iron-binding capacity (TIBC), c- reactive protein (CRP), and other parameters were assessed and compared across groups. Result: 41 participants (20.3 percent) were male (mean age = 40.24±12.79) and 167(79.7 percent) were female (mean age = 35.96±11.21). The number of IDA patients was 62(30%), whereas the number of patients without anemic symptoms was 145. (69.7percent). The mean 25(OH)D levels in individuals with IDA were found to be considerably lower (15.96ng/mL) than in those without (27.85ng/mL) (p-values are 0.001). The mean Hgb, RBCs, Hct, MCV, MCH, MCHC, TIBC, iron, and ferritin levels in the 25(OH)D adequate group were significantly greater than in the deficient and insufficient 25(OH)D groups (P-value 0.0001). The Pearson correlation analysis revealed that the examined parameters, which included Age, HGB, PCV, RBC, MCV, MCH, MCHC, Ferritin, Fe, TIBC, Vitamin D, CRP, and gender, had a positive relationship. Conclusions: the association between vitamin D and ID/IDA was significantly recognized in addition to other factors related to iron. Larger studieswith the inclusion ofmarkers such as hepcidin, vitamin D metabolites may provide a clearer view of this complex association.

Optimization of Vitamin B1, B2, and B6 Absorption in Nang Tay Dum Floating Rice Grains.

As reported by the FAO, in 2022, approximately 735 million people experienced undernourishment, underscoring the critical need for effective strategies to address micronutrient deficiencies. Among these strategies, the mass fortification of staple foods, particularly rice-a dietary staple for half of the global population-has emerged as one of the most effective approaches. Conventional milling processes diminish the nutritional content of rice, necessitating the development of fortification methods to enhance its nutrient profile. This study investigates advanced fortification techniques to improve the nutritional value of rice, focusing on vitamins B1, B2, and B6, with guidelines from the US Institute of Medicine's Dietary Reference Intakes. The results indicate that implementing ultrasonic treatments and optimal soaking conditions (60 °C for 60 min) significantly enhances the absorption of these vitamins. Effective parameters included a concentration of 1500 ppm for vitamin B1 and higher levels for vitamins B2 and B6, with a rice-to-vitamin solution ratio of 1:4. These conditions yielded an absorbed vitamin B1 content of 1050 mg/kg, bringing the fortified rice closer to meeting recommended intake levels. Given the global average daily consumption of 100 g of rice per person, this research demonstrates the feasibility of fortifying rice to address nutrient deficiencies effectively and contribute to improved dietary health worldwide. Further enhancement of vitamin B2 and B6 levels remains essential for optimal fortification, highlighting the potential of fortified rice as a sustainable solution for improving global nutrition.

Need to go Beyond Iron Supplementation for ’Anaemia Mukt Bharat’ amongst Children Under 19 Years – An Ecological Study

Abstract Introduction: Anaemia remains a prevalent issue in India, especially amongst the reproductive age group. This study was conducted to assess the contribution of micronutrient deficiencies beyond iron to this problem. Materials and Methods: Using data from the Comprehensive National Nutritional Survey 2016–2018 and key indicators from the Anaemia Mukt Bharat programme, we evaluated the role of micronutrient deficiencies in anaemia prevalence. Results: Our findings indicate that deficiencies in Vitamin A, B12, D, Zinc and folate significantly contribute to anaemia prevalence. In addition, the coverage of iron supplementation was low across many states and union territories. Conclusions: The current strategy of iron supplementation alone is insufficient. A broader approach, including multiple micronutrient supplementations, is necessary. The implementation of the AMB programme requires introspection with a focus on consistent drug supply and behavioural change campaigns in schools and Anganwadis.

