Recommended Nutrient Intake Research Articles

Assessment of nutrition facts label utilization and macro-nutrient intake among patients with chronic diseases in Saudi Arabia

ObjectivesTo investigate and compare nutritional label use, influencing factors, and macro-nutrient intake among individuals with chronic diseases and other healthy individuals in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA). DesignA cross-sectional study in KSA. ParticipantsN = 380 males/females aged 18–50 years, healthy and others with chronic diseases. Variables measuredData were collected using a self-reported questionnaire containing chronic disease factors, label use behavior factors and three 24-h dietary recalls. AnalysisSeveral statistical tests were used, including the Chi-square (ᵪ2), the Independent Sample T-test, the ANOVA test, and Pearson's correlation with p-value ≤0.05. ResultsMore chronic disease patients (56.1 %), especially hypercholesterolemia patients, than healthy individuals (43.9 %) reported that they checked and used the information on the nutritional fact labels. All the chronic disease patients consumed less than the recommended nutrient intake (RNI) for carbohydrates and fiber. However, the protein and total fat intake were more than the RNI. The highest intake was among diabetes/at risk of diabetes patients, with an average of 1710.9 kcal. ConclusionsThe present study concluded that chronic disease patients tend to demonstrate superior behaviour in reading food labels compared to those who are healthy. Thus, healthy individuals would benefit from reading the label information, possibly reducing their risk of developing chronic disease.

Nutritional composition and mineral bioavailability of selected root and tuber crops in the Bicol Region, Philippines

Filipinos consume root and tuber crops as inexpensive sources of nourishment. However, the limited information on the nutritional and mineral bioavailability of root and tuber crops inhibits their optimal utilization in what could possibly address nutrient deficiencies among the populations. This study determined the proximate composition of cassava, sweet potato, taro, giant swamp taro, cocoyam, and purple yam through the Association of the Analytical Chemists (AOAC) standard method. The mineral bioavailability was determined in vitro by simulating digestion from the oral up to the intestinal phase. Mineral and trace metal contents were quantified using a Microwave Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometer (MP-AES). The crops’ ash, protein, fat, and total dietary fiber contents ranged from 1.23-3.53%, 2.01-9.32%, 0.18-0.83%, and 4.23-19.3%, respectively. Taro (9.32%) and purple yam (6.71%) have the highest protein contents among the crops examined and can be considered as sources of protein based on the recommended nutrient intake (RENI) for Filipino adults. Except for cassava, most of the studied crops were high sources of total dietary fiber, with the giant swamp taro (48% RENI) as the highest. Total minerals such as K, Ca, Mg, Na, and considerable quantities of Zn, Mn, Fe, and Cu were detected. The mineral bioavailability varied for Zn (47.0-98.0%), Cu (37.5-86.8%), Mn (31.5-91.8%), Mg (31.9-90.2%), Ca (2.54-31.1%) and Fe (4.7-20.7%). Consumption of 100 g of the examined crops, except for giant swamp taro and cassava, can contribute to the daily Cu for adults aged 19-29. Taro contributes to the daily nutritional requirement for bioavailable Ca and Mg, while giant swamp taro contributes to Zn and Mn requirements. None of the examined crops contained sufficient bioavailable Fe to contribute to Filipinos’ daily requirements. The study can help address the limited information on the nutritional and mineral bioavailability of root and tuber crops, which hampers their utilization to address some nutrient deficiency among the Filipino population, and emphasizes the consumption of these crops to enhance dietary diversification, which can alleviate some nutrient deficiencies in the country.

