Food Intake Patterns Research Articles

Dietary Patterns and Their Associations with Symptom Levels Among People with Multiple Sclerosis: A Real-World Digital Study.

The objective of the study was to investigate long-term food intake patterns and establish possible associations between the inferred dietary habits and levels of reported symptoms among people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in Denmark. The present study was designed as a prospective cohort study. Participants were invited to register daily food intake and MS symptoms and were observed during a period of 100days. Dropout and inclusion probabilities were addressed using generalized linear models. Dietary clusters were identified among 163 participants using hierarchical clustering on principal component scores. Associations between the dietary clusters and the levels of self-assessed MS symptoms were estimated using inverse probability weighting. Furthermore, the effect of a person's position on the first and second principal dietary component axis on symptom burden was investigated. Three dietary clusters were identified: a Western dietary cluster, a plant-rich dietary cluster and a varied dietary cluster. Analyses further indicated a vegetables-fish-fruit-whole grain axis and a red-meat-processed-meat axis. The plant-rich dietary cluster showed reduction in symptom burden in nine pre-defined MS symptoms compared to the Western dietary cluster (between 19 and 90% reduction). This reduction was significant for pain and bladder dysfunction as well as across all nine symptoms (pooled p value = 0.012). Related to the two dietary axes, high intake of vegetables resulted in 32-74% reduction in symptom burden compared to low levels of vegetable intake. Across symptoms, this was significant (pooled p value = 0.015), also regarding walking difficulty and fatigue. Three dietary clusters were identified. Compared to levels of self-assessed MS-related symptoms, and adjusted for potential confounders, the results suggested less symptom burden with increased intake of vegetables. Although the research design limits the possibilities of establishing causal inference, the results indicate that general guidelines for healthy diet may be relevant as a tool in coping with MS symptoms.

Examination of onset trajectories and persistence of binge-like eating behavior in mice after intermittent palatable food exposure.

Binge eating is a persistent behavior associated with a chronic course of illness and poor treatment outcomes. While clinical research is unable to capture the full course of binge eating, preclinical approaches offer the opportunity to examine binge-like eating from onset through chronic durations, allowing identification of factors contributing to binge eating persistence. The present study quantified the trajectories of binge-like eating onset and modeled cycles of abstinence/relapse to develop a translational model for binge eating persistence. Adult male and female C57Bl6/J mice were randomized to a binge-like palatable food access schedule (daily 2-hr, 3×/week) or continuous, nonbinge like palatable food access for 12 days (Experiment 1). Persistence of palatable food consumption in both binge-like palatable food access groups was then examined across three cycles of forced abstinence and reexposure to palatable food (incubation) to model the persistence of binge eating in clinical populations. Mice with daily 2-hr palatable food access escalated their intake more than mice in the 3×/week or continuous groups (Experiment 1). This pattern was more pronounced in females. In addition, this pattern of palatable food intake reemerged across multiple cycles of behavioral incubation (Experiment 2). These findings provide a model of binge-like eating in mice that can be used in future studies examining both environmental factors and neural mechanisms contributing to binge eating persistence. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2023 APA, all rights reserved).

The interaction between MC4R gene variant (rs17782313) and dominant dietary patterns on depression in obese and overweight women: a cross sectional study