Unravelling the bridge of polyphenol composition and mineralomics in Se biofortified edible Allium species

Selenium is an essential element for the well-being of humans and animals. Micronutrient deficiencies affect over half of the global population. Biofortification of crops with selenium represents an economically sustainable solution to combat this problem. In this study, seven Allium species underwent Se biofortification, via Se soil enrichment with selenate in pots, at three distinct concentration levels and were used to explore the relationship between Se plant internalization, polyphenol composition, and mineral content. Allium species were chosen because they are recognized as secondary accumulators of Se. Plant morphology, as well as the presence of fifteen phenolic acids and flavonoids, were analysed using a UHPLC-DAD system. Mineral content was determined using both ICP-OES and FAES. Se levels were quantified using a validated method based on HG-HR-CS-QT-AAS. Even at the lowest biofortification level, Allium species demonstrated potential as sources of dietary Se, offering viable alternatives to Se supplements, without negatively impacting the main mineral content. Higher biofortification levels led to reduced levels of flavonoids and phenolic acids, accompanied by potential decreases in biomass for certain species. The study highlighted how Se concentration affects key polyphenols like quercetin, gallic acid, and luteolin, although the response varied among species.

Genetic dissection of value-added quality traits and agronomic parameters through genome-wide association mapping in bread wheat (T. aestivum L.).

Bread wheat (T. aestivum) is one of the world's most widely consumed cereals. Since micronutrient deficiencies are becoming more common among people who primarily depend upon cereal-based diets, a need for better-quality wheat varieties has been felt. An association panel of 154 T. aestivum lines was evaluated for the following quality traits: grain appearance (GA) score, grain hardness (GH), phenol reaction (PR) score, protein percent, sodium dodecyl sulfate (SDS) sedimentation value, and test weight (TWt). In addition, the panel was also phenotyped for grain yield and related traits such as days to heading, days to maturity, plant height, and thousand kernel weight for the year 2017-18 at the Borlaug Institute for South Asia (BISA) Ludhiana and Jabalpur sites. We performed a genome-wide association analysis on this panel using 18,351 genotyping-by-sequencing (GBS) markers to find marker-trait associations for quality and grain yield-related traits. We detected 55 single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) marker trait associations (MTAs) for quality-related traits on chromosomes 7B (10), 1A (9), 2A (8), 3B (6), 2B (5), 7A (4), and 1B (3), with 3A, 4A, and 6D, having two and the rest, 4B, 5A, 5B, and 1D, having one each. Additionally, 20 SNP MTAs were detected for yield-related traits based on a field experiment conducted in Ludhiana on 7D (4) and 4D (3) chromosomes, while 44 SNP MTAs were reported for Jabalpur on chromosomes 2D (6), 7A (5), 2A (4), and 4A (4). Utilizing these loci in marker-assisted selection will benefit from further validation studies for these loci to improve hexaploid wheat for better yield and grain quality.

Nutritional analysis of children in Central sulawesi post-earthquake and tsunami: A study based on e-PPGBM data

The earthquake and tsunami on September 28, 2018, in Central Sulawesi had a severe impact on children's health and nutrition, particularly concerning malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies. This study compares the nutritional status of children in disaster-affected areas and areas not affected by disasters. This study employs a cross-sectional design to assess changes in the prevalence of stunting, underweight, and wasting among children aged 6-23 months in Sigi Regency, using data from the e-PPGBM System. The study analyzed data from three periods: before and after the disaster, with data from 10,894 children with data from 10,894 children. Statistical tests identified changes in stunting, underweight, and wasting. The results showed that after the disaster, the average Z-Score of Height-for-Age (HAZ) and Weight-for-Height (WHZ) was significantly lower in the disaster-affected areas compared to the unaffected areas (p = 0.00), indicating a sustainable impact on the growth and nutritional status of children. The conclusion of this study shows a significant decline in children's nutritional status in disaster-affected areas compared to unaffected areas. Prompt action and sustained recovery efforts are crucial to address the long-term impacts on children's growth and nutrition

Biochemical and nutrients profile of asthma patients with perceived food allergy in India- a hospital based case control study