Nutrient composition of dried marine small fish in Bangladesh and their potential to address hidden hunger

This study investigates the nutrient composition of fish powder intended for direct consumption, sourced from seven small fish species indigenous to the Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh. Locally known as chapila, chewa, faissa, ichre, loittya, mola, and olua, these fish were collected, dried to a moisture content consistent with local practices, pulverized, and subjected to analysis for proximate composition, mineral content, vitamin levels, heavy metal presence, and fatty acid profile. While the dried fish samples exhibited high nutritional quality, significant variations were observed among species for each nutrient analyzed. Consequently, no single species emerged as superior when considering all nutritional factors collectively. However, consuming 10 g of dried small fish powder sourced from the analyzed species could potentially fulfill 100% of the recommended nutrient intake (RNI) for protein, calcium, selenium, and vitamin B12 among children aged 6–23 months. Moreover, its serves as a significant source of these nutrients for pregnant or lactating women. Importantly, this intake level does not pose any risk associated with mercury or cadmium content. These findings hold promise as a valuable addition to the national food composition table, offering insights into the utilization of dried small fish from marine sources as a potent tool in the fight against malnutrition.

Association between dietary pattern and Helicobacter pylori infection at Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Kota Kinabalu: A case-control study

BackgroundLimited studies have reported the association between dietary patterns and Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) infection in Sabah. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to assess the association between dietary pattern and H. pylori infection among patients aged 18 years and above that went for first esophagogastroduodenoscopy (OGDS) in 2021 at Queen Elizabeth Hospital (QEH), Kota Kinabalu. MethodsDietary intake of positive H. pylori was compared with healthy subjects by using questionnaire adapted from Malaysian Adult Nutrition Survey (MANS) 2014. Using logistic regression models, we evaluated the association between dietary pattern and H. pylori infection risk. FindingsOur finding identified four dietary patterns, namely “high carbohydrate pattern”, “high fiber pattern”, “high fat/cholesterol pattern” and “high salt pattern”. After adjustment for potential confounders, the highest quartile of “high salt pattern” showed greater odds of H. pylori infection (OR = 1.26; 95% Cl: 1.032–1.459; P = 0.045) than lowest quartile, while highest quartile of “high fiber pattern” demonstrated lower odd of the infection (OR = 0.69; 95% Cl: 0.537–0.829; P = 0.008) than those in lowest quartile. If compared with Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) 2017, positive H. pylori consumed high carbohydrates and sodium with insufficient fiber intake. ConclusionTo conclude, “high fiber pattern” lowers the risk of H. pylori infection while “high salt pattern” increases the infection risk. Our study also highlighted the importance of nutrient intake within daily allowances.

The Effect of Unadjusted Mineral Supplementation on Bone Health of Preterm Infants Fed Fortified Human Milk: An Exploratory Analysis

Background: In standard fortification of human milk (HM), the HM macronutrient content is assumed, and a fixed amount of a multinutrient fortifier is added to achieve recommended nutrient intakes. In target fortification, the HM macronutrient content is regularly measured, guiding the addition of modular macronutrient supplements to the fortified HM, to achieve the nutritional targets more precisely. Objective: The study aimed to investigate whether this addition of modular supplements, unaccompanied by mineral supplementation, predispose to metabolic bone disease (MBD). Methods: This is a secondary analysis of a larger study of infants born with <33 weeks gestational age. Fortifications based on the assumed (Group 1) or measured (Group 2) of the HM macronutrient content were compared, using low serum phosphate levels as an indicator of MBD, and length growth as a surrogate of bone growth. Results: Eighty-four infants were included, 35 in Group 1 and 49 in Group 2. During the exposure period, infants of Group 2 received higher mean fat (6.1 vs. 5.3 g/kg/day, P < 0.001) and carbohydrate (13.0 vs. 11.7 g/kg/day, P < 0.001) intakes; in addition, they exhibited lower mean serum phosphate (5.5 vs. 6.0 mg/dL, P = 0.022) and faster mean length velocity (1.06 vs. 0.89 cm/week, P = 0.003). Conclusions: These findings suggest that feeding fortified HM with extra fat and carbohydrate content, unaccompanied by mineral supplementation, promotes increased bone growth, as indicated by accelerated length growth, but with insufficiently mineralized osteoid, indicated by low serum phosphate levels. Intervention studies using direct biomarkers of bone mass content and mineral density are necessary to corroborate our findings.