BackgroundPrevious studies have shown that the minor allele (C allele) for melanocortin 4 receptor (MC4R) rs17782313 may be associated with depressed mood. Moreover, dietary patterns have potentially adverse effects on depression. This study investigates the interactions between the MC4R gene variant (rs17782313) and dietary patterns on depression among Iranian obese and overweight women.MethodsA total of 289 Iranian overweight and obese women, aged 18–50 years, were enrolled in this cross-sectional study. Biochemical, anthropometric, and body composition indices were assessed in all participants. Moreover, MC4R rs17782313, by the restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method, and depression, using the 21-item Depression Anxiety Stress Scales (DASS) questionnaire, were assessed. Food intakes were assessed by completing a 147-item semi-quantitative food frequency questionnaire (FFQ).ResultsBy the use of factor analysis, 2 major dietary patterns were extracted: healthy dietary pattern (HDP) and unhealthy dietary pattern (UDP). Binary logistic analysis showed that individuals with minor allele risk (CC) with high adherence to the unhealthy pattern increased odds for depression (OR: 8.77, 95%CI: -0.86-18.40, P: 0.07), after controlling for confounders. Also, a logical inverse relationship was observed between CT genotype and HDP on depression in the crude and adjusted models (OR: -0.56, 95% CI: -3.69-2.57, P: 0.72) (OR: -4.17, 95% CI: -9.28-0.94, P: 0.11), although this interaction was not statistically significant.ConclusionAccording to the above findings, adherence to unhealthy food intake pattern increases odds of depression in MC4R risk allele (C allele) carriers. To confirm these findings, more studies are needed in the form of clinical trials and prospective studies with higher sample sizes.

Dietary patterns associated with the risk of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women

The purpose of this study is to investigate the association between dietary patterns and the risk associated with osteoporosis in Jordanian postmenopausal women recently diagnosed with osteoporosis. A case–control study design was used to determine nutrient intake, and dietary and lifestyle patterns. Two hundred Jordanian postmenopausal women were enrolled; 100 patients newly diagnosed with osteoporosis, and 100 osteoporosis-free controls, according to the inclusion criteria. Case and control groups were selected from visitors to the University of Jordan Hospital and the Jordanian Osteoporosis Prevention Society. The case-to-control ratio was (1:1). Four dietary patterns were identified in this study and they include: ‘High-Fruits and Vegetables', 'Traditional', 'Unhealthy/Western', and 'High-Proteins', which accounted for 44.7% of the total variance in food intake. The ‘High-Fruits and Vegetables’ dietary pattern showed a decreased likelihood of osteoporosis risk in the fourth quartile [Q4: AOR 0.375, 95% CI (0.154–0.9150), P = 0.031]. On the other hand, the ‘Unhealthy/Western’ and ‘High-Protein’ dietary patterns were positively associated ([Q3: AOR 2.834, 95%CI (1.081–7.430), P = 0.034] and [AQ3: OR 2.601, 95% CI (1.983–6.882), P = 0.045], respectively) with osteoporosis risk in the third quartile. The present results suggest that the 'High-Fruits and Vegetables' dietary pattern may exert a protective effect on the risk of osteoporosis while 'Unhealthy/Western' and 'High-Protein' dietary patterns showed positive effects on the risk of osteoporosis.Graphical

Nutrient Patterns and Bladder Cancer: A Case-Control Study in Iran

To examine the association between nutrient patterns (NP) and the risk of bladder cancer (BC) in the Iranian population, this Hospital-based case-control study was conducted with 306 participants (106 cases and 200 controls). The cases were newly diagnosed with BC (transitional cell carcinoma). Participants’ past year’s dietary intake was obtained via a valid 168-item Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Principal Component Analysis was applied to derive NPs considering the intake of the nutrients. Logistic regression models were used to estimate the odds ratio (ORs) and 95%CIs. Two main NPs were obtained - Mineral Dominant (NP1) and Fat Dominant (NP2). NP1 was characterized by a high loading of folate, total carbohydrate, iron, phosphorus, fiber, total protein, magnesium, potassium, and calcium. NP2 had high loadings of trans-fatty acid (TFA), poly-unsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), total fat, saturated fatty acid (SFA), sodium, and cholesterol. Higher adherence to NP1 pattern significantly decreased the odds of BC (OR = 0.24, 95%CI: 0.09–0.67). In contrast, high adherence to NP2 resulted in almost a five-fold increase in the odds of BC (OR = 5.41, 95%CI: 2.26, 12.95). Variability in nutrient patterns has significant associations with the risk of BC, further highlighting the need to study patterns of nutrient intake rather than single nutrients.