Objective: The current study explored the biochemical and dietary profile of asthma patients with and without perceived food allergy (FA). Methods: A case-controlled study was conducted with 286 patients (143 asthmatics with perceived food allergy and 143 age, sex, SES matched asthmatics with no perceived food allergy) aged 15-40 years. The blood sample was collected, and Food Frequency Questionnaire was recorded for laboratory investigations and nutrients calculation respectively. Relevant biochemical parameters (complete blood picture, total serum IgE etc.) were analyzed in the blood samples and macro and micronutrients (calories, protein, fat, Vit-B complex, Calcium etc.) were calculated and comparisons were made between the cases and controls. Results: Most of the cases had higher BMI (27.5±4.82) than controls (23.3±4.51) (p≤0.05); 59(41.3%) and 46(32.2%) had BMI in the range of 25-30 and &gt;30. The perceived food allergy in asthmatics was associated with biochemical parameters (Hb, TLC, Eosinophil counts, Monocytes, Serum IgE, Serum protein and serum calcium) and nutrients[protein(42.24±7.63g/d), fat(23.86±4.70g/d), thiamine(0.77±0.15mg/d), riboflavin(1.20±0.19mg/d), pyridoxine(1.53±0.16mg/d), folic acid(70.80±8.69µg/d), cobalamine(0.70±0.03 mg/d), ascorbicacid(34.51±4.26mg/d), calcium(304.10±62.36 mg/d), and iron(17.94±4.97 mg/d)] as compared to their counterparts with no perceived food allergy(p≤0.05). Conclusion: Asthmatics eliminate food items based on self-perception which may lead to nutrients deficiency and abnormal blood reports. There is a need to confirm FA diagnosis and develop appropriate framework to manage FA in asthmatics. More studies are needed to estimate association of asthma and food allergy with micronutrient deficiency and Body Mass Index. Key words: asthma, food allergy, laboratory investigations, nutrients intake, body mass index

The Significance of Food Fortification for Prevention of Major Health Challenges due to Micronutrient Deficiencies (MND) for Under 5 Years Children in Bangladesh

Vitamins and minerals, known as micronutrients, are needed in trace levels for healthy growth and development as well as heightened immunity against illness. They need to come from outside sources because the body isn&amp;apos;t able to produce them. Inadequate and inappropriate physical and intellectual development results from malnutrition in vulnerable people, including early childhood, expectant and nursing mothers, and the aged people. Meals fortification is a safe and practical way to boost consumption of macronutrients by providing essential nutrients in meals. Long-term developmental goals are impacted by vitamin deficiencies. In order to raise public awareness of the advantages of food fortification, an educational program is required. An extensive summary of Bangladesh&amp;apos;s current women&amp;apos;s and children&amp;apos;s micronutrient deficient status is provided in this article. This study also covers the effectiveness of current intervention programs as well as their current issues. Almost half of all expectant and nursing mothers suffer from anemia. High levels of deficiencies are associated with several critical factors, including sickness, malabsorption, infestation, inadequate nutrition, and poor cleanliness. There have been several attempts at interventions, and some success has been achieved. Issues with coverage, quality, and compliance still exist. Even though severe deficiencies have been somewhat addressed by current intervention initiatives, micronutrient deficiencies in Bangladesh continue to be a major concern. A more comprehensive strategy is required to enhance the current intervention initiatives. Additionally, fresh approaches of intervention are proposed in order to prevent and treat specific micronutrient deficiencies.

Iron Toxicity in Plants: A Review

Iron (Fe) is an essential micronutrient for plant growth and development. However, increased absorption of iron leads to iron toxicity. This leads to damage to plant cell membranes, decreased growth, productivity, and thus general health. The presence of free iron in cells can lead to an imbalance Redox in cells Pro-oxidant state, thus generating oxidative stress. In plants, iron is involved in chlorophyll synthesis, and is therefore essential for maintaining the structure and function of chloroplasts. Micronutrients in the soil can limit plant growth, even if all other nutrients are available in sufficient quantities. Micronutrient deficiencies are widespread due to the nature of the soil, high pH, low organic matter, salt stress, and persistent drought. High levels of bicarbonate in irrigation water, as well as unbalanced use of fertilizers. Iron (Fe) toxicity is a widespread nutritional disorder. It grows in acidic, sulphurous soils, as well as low sandy soils (i.e. iron is easily reducible) that contain a high percentage of organic matter. Iron toxicity can be reduced by using rice that is tolerant to high levels of iron.

Diet and Nutritional Status of Women of Reproductive Age (15-49 Years) in Indigenous Communities of Attappady, Kerala, India.