A Retrospective Study Evaluating Guideline Adherence of Neonatal Parenteral Nutrition in a Belgian Neonatal Intensive Care Unit.

Introduction Clinical nutrition for preterm and critically ill neonates remains a challenge. Preterms are often hemodynamically and metabolically compromised, which limits infusion volumes of nutrients and hinders achieving recommended nutrient intakes. While guidelines provide recommended ranges for parenteral nutrition (PN) intakes, they generally recommend enteral nutrition as soon as possible. Thus, in clinical practice, gradually increasing EN intakes complicates assessments of PN guideline adherence. Via a pragmatic approach, we assessed adherence to PN recommendations for macronutrients and energy as stated in the 2018 guidelines of the European Society for Paediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (ESPGHAN). Methods In this retrospective study, we assessed the nutrition of preterm and critically ill term neonates from the neonatal intensive care unit of the University Hospital Brussels. We analyzed intakes for the first week of life, in which critically ill neonates at our center usually receive the majority of nutrients via PN. The PN-based provision of macronutrients and energy was analyzed descriptively in relation to the ESPGHAN 2018 recommendations. Results Macronutrients and energy provision gradually increased until they reached recommended or targeted values. Compared to term neonates, energy and lipid provision for preterms increased faster, while amino acid provision exceeded the ESPGHAN 2018 recommendations. Conclusions This study adds clinical practice data to the severely understudied field of the ESPGHAN 2018 PN guideline compliance. Using a pragmatic assessment of our nutrition protocols, we found the need to reduce the amount of amino acids per kg body weight per day to meet guideline recommendations.

A balanced staple food structure effectively curbs the environmental impact and counters the nutrient losses from elevated CO2

The projected rise in atmospheric CO2 levels to 550 ppm by mid-century may reduce protein, iron, and zinc levels in certain cereal crops by 3–17 %. In China, staple foods provide nearly 50 % of total energy and 40 % of essential nutrients, and their cultivation exacerbates environmental stress; adjusting staple food consumption may bring environmental and health benefits. Using China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS) data, this study compared current staple food consumption (SBAU) to an optimized balanced diet scenario with the consumption of whole grains and legumes replaces excessive refined grains. Findings reveal that SBAU falls short of recommended nutrient intake (RNI), while the optimized scenario offsets the nutritional impact of the elevated CO2, exceeding 95 % of the RNI for zinc and iron from staple food. Additionally, transition to the optimized scenario also reduces greenhouse gas emissions and blue water consumption by 7 % and 39 %, respectively.

Potential Contribution of Farmed Fishes to The Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNIs): A Case Study of Farmed Atlantic Salmon (S. salar) and Different Origin Large Rainbow Trout (O. mykiss)

In this study, different source species such as the large rainbow trout (O. mykiss) and Norwegian salmon (S. salar) were compared in terms of nutritional properties. The groups consisted of large rainbow trout of France-origin (Group A), large rainbow trout of local-origin (Group B) and imported Norwegian salmon (Group N). Group B had the highest crude protein content compared to the others. Group N's crude fat, protein and energy content was lower than that of Groups A and B. In the amino acid profile of the groups, lysine, glutamic acid and aspartic acid were determined at high rates, respectively. Group A's PUFA content was similar to that of Group N. The most important factor that makes Groups A and B superior to N, was the higher EPA+DHA, vitamin A, iron and selenium content. Accordingly, it was determined that the crude protein, crude oil, energy values and lysine, EPA+DHA, vitamin A, and selenium contents of large rainbow trout sampled from fish grown in the Black Sea were higher than Norwegian salmon.