A225 QUANTIFICATION OF BONE DENSITY AND DIETARY RISK FACTORS FOR BONE FRAGILITY IN INFLAMMATORY BOWEL DISEASE

Abstract Background Nutrition and bone fracture risk are intimately related in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). Crohn’s disease (CD) patients are at increased risk of low bone mineral density (BMD) and fractures. This may be due to chronic inflammation, corticosteroid exposure, inadequate consumption of nutrients and minerals such as calcium (ie. lactose intolerance), food aversion, bowel symptoms, and/or possible altered absorption. Fibrostenotic CD is characterized by debilitating strictures where patients are known to alter food intake to avoid obstructive symptoms. However, relationships between food intake patterns and BMD have not been well delineated according to CD phenotypes. Purpose Our study evaluated 1) BMD as measured by dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), and 2) energy intake, dietary components and/or micronutrients in CD patients with strictures versus inflammatory (non-stricture) behaviour. Method In this prospective pilot study, patients > 55 years old with ileal CD strictures or inflammatory behavior were recruited from the University of Calgary IBD clinic. All patients completed hip and spine DXA scans and two dietary assessment questionnaires: 1) The Automated Self-Administered 24-hour Dietary Assessment Tool (ASA24) and 2) the Diet History Questionnaire III (DHQ III). Additional data collected included past fracture history, medication (glucocorticoid exposure), smoking, and surgical history. Standard of care laboratory investigations obtained included C-reactive protein, parathyroid hormone, calcium, albumin, and 25-hydroxyvitamin D. Patients with celiac disease, cirrhosis, heart failure, kidney disease, short gut, estrogen use, and dysphagia were excluded. Independent samples t-test and multi-variable regression analyses was conducted. Result(s) Seventeen patients had stricturing and twelve had non-stricturing CD (demographics Table 1). The mean BMD for non-stricturing CD patients was not significantly different from those with a stricturing CD phenotype (p =0.140). Non-stricture patients consumed significantly more dairy, calcium, and phosphate. For all CD patients, there was a positive correlation with BMD and intake of fat (p=0.03), carbohydrates (p=0.01), fiber (p=0.01), and alcohol (p=0.01). There was no statistically significant difference in corticosteroid exposure or smoking status. 74.7% (11/17) patients with stricturing CD had past bowel resection compared to only one patient with non-stricturing CD. Image Conclusion(s) In this pilot study, there was no difference in BMD between CD patients with and without small bowel strictures despite inflammatory behaviour patients having less surgical resections and consuming more calcium rich foods known to improve BMD. Further studies may delineate the dietary differences among CD phenotypes and provide information for interventions for nutrient supplementation, and a greater understanding of their relationships with BMD. Please acknowledge all funding agencies by checking the applicable boxes below Other Please indicate your source of funding; Koopmans Memorial Research Fund Disclosure of Interest None Declared

Co-expression of diurnal and ultradian rhythms in the plasma metabolome of common voles (Microtus arvalis).

Metabolic rhythms include rapid, ultradian (hourly) dynamics, but it remains unclear what their relationship to circadian metabolic rhythms is, and what role meal timing plays in coordinating these ultradian rhythms in metabolism. Here, we characterized widespread ultradian rhythms under ad libitum feeding conditions in the plasma metabolome of the vole, the gold standard animal model for behavioral ultradian rhythms, naturally expressing ~2-h foraging rhythms throughout the day and night. These ultradian metabolite rhythms co-expressed with diurnal 24-h rhythms in the same metabolites and did not align with food intake patterns. Specifically, under light-dark entrained conditions we showed twice daily entrainment of phase and period of ultradian behavioral rhythms associated with phase adjustment of the ultradian cycle around the light-dark and dark-light transitions. These ultradian activity patterns also drove an ultradian feeding pattern. We used a unique approach to map this behavioral activity/feeding status to high temporal resolution (every 90min) measures of plasma metabolite profiles across the 24-h light-dark cycle. A total of 148 known metabolites were detected in vole plasma. Supervised, discriminant analysis did not group metabolite concentration by feeding status, instead, unsupervised clustering of metabolite time courses revealed clusters of metabolites that exhibited significant ultradian rhythms with periods different from the feeding cycle. Two clusters with dissimilar ultradian dynamics, one lipid-enriched (period=3.4h) and one amino acid-enriched (period=4.1h), both showed co-expression with diurnal cycles. A third cluster solely comprised of glycerophospholipids (specifically ether-linked phosphatidylcholines) expressed an 11.9h ultradian rhythm without co-expressed diurnal rhythmicity. Our findings show coordinated co-expression of diurnal metabolic rhythms with rapid dynamics in feeding and metabolism. These findings reveal that ultradian rhythms are integral to biological timing of metabolic regulation, and will be important in interpreting the impact of circadian desynchrony and meal timing on metabolic rhythms.