The dietary patterns and quality of diets of women of reproductive age (WRA) significantly affect their health and that of their children. The suboptimal diet among women can lead to issues such as intrauterine growth retardation, low birth weight, premature birth, and malnutrition. To examine the dietary patterns and nutrient intake of WRA in the indigenous communities of the Attappady tribal block in Kerala, we conducted a cross-sectional study in 20 randomly selected villages in 2022. The study involved 24 h dietary recall surveys, anthropometric measurements, and estimation of hemoglobin concentration to assess nutrient intake and nutritional status. A total of 446 women aged 15-49 from 423 households participated, with 92 households included in the diet survey. The findings indicated that the diet was primarily based on cereals and root-based starchy staples, with low consumption of dairy products, fruits, and vegetables. The estimated intakes of major nutrients, except for protein, were lower than the recommended dietary allowance (RDA). Nearly 50% of the WRA were malnourished. About 32% of non-pregnant and non-lactating (NPNL) women and 40% of lactating mothers suffered from chronic energy deficiency (BMI < 18.5 kg/m2). Conversely, 13.4% of NPNL women and 15% of lactating mothers were overweight or obese (BMI ≥ 25 kg/m2). A total of 12.5% of adolescent girls aged 15-19 were thin (BAZ < -2 SD), and 10.5% were overweight or obese (BAZ > +1 SD). Since the co-existence of micronutrient deficiencies and undernutrition is rooted in the socio-cultural aspects of indigenous tribes, a culturally sensitive nutrition intervention model would be appropriate for the better health and wellbeing of women in the community.

Interplay Between Infant Nutrition and Malaria Susceptibility in West Africa: Socioeconomic, Environmental, and Cultural Perspectives

In West Africa, infant nutrition plays a pivotal role in determining susceptibility to malaria, a disease that remains a leading cause of child mortality in the region. This review explores the intricate interplay between malnutrition and malaria susceptibility among infants, emphasizing the influence of socioeconomic, environmental, and cultural factors. Malnutrition, particularly protein-energy malnutrition and micronutrient deficiencies, compromises immune function, rendering infants more vulnerable to malaria infections. Conversely, malaria exacerbates nutritional deficiencies, creating a vicious cycle that severely impacts infant health and development. This review examines how traditional beliefs, maternal education, and family dynamics shape infant feeding practices, thereby influencing nutritional status and malaria risk. It also highlights the significance of breastfeeding, the timing of complementary feeding, and the quality of complementary foods in protecting infants against malaria. The review underscores the need for targeted nutritional interventions, such as micronutrient supplementation, fortified foods, and community-based nutrition programs, which are essential in reducing the dual burden of malnutrition and malaria. These interventions must be culturally sensitive and context-specific to effectively improve health outcomes for infants in West Africa. Further, this review illuminates the complex relationship between infant nutrition and malaria susceptibility, advocating for integrated public health strategies that address both malnutrition and malaria within the unique socio-cultural and economic landscape of West Africa. Keywords: Infant Nutrition, Malaria Susceptibility, West Africa, Socioeconomic.

Micronutrient deficiency-induced oxidative stress in plants.

Micronutrients like iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), copper (Cu), manganese (Mn), boron (B), nickel (Ni), and molybdenum (Mo) perform significant roles in the regulation of plant metabolism, growth, and development. Micronutrients, namely Fe, Zn, Cu, Mn, and Ni, are involved in oxidative stress and antioxidant defense as they are cofactors or activators of various antioxidant enzymes, viz., superoxide dismutase (Fe, Cu/Zn, Mn, and Ni), catalase (Fe), and ascorbate peroxidase (Fe). An effort has been made to incorporate recent advances along with classical work done on the micronutrient deficiency-induced oxidative stress and associated antioxidant responses of plants. Deficiency of a micronutrient produces ROS in the cellular compartments. Enzymatic and non-enzymatic antioxidant defense systems are often modulated by micronutrient deficiency to regulate redox balance and scavenge deleterious ROS for the safety of cellular constituents. ROS can strike cellular constituents such as lipids, proteins, and nucleic acids and can destruct cellular membranes and proteins. ROS might act as a signaling molecule and activate the antioxidant proteins by interacting with signaling partners such as respiratory burst oxidase homolog (RBOH), G-proteins, Ca2+, mitogen activated protein kinases (MAPKs), and various transcription factors (TFs). Opinions on probable ROS signaling under micronutrient deficiency have been described in this review. However, further research is required to decipher micronutrient deficiency-induced ROS generation, perception, and associated downstream signaling events, leading to the development of antioxidant responses in plants.