Changes in protein requirements of elderly people over 5 years assessed using the indicator amino acid oxidation method

To evaluate the changes in protein requirements of the elderly during the past five years. Based on the previous study of protein requirements of 14 elderly in 2017, 4 of these elderly(70-80 y) were included as study participants and protein requirements were re-evaluated using the indicator amino acid oxidation method. There were seven protein levels: 0.1, 0.3, 0.6, 0.9, 1.2, 1.5 and 1.8 g/(kg·d). Maintenance diets were given for the first two days of each protein level. A stable isotope study was conducted on the day 3, using L-~(13)C-phenylalanine as an indicator on the basis of an amino acid rationed diet, which was orally ingested into the body along with the amino acid rationed diet, and breath and urine samples were collected when the metabolism of L-~(13)C-phenylalanine reached steady state in the body. By measuring the kinetic parameters of labeled amino acids in the samples, a nonlinear mixed-effects model was constructed for the protein intake to be tested and the oxidation rate of labeled amino acids. The mean protein requirement of the study population was determined by the protein intake corresponding to the inflection point of the curve. Based on the production rate of ~(13)CO_2 in exhaled breath of four elderly people at different protein levels, the mean protein requirement was 1.05(95%CI 0.51-1.60) g/(kg·d). The protein recommended nutrient intake was 1.31(95%CI 0.64-2.00) g/(kg·d) was estimated by applying the coefficient of variation of the mean protein requirement to derive the recommended nutrient intake. Protein requirements in the elderly have increased over a five-year period and sarcopenia may be the main cause of increased protein requirements.

Impact of Nutritional Status on Total Brain Tissue Volumes in Preterm Infants.

Preterm infants bypass the crucial in utero period of brain development and are at increased risk of malnutrition. We aimed to determine if their nutritional status is associated with brain tissue volumes at term equivalent age (TEA), applying recently published malnutrition guidelines for preterm infants. We performed a single center retrospective chart review of 198 infants < 30 weeks' gestation between 2018 and 2021. We primarily analyzed the relationship between the manually obtained neonatal MR-based brain tissue volumes with the maximum weight and length z-score. Significant positive linear associations between brain tissue volumes at TEA and weight and length z-scores were found (p < 0.05). Recommended nutrient intake for preterm infants is not routinely achieved despite efforts to optimize nutrition. Neonatal MR-based brain tissue volumes of preterm infants could serve as objective, quantitative and reproducible surrogate parameters of early brain development. Nutrition is a modifiable factor affecting neurodevelopment and these results could perhaps be used as reference data for future timely nutritional interventions to promote optimal brain volume.

Effect of cooking conditions on iron release from pots and development of kinetic models for iron supplementation in NIPs

The World Health Organization (WHO) has identified the use of iron cookware as a potential strategy for alleviating iron deficiency anaemia (IDA) and emphasises the need for action-oriented research in this area. In response to this need, our study systematically investigated the patterns of iron release from various types of cookware under different cooking conditions. Among these, nitrided iron pots (NIPs), the most widely used cookware, were selected for the development of kinetic models to predict iron release efficiently across a range of cooking temperatures and pH levels in food materials. Our results demonstrated that iron release from the pots was significantly influenced by cooking conditions such as the type of cookware, cooking temperatures, cooking times, types of acidic substances, and the pH of the cooking environment. Specifically, higher temperatures, longer cooking times, lower pH levels, and the presence of acetic acid were found to maximise iron release into food. We developed a series of kinetic models—Iron Release-Temperature Models (I, II, and III) and Iron Release-pH Models (IV, V, and VI)—to predict iron release from NIPs. The temperature models are applicable for cooking food with a pH of 5.00–6.00 within a temperature range of 50–100 °C, while the pH models are designed for food with a pH of 3.00–6.00 at boiling temperatures. Validation experiments confirmed the relative accuracy of these models. Additionally, when comparing the predicted iron release with the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) guidelines, the findings support the efficacy of iron pots as a viable method for iron supplementation.