Food taboo and dietary habits among low-income people in Kedah, Malaysia

Food beliefs and taboos about certain foods influence the use and consumption of food in the household. Today, especially in rural areas, some people believe certain foods affect health. This practice has resulted in the non-optimized intake of some food categories. As a result, it is not easy to diversify the types of food for daily diet. This study aims to investigate the beliefs and convictions of rural communities in Kedah regarding certain foods that may influence health. This study also identified the pattern of food intake among residents in rural areas of Kedah State following the belief that some foods can affect health. This study focuses on the rural areas of Kedah State, which include Kubang Pasu, Baling, Pendang, Alor Setar, and Kuala Muda districts. A total of 225 farmers in the rural areas of the selected districts were selected using stratified random sampling. The data were analyzed using SPSS 25 and food intake results. The results of the study show that low-income residents in rural areas of Kedah believe that some foods have an impact on health. A total of 37.11% believe that coffee, carbonated drinks, fresh milk, and low-fat milk cause headaches, stomach aches, heartburn, and nausea, followed by 18.66% who admit that spicy foods such as mutton, beef, and durian cause headaches, high blood pressure and skin problems. The impact of the food taboo has resulted in an overall food consumption rate below 29.9 in households of low-income residents in rural areas in Kedah State. The study's findings suggest that the Malaysian Ministry of Health should develop nutrition and health awareness programs and activities for the rural population. At the same time, there is a need for a comprehensive restructuring of the curriculum and syllabus by addressing the need for healthy eating as early as primary school so that nutrition and health awareness can be embedded in early childhood education.

Faktor-Faktor yang Mempengaruhi Kejadian Hipertensi pada Lansia di Desa Sei Rotan Kecamatan Percut Sei Tuan

Hypertension is often called the silent killer. Because hypertension is a deadly disease but is not accompanied by symptoms. Hypertension occurs when the systolic pressure is 140 mmHg or the diastolic pressure is 90 mmHg. This study aims to determine what factors influence the incidence of hypertension in the elderly in Sei Rotan Village, Percut Sei Tuan District. This research is a quantitative descriptive study with a cross sectional research design approach. The results showed that the factors affecting hypertension in the elderly in Sei Rotan Village, Percut Sei Tuan District, were gender, age, education, and lifestyle. Suggestions from this study are that village health cadres should revive one of the preventions of hypertension in the elderly, namely elderly exercise and for the family to pay more attention to food intake patterns for families, especially the elderly.

Hubungan Pengetahuan, Konsumsi Tablet FE Dan Status Gizi Dalam Penanganan Anemia Pada Remaja Putri Di Desa Nania Kota Ambon Tahun 2022