Malnutrition and Allergies: Tipping the Immune Balance towards Health.

Malnutrition, which includes macro- and micronutrient deficiencies, is common in individuals with allergic dermatitis, food allergies, rhinitis, and asthma. Prolonged deficiencies of proteins, minerals, and vitamins promote Th2 inflammation, setting the stage for allergic sensitization. Consequently, malnutrition, which includes micronutrient deficiencies, fosters the development of allergies, while an adequate supply of micronutrients promotes immune cells with regulatory and tolerogenic phenotypes. As protein and micronutrient deficiencies mimic an infection, the body's innate response limits access to these nutrients by reducing their dietary absorption. This review highlights our current understanding of the physiological functions of allergenic proteins, iron, and vitamin A, particularly regarding their reduced bioavailability under inflamed conditions, necessitating different dietary approaches to improve their absorption. Additionally, the role of most allergens as nutrient binders and their involvement in nutritional immunity will be briefly summarized. Their ability to bind nutrients and their close association with immune cells can trigger exaggerated immune responses and allergies in individuals with deficiencies. However, in nutrient-rich conditions, these allergens can also provide nutrients to immune cells and promote health.

Micronutrient deficiencies and the double burden of malnutrition in Vietnamese female adolescents: a national cross-sectional study in 2020

Vietnam is facing a double burden of malnutrition, with increasing prevalence of overweight coexisting with undernutrition (stunting and/or thinness) and micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs). Although malnutrition during female adolescence leads to poor health outcomes with potential intergenerational effects on offspring, no studies have comprehensively investigated MNDs and nutritional status among contemporary Vietnamese female adolescents. Data from 10- to 18-year-old female participants (n=1471) in the nationally-representative Vietnam General Nutrition Survey 2020 were analysed. Blood nutritional biomarkers, anthropometric measurements, and sociodemographic data were collected, and associations between nutrition status and MNDs were analysed; with anaemia, iron deficiency (ID), iron deficiency anaemia, low serum zinc, low serum retinol, and any MNDs as specified outcomes. Prevalence of overweight, stunting, and thinness was 27.2%, 14.3%, and 6.9%, respectively. Low serum zinc was common (39.8%), as was ID (13.4%). Bivariate analyses showed that older age (16-18 years old), ethnic minority status, lower wealth index, and inflammation were associated with MNDs. In adjusted logistic regressions, stunting was associated with increased odds ratio and [95% confidence intervals] of low serum retinol (8.92 [2.26, 35.15], p<0.01), as was thinness (12.25 [3.47, 43.33], p<0.01). Stunting was also associated with increased odds of having any MND (2.06 [1.31, 3.25], p<0.01). More female adolescents were overweight than undernourished in Vietnam in 2020. However, undernutrition, low serum zinc, and ID remain prevalent. Food systems approaches should be considered to stem the stark increase in the double burden of malnutrition in young people living in Vietnam. UK BBSRCBB/T008989/1.