Exploring the nutrient composition of various shellfish available in Norway and their role in providing key nutrients

Shellfish constitute a diverse group of aquatic animals, encompassing numerous species of molluscs and crustaceans able to supply important nutrients beneficial to human health. However, information regarding their nutritional properties remain scarce. In this paper, we explore the nutrient composition of shellfish, including shrimps, mussels, scallops, crabs, crayfish, and lobsters, collected from supermarkets, local fishermen, and the North Atlantic Ocean. By analysing over 800 samples collected between 2011 and 2021, we show that shellfish are able to provide high quantities of protein (8.1–21 g/100 g), essential amino acids, eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) [sum of 0.061–4.3 g/100 g], vitamin B12 (0.82–65 µg/100 g), vitamin E (0.75–28 mg/100 g), zinc (0.61–7.9 mg/100 g), iodine (3.1–2100 µg/100 g), and selenium (7.2–590 µg/100 g). The hepatopancreas of crustaceans was found to be substantially more nutrient-dense than the white meat. Furthermore, the shellfish included in this study cannot be considered good sources of riboflavin, niacin, folate, and vitamin D3. We conclude that shellfish can substantially contribute to recommended nutrient intakes by providing high quantities of key nutrients. The data presented in this paper are an important contribution to the understanding of shellfish as a source of nutrients and to existing food composition databases.

Quality Dietary Intake in Adolescence: Assessment of Macronutrients, Minerals and Essential Amino Acids in School Meals Served in the FCT, North Central Nigeria.

Energy, Macronutrients, Minerals, and Essential Amino Acids (EAA) were assessed from school meals served to adolescents in government boarding Schools in the Federal Capital Territory of Nigeria. Two Hundred and EightySix (286) secondary school students within the age range of 13-19 years were selected for this study. 56.6% of the students were female and the majority (60.8%) were aged 13-16yrs with average age of respondents as (15.75±1.11) and BMI range (17.4-18.37). Stunting (4.2%) and malnutrition prevalence (28%) were low with the majority of adolescents recorded as normal HFA(95.4%). Protein and energy sources were largely plant based, however, carbohydrates made up (28.03%-31.3%) of daily value which was lower than the RNI for adolescents per day. Protein (53.9% – 83.6%) and Fats (65.6%-158.02%) exceeded the RDA for population consumption and Energy (1070±196.7 (Kcal) intake was less than required. However, individual rations for daily consumption of protein, Energy and Fibre fell short of RNI. Moisture content (54.2-58.3%), ash (3.5-5.1%), fat (9.6-15.15%), protein (5.38-8.0%), crude fiber (0.8-1.3%), and carbohydrate (18.9-21%). Meals contained calcium (57.4-65.0mg), potassium (290-460mg), sodium (1030-1500 mg), iron (10.9-12mg), zinc (6.12-7.72mg), Mg (56.5-58.7mg) vitamin A (2.56-6.5 RAE), and vitamin C (0.024-0.041mg) Vitamin D (8.14-11.63mg) per 100 g of the school meals. Calcium, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Potassium were recorded as low for Recommended Nutrient Intake. Essential Amino acid (EAA) levels were quite higher than required per 100g of meal assessed for all nine EAA. In conclusion, dietary diversification of meals can be improved upon, to meet intricate adolescent nutrient needs.

Consumption of critical nutrients and sweeteners related to the risk of chronic diseases in the population of Antioquia, according to the degree of food processing.

To analyze the consumption of critical nutrients and other sweeteners, according to the degree of food processing in the population of Antioquia. Cross-Sectional Study. The dietary intake of 4,382 participants of the Perfil Alimentario y Nutricional de Antioquia 2019 (Antioquia Food and Nutrition Profile 2019) was evaluated. Processed foods (PF) and ultra-processed products (UPP) reported by 24-hour recall were classified according to the Nova system. The Nutrient Profile Model (NPM) of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) was used. The amount of PF and UPP consumed with excess of critical nutrients related to chronic diseases (CD) was measured. The difference in average intake, the prevalence of excess intake, and the likelihood of inadequacy between groups with and without excess dietary content were assessed. Nearly 50% of the PF and UPP consumed had excess in at least one critical nutrient. The population consumed daily one or more products with excess in free sugar (73.3%), total fat (75.2%), saturated fat (77.0%), sodium (83.9%), and/or sweeteners (36.8%). Those who consumed products with excessive amounts had a higher intake of total fat (> 5.8%); saturated fat (> 3.8%); and sodium (> 698.7 mg) in adults and adolescents, in children 5-10 years (> 659.2 mg), and in children under 5 years (> 498 mg). Those who consumed products with excessive amounts presented the greatest possibilities of dietary inadequacy. The population of Antioquia that consumes PF and UPP with excessive amounts of free sugars, total fat, saturated fat, sodium, and/or sweeteners presents an unbalanced diet. Reducing the consumption of these products and returning to a natural and/or minimally processed diet may be an effective strategy to achieve the nutrient intake recommendations prioritized by PAHO in the population of Antioquia.