Introduction: Anemia is a condition where the level of hemoglobin (Hb) in the blood is lower than the normal number. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) In 2020 the prevalence of Anemia in adolescents in the world ranges from 40-80%, while in Indonesia itself it is 39,1%, Based on data from all these age groups, women have the highest prevalence of Anemia, including young women. The target for handling Anemia in Maluku province is 30%, and the achievement of handlers is 35%. This shows that the achievement of Anemia treatment has not been maximized and still requires further treatment. Anemia in adolescents has the impact of decreased concentration when carrying out learning activities, and decreased physical fitness can cause growth disorders so that height and weight do not reach normally. Prevention and prevention of Anemia in adolescents can be done by increasing knowledge about the pattern of food intake of iron sources, and routine consumption of iron supplementation by consuming blood-added tablets (FE), therefore, adolescents are expected to be able to apply Anemia prevention measures in daily life. Method: This research is descriptive-analytic by using a cross-sectional approach. The population of this study is young women in Nania Village, Ambon City in 2022. The sample is 63 people. With the Total Population Sampling method. The analysis uses the Chi-Square Test. Results: The results of statistical tests show that there is no relationship between knowledge and Anemia treatment (p-value 0,487) and Nutritional status (p-value of 1,000). There is a relationship between FE Tablet Consumption and Handling of Anemia (p-value 0,003). With an OR value of 0,727; a min value of 0,164; and a max of 3,22. Discussion: there is a significant relationship between the consumption of FE tablets in treating Anemia in adolescent girls with an OR value of 0,727 and affecting a minimum of 0,164% and a maximum of 3,22%. which means the strength of the variable relationship in the strong category. Suggestions are expected for further researchers to examine other variables related to the symptoms of this Anemia treatment.

Dietary patterns and cardiometabolic health: Clinical evidence and mechanism.

For centuries, the search for nutritional interventions to underpin cardiovascular treatment and prevention guidelines has contributed to the rapid development of the field of dietary patterns and cardiometabolic disease (CMD). Numerous studies have demonstrated that healthy dietary patterns with emphasis on food-based recommendations are the gold standard for extending lifespan and reducing the risks of CMD and mortality. Healthy dietary patterns include various permutations of energy restriction, macronutrients, and food intake patterns such as calorie restriction, intermittent fasting, Mediterranean diet, plant-based diets, etc. Early implementation of healthy dietary patterns in patients with CMD is encouraged, but an understanding of the mechanisms by which these patterns trigger cardiometabolic benefits remains incomplete. Hence, this review examined several dietary patterns that may improve cardiometabolic health, including restrictive dietary patterns, regional dietary patterns, and diets based on controlled macronutrients and food groups, summarizing cutting-edge evidence and potential mechanisms for CMD prevention and treatment. Particularly, considering individual differences in responses to dietary composition and nutritional changes in organ tissue diversity, we highlighted the critical role of individual gut microbiota in the crosstalk between diet and CMD and recommend a more precise and dynamic nutritional strategy for CMD by developing dietary patterns based on individual gut microbiota profiles.

Oropharyngeal dysphagia and nutritional status in elderly patients in the chronic post-stroke phases

Cerebrovascular accident is the most common disorder in the older adult population and can impair the swallowing function, resulting in neurogenic dysphagia with greater occurrence in its acute phase. This study aimed to check how the oropharyngeal dysphagia degree impacts the oral intake and nutritional status of older adults affected by cerebrovascular accident in the late stage after stroke. This is a retrospective cross-sectional study. According to the Dysphagia Outcome and Severity Scale (DOSS), three judges classified the oropharyngeal dysphagia after analyzing the instrumental evaluation of swallowing images captured through fiberoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES). The level of oral intake classification (FOIS) was performed by reviewing the usual patterns of food intake reported in the 24-hour food recall, and the nutritional status assessment was performed using data from the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA®) and anthropometric measurements: weight, height, body mass index (BMI), circumferences (arm), skin folds (triceps; biceps; subscapular; suprailiac). Researchers included 25 older adult subjects (14 male and 11 female) with an average age of 72 years old. A positive correlation was found between the oropharyngeal dysphagia degree and FOIS (p=0.051), screening score (p=0.011), and total score (p=0.006) of the MNA® protocol, as well as between the classification of FOIS levels with the BMI (p=0.029) and anthropometric measurements referring to muscle mass – AC (p=0.021), AMC (p=0.010) and AMA (p=0.023). That leads to the conclusion that, although most research individuals had functional swallowing or mild dysphagia, their dysphagia influenced their level of oral intake and nutritional status.