Wholesome Grains in Every Bite: Quinoa Pancake Premix Innovation

The demand for healthier and more nutritious breakfast options has increased, leading to the development of quinoa pancake premixes. Quinoa is a promising ingredient due to its low environmental impact and cultural significance in indigenous cuisines. Its high protein content makes it an excellent choice for plant-based protein sources and its rich fiber, vitamins, and minerals make it an ideal choice for those seeking plant-based protein. Quinoa pancake premixes also have implications for global food security and economic development. As a high-value crop, quinoa production supports smallholder farmers' livelihoods, providing income diversification and poverty alleviation. By integrating quinoa into value-added food products like pancake mixes, economic opportunities can be extended along the entire value chain, promoting inclusive growth in rural communities.Quinoa pancake premixes can address micronutrient deficiencies and food insecurity, particularly in vulnerable populations. By fortifying pancake mixes with micronutrients such as iron, calcium, and vitamins, these products contribute to public health initiatives aimed at combating malnutrition.The formulation process involves balancing ingredients to achieve desired texture, flavor, and nutritional profile. Researchers experiment with various flavor combinations to enhance the taste profile of quinoa pancakes. Market trends reveal a growing demand for quinoa-based products, catering to diverse dietary preferences and offering gluten-free, vegan, and low-carb options. In conclusion, quinoa pancake premix development represents a convergence of culinary innovation, nutritional science, and market trends. By harnessing quinoa's nutritional potency and leveraging advancements in food technology, researchers and food manufacturers can create wholesome breakfast solutions for health-conscious consumers.

Implementation, delivery, and utilization of iron fortified rice supplied through public distribution system across different states in India: An exploratory mixed-method study.

Food fortification with micronutrients is one of the cost-effective and sustainable methods to prevent micronutrient deficiencies at community level. The rice fortified with iron, folic acid, and vitamin B12 is being supplied through various social welfare schemes in India in a phased manner and planned to cover the entire country by March 2024. We have conducted a situational analysis to assess the rollout of fortified rice supplied through the Public Distribution System (PDS) and to evaluate the accessibility, availability, acceptability, and utilization of fortified rice by the beneficiaries of the PDS. This was a mixed-method, sequential exploratory study conducted in six districts from six different states of India that had begun distribution of fortified rice through PDS in pilot mode during 2020-2021. In each district, the district supply officer of the PDS, Food Corporation of India (FCI) or State Food Corporation (SFC) warehouse supervisor, and four Fair Price Shop (FPS) dealers were interviewed. Under each FPS, a minimum of seven beneficiary households were randomly selected and interviewed using a structured questionnaire. The in-depth interviews were conducted with different stakeholders using theme guides. All the interviewed stakeholders were aware about their roles and responsibilities and purpose to distribute fortified rice. There was a continuous supply of fortified rice (across all visited districts) to beneficiaries through a well-established system. Acceptability and compliance to intake of fortified rice was good with no reported gastrointestinal adverse outcomes following fortified rice intake. There was an efficient roll-out of fortified rice though PDS with a good compliance to intake of fortified rice. It is feasible to design and conduct a study to assess the impact of fortified rice on anemia and iron storage at the community level.

The Significance of Prebiotics and Immuno-Nutrients for Assuring the Developmental Milestones in Toddlerhood

The immune system development of children is influenced by the mother&amp;apos;s nutritional state throughout pregnancy as well as the nutrients the unborn kid is exposed to through nursing and other meals. Micronutrients that are important for the development of the immune system in neonates include iron, zinc, and vitamins A, C, D, and E. both probiotics and prebiotics are essential for maintaining a healthy gut microbiota and a robust immune system. While probiotics directly add beneficial bacteria to the gut, prebiotics serve as food for these bacteria, enhancing their growth and activity. Together, they play a vital role in supporting immune function and overall health. Prebiotics also play a significant role in this process by acting as fertilizers to encourage the growth of healthy bacteria in the stomach. Micronutrient deficiencies (MNDs) have an effect on the developing immune system; therefore, a meeting of specialists was arranged to talk about preventative and mitigating strategies. Immunological responses are largely determined by nutrition, and malnutrition is the leading cause of immunodeficiency worldwide. Protein-energy deprivation is associated with a significant decline in cell-mediated immunity, phagocyte activity, complement system, secretory immunoglobulin an antibody concentration, and cytokine production. Certain nutrient deficits cause altered immune responses, even in cases when the deficiency is fairly mild. The immune responses are significantly influenced by micronutrients such as folic acid, zinc, selenium, iron, copper, and vitamins A, C, E, and B-6. Additionally, overeating and obesity reduce immunity. Low birth weight babies&amp;apos; cell-mediated immunity is permanently compromised; this can be somewhat restored by adding more zinc to their diets. Prebiotics are inactive dietary ingredients that, when combined with immuno-nutrients, benefit the host by encouraging the growth and/or activity of a certain kind of bacteria in the colon. Government, development partners, non-governmental organizations, and academia must collaborate to increase the availability of basic and effective nutrition interventions, as well as those that address more stifling issues. These interventions include exclusive breastfeeding, appropriate supplemental feeding, micronutrient supplementation for children, adolescents, pregnant women, and lactating women, managing severe acute malnutrition and deworming, and hygiene interventions. The entire healthcare system needs to be revitalized in order to get over the obstacles that exist at the levels of policy, governance, and service delivery and to create demand for the services at the household level. Priority should also be devoted to stabilizing food prices and managing nutrition following natural disasters.