Comparative Analysis of Amino Acid Profile of Tenualosa Ilisha and Catla Catla and Their Potential Contribution to Recommended Nutrient Intake

Objective: The current study aimed to determine the amino acid profiles and proximate compositions of two commonly consumed fish species of Bangladesh: Tenualosa ilisha and Catla catla, commonly known as Hilsha, the national fish of Bangladesh and Catla, respectively. Methodology: The fish samples were collected from two wholesale fish markets (ghaats) in Dhaka city, the capital of Bangladesh. The Amino Acid content of the selected samples was analyzed by an amino acid analyzer. Fourteen amino acids (eight essential and six non-essential) could be detected by the analyzer. Results: In the case of the essential amino acid content of the samples, threonine, valine, isoleucine, histidine, and lysine content was greater in the Hilsha fish than that of Catla. On the other hand, methionine, leucine, and phenylalanine content were higher in Catla than that in Hilsha. All six non-essential amino acids were found in greater amounts in Hilsha. Concerning the potential contribution (%) of the selected samples to the daily recommended nutrient intake (RNI) of essential amino acids in children (5-10 years), Hilsha fish potentially contributes (&gt;50%) to the daily RNI of threonine, methionine, and lysine and Catla fish potentially contributes (&gt;50%) to the daily RNI of methionine and lysine. In regards to the adult’s RNI, Hilsha potentially contributes (&gt;50%) to the daily RNI of methionine and lysine but Catla was found to contribute potentially (&gt;50%) to the daily RNI of methionine only. Conclusion: Both of the samples were found to be a substantial source of protein and essential amino acids to significantly contribute to the daily RNI of essential amino acids concerning children (5-10 years) for growth and adults for maintenance. Bioresearch Commu. 10(1): 1371-1377, 2024 (January)

Dietary pattern, nutrient intake, and oral symptoms in a sample of pregnant women in Malaysia

Introduction: Nutritional requirements of pregnant women differ considerably from those of non-pregnant women. Nutritional status during pregnancy is critical to maintain health, including oral health, and to promote growth and development of the baby. This study assessed dietary pattern, nutrient intake, and oral symptoms among pregnant women. Methods: Seventy-one women with singleton pregnancy attending a public healthcare centre in Malaysia participated in this cross-sectional study. Dietary pattern and nutrient intake of the women were assessed using food frequency questionnaire and 3-day 24-hour diet recall, respectively. Information on sociodemographic and obstetric profiles, and oral symptoms were obtained from self-administered questionnaire. Results: White rice, chicken, green leafy vegetables, granulated sugar, and salt were foods most consumed. Intakes of iron, folate, vitamin C, vitamin D, calcium, iodine, zinc, and fluoride for most respondents were below Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI). Cavitated tooth (46.5%), bleeding gums (35.2%), pain upon eating and drinking (23.9%), and bad breath (23.9%) were common oral symptoms reported. Significant association was found between complaint of brown, yellow, and white spots on tooth surface with vitamin A intake, and between complaint of bleeding gums with zinc intake. Conclusion: Intake of most nutrients by most respondents in this study was below the RNI. Oral symptoms were common and a few were associated with nutrient intakes.