Study Protocol for the Interactions between Dietary Patterns and ARL15 and ADIPOQ Genes Polymorphisms on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors

Background: Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are recognized as one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Studies have shown the impact of genetic predisposition and dietary factors on developing these diseases. Dietary patterns and genetic factors such as polymorphisms related to the level of adiponectin may also interact with each other and produce variances in the effects of these factors on different individuals. The purpose of this study is to investigate the interactions between food intake patterns and polymorphisms on ADIPOQ and ARL15 genes in relation to cardiometabolic risk factors. Methods: This cross-sectional study is conducted on 380 adults (20 to 70 years old) living in Yazd, Iran. Individuals were selected from the participants in Yazd Health Study (YaHS) and its sub-study called Taghziyeh Mardom-e Yazd (TAMYZ) after reviewing the inclusion and exclusion criteria. YaHS is a population-based cohort study which has been conducted on 9962 adults living in Yazd since 2014. In the present study, rotated principle component analysis (PCA) with Varimax rotation is used to identify the major dietary patterns. The polymerase chain reaction-restricted fragment length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) method is used in order to identify rs1501299 and rs6450176 variants (on ADIPOQ and ARL15 genes, respectively). General linear models (GLM) as well as regression models are used to investigate the interactions between the studied genotypes and the extracted dietary patterns. Conclusions: The results of this study can help to personalize dietary recommendations for the prevention of CVDs according to the genetic predisposition of individuals.

Differences in Growth and Dietary and Nutrient Intake Patterns by Breastfeeding Status Over One Year Among Korean Children Aged 24-35 Months.

A previous national study found that Korean children who were breastfed for at least one year had lesser weight gain, lower protein, calcium, and iron intake relative to calories, and different dietary patterns in the second year of life, compared with children weaned before 12 months of age or those who were never breastfed. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate whether growth status, dietary and nutrient intake patterns differed by prolonged breastfeeding (PBF) experience even in the third year of life, when weaning is considered complete. This cross-sectional study was based on the data of children aged 24 to 35 months from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010-2020). Data on anthropometry, dietary behavior, food and nutrient intake, maternal education, and household income were extracted to analyze the association between PBF and growth, dietary and nutrient intake patterns. In the final analysis, 31.6% of the 931 children with a birth weight of ≥ 2.5 kg continued to breastfeed for at least 12 months of age, and their mean breastfeeding (BF) duration was 15.9 months. Children with PBF had significantly less postnatal weight gain than those without (P = 0.006). Regarding food group intake, PBF was significantly associated with lower legume and soy product intake (β [95% confidence interval], -10.688 [-19.314, -2.062], P = 0.015) and higher fruit intake (32.978 [3.349, 62.608], P = 0.029), after adjusting for sex, age in month, total caloric intake, maternal education and household income. Regarding nutrient intake, after adjusting for these variables, PBF had significantly associated with higher dietary fiber (β [95% CI], 1.607 [0.218, 2.996], P = 0.023), iron (0.848 [0.317, 1.380], P = 0.002) and niacin (0.728 [0.222, 1.235], P = 0.005) intake and was significantly associated with lower saturated fatty acid intake (-1.217 [-2.364, -0.071], P = 0.037) and percentage of energy from fat (-1.351 [-2.666, -0.035], P = 0.044). Even in the third year of life, children who have been breastfed for over one year continue to have relatively slow growth. However, they do appear to have better intake of some beneficial nutrients, which may be attributed to healthier dietary intake patterns in children with PBF. The results of this study can be used to support the recommendation of long-term BF for Korean infants and toddlers.

Dietary pattern in women with polycystic ovary syndrome with and without associated non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: A cross-sectional study