Effects of Oral Iron Supplements in Pregnancy with IDA in Association with Oxidative Stress

Background: Iron deficiency anemia (IDA) is associated with adverse outcomes related to hemoglobin (Hb) and red cell indices and is now recognized as a major contributor to oxidative stress (OS). Maternal IDA during pregnancy is one of the most common nutritional deficiencies worldwide, exposing both the mother and developing fetus to the risk of OS. This study aims to identify the effects of IDA and oral iron supplements on oxidative stress during pregnancy. Methodology: The IDA group comprised 90 pregnant women between 16 to 20 weeks of gestation. The study lasted 12 weeks with follow-up visits every 4 weeks. Two antioxidant enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and glutathione peroxidase (GSH-Px), were studied as OS parameters. Hemoglobin (Hb), serum ferritin concentration (SFC), and total iron binding capacity (TIBC) were also measured. Results: The study found decreased levels of SOD, Hb, and SFC in the anemic group, which showed significant improvement after iron supplementation. GSH-Px and TIBC values were significantly lower compared to the control group. There was a direct relationship between SOD and Hb levels, with the highest SOD levels observed in conjunction with the highest Hb values. Conclusion: Oral iron administration to treat IDA during pregnancy not only improves hematological parameters but also decreases oxidative stress by improving SOD levels. However, other micronutrient deficiencies might be responsible for the alterations in GSH-Px levels.

Dr. Coluthur Gopalan: Father of Indian Nutrition Science.

Dr. Coluthur Gopalan, a towering figure in nutrition science in India, made seminal contributions that transformed public health and nutrition policy in the country. Born in Salem, Tamil Nadu, in 1918, Dr. Gopalan's illustrious academic journey began at the Christian College High School and Madras Medical College, where he earned his M.D. in General Medicine in 1943. The Bengal Famine of 1942 profoundly influenced his career, steering him towards nutrition research. Awarded the Nuffield Foundation Scholarship, he earned a Ph.D. in nutrition from the University of London in just 30 months. Upon his return to India, he joined the Nutrition Research Laboratories (NRL) in Coonoor in 1949, which later became the National Institute of Nutrition (NIN), where he significantly broadened the scope of nutrition research. Dr. Gopalan's work laid the foundation for pivotal national nutrition programs, such as the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) and the midday meal scheme for schoolchildren. His tenure as Director of NIN (1960-1974) and later as Director General of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) from 1974 to 1979 saw major advancements in addressing malnutrition and emerging issues like overnutrition. His dedication to improving women's and children's nutritional status left a lasting impact on public health in India. Dr. Gopalan's pioneering research on protein-calorie malnutrition, micronutrient deficiencies, and holistic approaches to nutritional problems provided critical insights and guided thenational policies. As an institution builder, he transformed NIN into a premier research center and during his tenure established new research institutes at ICMR, fostering a robust framework for future research. His advocacy ensured that nutrition was prioritized in national development plans, leading to significant health improvements. Internationally recognized, Dr. Gopalan's contributions included efforts to improve global nutrition, earning him numerous accolades. His legacy, encapsulated in the Nutrition Foundation of India, and his several contributionscontinueto be a vital resource for nutritionists and policymakers, ensuring lasting benefits for future generations. Dr. Gopalan's compassionate personality, visionary leadership, and holistic approach have indelibly advanced the nutritional status and health of millions globally.