IntroductionWomen with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) have a higher prevalence of Nonalcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) than the general population. PCOS and NAFLD have common metabolic risk factors, however, the role of diet in NAFLD development is still uncertain in PCOS women. ObjectiveTo evaluate and compare the dietary patterns and nutritional intake in patients with PCOS with and without NAFLD. MethodCross-sectional study that included patients with PCOS diagnosed according to Rotterdam criteria. All participants were submitted to abdominal ultrasound to investigate liver steatosis. Dietary profile was assessed by 24-hour food recall (24hR), and Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ). Diet quality was assessed by the Healthy Eating Index (HEI) adapted for the Brazilian population. Physical activity practice was also assessed. Results87 participants were included (average age 35.2 ± 5.7 years), among whom, 67 (77%) had NAFLD. The group with PCOS and NAFLD presented higher body mass index (BMI) (34.9 ± 4.5 vs. 30.4 ± 4.9 kg/m2; p = 0.001), Waist Circumference (WC) (103 [97‒113] vs. 95 [87.5‒100] cm; p < 0.001) and were considered physically active less frequently than those without NAFLD (34.3% vs. 60%; p = 0.04). Food intake and dietary patterns assessed by 24hR, FFQ and HEI presented no difference between the groups. ConclusionsPCOS women with coexistent NAFLD had higher BMI, WC and were less physically active than those without NAFLD. Dietary evaluation showed that PCOS women with NAFLD had no significant difference in macro and micronutrients or food group intake and diet quality in comparison to those without NAFLD.

Imbalanced dietary patterns, anthropometric, and body composition profiles amongst adults with Down syndrome

ABSTRACT Introduction: We aimed to analyze the anthropometric and body composition profiles of Down syndrome (DS) adults; to describe their dietary habits, nutrient intake, and physical activity patterns; and to identify the related risk factors which may influence their health status and quality of life. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on a cohort of 23 DS adults (45% women) aged 21-44 years. Anthropometry and body composition were assessed by bioelectrical impedance. Dietary nutrient intake was assessed quantitatively using a 72-h recall. A food frequency questionnaire and the prevention with Mediterranean diet-PREDIMED questionnaire were used for qualitative rating. Results: Higher fat mass (FM) and lower lean mass (LM), bone mass (BM), and waist to hip ratio (WHR) were observed in women compared to men. LM and BM decreased, and body mass index (BMI), FM, and WHR increased with aging (all P < 0.05). Vitamin D and iodine intakes were not met by 70% and 60% of the studied participants, respectively. A total of 82% of the participants consumed less than 5 portions of fruits and vegetables per day and overconsumed food groups such as sweets and snacks and red meat (> 2 times per week). Protein intake showed a significant positive correlation with height (r = 0.489, P < 0.05), whereas fat intake was positively correlated with sweets and snacks (r = 0.521, P < 0.05). Conclusion: The present findings support the existence of poor anthropometric and body composition profiles, and diet quality, underscoring the need for an interdisciplinary team assessment to enhance health and quality of life in DS adults.

The Nutrition Transition and the Double Burden of Malnutrition in Sub-Saharan African Countries: How Do These Countries Compare with the Recommended LANCET COMMISSION Global Diet?

Over the last two decades, many sub-Saharan African (SSA) countries have undergone dietary and nutrition transitions fuelled by rapid urbanisation, economic development, and globalisation. The aim of the current study was to examine outcomes of the nutrition transition and the epidemiologic transition in SSA countries in terms of food intake, health, and socioeconomic and development factors. Food balance sheet data-specifically, per capita energy intake per day and per capita gram intake per day-from the CountrySTAT framework of the Food and Agricultural Organization (FAO) were analysed for major food commodities. Additionally, selected health and development indicators supplied by UNICEF, the WHO and the World Bank were analysed. Four dietary patterns emerged. The diet of the southern African/island cluster (South Africa, Mauritius, Eswatini, Namibia, Cabo Verde, and the outlier Seychelles) resembles a Westernised diet, with median values high on sugar/sweeteners, alcohol, meat, animal fats, eggs, and dairy. On the other hand, the diet of countries in the other three clusters appears to be more traditional, with countries in the desert/semi-arid cluster consuming more cereals and pulses/tree nuts, countries in the tropical coastal cluster consuming more fish and vegetable oils, and countries in the equatorial cluster consuming more starchy roots and fruit and vegetables. The resulting median values of health indicators also indicate a higher prevalence of non-communicable diseases in the southern African/island cluster, whereas stunting and anaemia are higher in the other three clusters. SSA countries are in different stages of the nutrition transition. By superimposing clusters generated using macronutrient intake values on a map of the climatic regions in Africa, one can clearly see the importance of climate on the availability of food and food intake patterns. Climate change presents a great challenge to healthy eating, as the link between climate regions and diets is illustrated.

Oral Cell-Targeted Delivery Systems Constructed of Edible Materials: Advantages and Challenges.

Cell-targeted delivery is an advanced strategy which can effectively solve health problems. However, the presence of synthetic materials in delivery systems may trigger side effects. Therefore, it is necessary to develop cell-targeted delivery systems with excellent biosafety. Edible materials not only exhibit biosafety, but also can be used to construct cell-targeted delivery systems such as ligands, carriers, and nutraceuticals. Moreover, oral administration is the appropriate route for cell-targeted delivery systems constructed of edible materials (CDSEMs), which is the same as the pattern of food intake, resulting in good patient compliance. In this review, relevant studies of oral CDSEMs are collected to summarize the construction method, action mechanism, and health impact. The gastrointestinal stability of delivery systems can be improved by anti-digestible materials. The design of the surface structure, shape, and size of carrier is beneficial to overcoming the mucosal barrier. Additionally, some edible materials show dual functions of a ligand and carrier, which is conductive to simplifying the design of CDSEMs. This review can provide a better understanding and prospect for oral CDSEMs and promote their application in the health field.

Food Intake Pattern and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Patients with Premature Coronary Artery Disease in Iran

Background: There is limited evidence regarding the risk factors and nutritional patterns in patients with premature coronary artery disease (PCAD). This study aims to investigate the relationship between different dietary patterns and risk factors in patients with PCAD.&#x0D; Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted on PCAD patients, including men younger than 55 years and women younger than 65 years, who underwent coronary angiography in the Angiography Department of the Shahid Mohamadi Hospital, Bandar Abbas, Iran. Anthropometric and clinical examination, demographic questionnaires, and containing dietary intake and physical activity questionnaires were filled for all participants.&#x0D; Results: The most prevalent risk factors for obstructive PCAD in the 65 selected patients were family history of coronary artery disease (CAD) (73%), hypertension (52%), and overweight/obesity (50%). Daily consumption of hydrogenated fats (P = 0.008) and high-fat milk (P &lt; 0.001) were significantly higher in obstructive PCAD patients compared to non-obstructive and non-PCAD patients. Daily consumption of fruits was significantly higher in non-obstructive and non-PCAD patients compared to obstructive PCAD patients (P = 0.039).&#x0D; Conclusion: Family history of CAD, hypertension, and obesity were found to be the most common risk factors among obstructive PCAD patients. According to the findings, increased consumption of high-fat milk and hydrogenated fats may increase the risk of PCAD, whereas, daily consumption of fruits may reduce the risk of PCAD.

GLUT2 expression by glial fibrillary acidic protein-positive tanycytes is required for promoting feeding-response to fasting

Feeding behavior is a complex process that depends on the ability of the brain to integrate hormonal and nutritional signals, such as glucose. One glucosensing mechanism relies on the glucose transporter 2 (GLUT2) in the hypothalamus, especially in radial glia-like cells called tanycytes. Here, we analyzed whether a GLUT2-dependent glucosensing mechanism is required for the normal regulation of feeding behavior in GFAP-positive tanycytes. Genetic inactivation of Glut2 in GFAP-expressing tanycytes was performed using Cre/Lox technology. The efficiency of GFAP-tanycyte targeting was analyzed in the anteroposterior and dorsoventral axes by evaluating GFP fluorescence. Feeding behavior, hormonal levels, neuronal activity using c-Fos, and neuropeptide expression were also analyzed in the fasting-to-refeeding transition. In basal conditions, Glut2-inactivated mice had normal food intake and meal patterns. Implementation of a preceeding fasting period led to decreased total food intake and a delay in meal initiation during refeeding. Additionally, Glut2 inactivation increased the number of c-Fos-positive cells in the ventromedial nucleus in response to fasting and a deregulation of Pomc expression in the fasting-to-refeeding transition. Thus, a GLUT2-dependent glucose-sensing mechanism in GFAP-tanycytes is required to control food consumption and promote meal initiation after a fasting period.