The nutritive quality comparison of the processed fresh sweet-waxy corn from three regions in China

This study established a nutritive evaluation system to assess fresh sweet-waxy corn and compare the differences in nutritive quality between frozen fresh and vacuum fresh corn. The evaluation system was divided into five parts according to nutrients: (1) fatty acids quality assessed by the fatty acid profiles, nutritional indices, and factor analysis; (2) amino acids evaluation system including amino acids profiles, chemical evaluation indices, amino acids standard spectra, fresh corn and human needs’ matching degree, flavor evaluation, and factor analysis; (3) vitamins and (4) carbohydrates which were evaluated according to their content, (5) minerals quality were decided by content and recommended nutrient intake. Results demonstrated these nutrients had significant differences between the two processing methods. The quality of the fresh corn in different processing methods was examined from a nutritional perspective, and the results would provide reference to the fresh corn nutritive evaluation system’s establishment.

Does an Asian-based Diet Sufficient to Meet the Nutritional Demands of Endurance Athletes?: A Cross-sectional Study

Introduction: Limited studies have examined the dietary intake pattern of Malaysian endurance athletes. Differences in the types of foods consumed between Malaysian and Western population leads to varying nutritional intake values. This study aimed to characterise the dietary intake of Malaysian endurance athletes as compared to sports nutrition recommendations, and to determine the associations between participants’ backgrounds and macronutrients intake status. Methods: A total of 85 endurance-trained Malaysian athletes participated in a cross-sectional study. Dietary intake for three days throughout the training season was evaluated using 24-hour dietary recall. The macronutrients and micronutrients intakes were compared to the nutritional recommendation for athletes and the Recommended Nutrient Intakes (RNI), respectively. The food serving size was compared to the Malaysian Food Pyramid 2020. Results: Of all participants, 51% met the minimum recommendations for carbohydrate (CHO) intake (6g/kg/day). For protein intake, 88% of participants had surpassed the lower limit of 1.2g/kg/day. The lower limit of fat intake (20% of total daily energy intake) was met by 99% of the participants. Most of the participants had a suboptimal intake of calcium, vitamin A, and vitamin E, while all had inadequate vitamin D intake. The athletes’ institution was significantly associated with the CHO intake status. Also, the athletes’ institution and the highest education level were significantly associated with the protein intake status. Conclusion: Athletes who practised Asian-based diets were able to achieve the energy, protein, and fat intake recommendations. However, there was a suboptimal intake of the CHO and micronutrients as compared to the recommendations.

Inadequate intake of energy and nutrients: A comparative cross-sectional study between sport and nonsport science university students of southern Ethiopia.

This study aimed to investigate and compare the energy and selected nutrient intakes of sport science and nonsport science university students of Southern Ethiopia. Multiple-day dietary data were collected from 166 university students (76 sport science and 90 nonsport sciences). Average daily energy and nutrient intake, and inadequate intakes were calculated using NutriSurvey (NS). There were significant differences (p < .05) in the median intakes of energy, total carbohydrate, and vitamin B1 between female students from the sport science and nonsport science groups, but only the median intake of iron was significantly different (p < .05) between the male sport and nonsport science student groups. The prevalence of inadequate intake of vitamin B1 was significantly (p < .05) higher in the male and female from the nonsport science groups compared to the male and female student groups in the sport science, respectively, whereas the prevalence of inadequate iron intake by the male sport science students' group was significantly (p < .05) higher compared to their counterparts. Similarly, the prevalence of inadequate energy among the females from the sport science group was significantly (p < .05) higher compared to the female students from the nonsport science department group. The prevalence of inadequate intake of dietary energy and the majority of the nutrients (protein, fat, vitamin A, B1, B2, and magnesium) were high (>50%) in selected university students. The energy and majority of nutrient intakes by the students in the selected universities of southern Ethiopia were suboptimal. Therefore, activities that will improve the dietary intake of university students should include weekly meal plan revision considering their average recommended nutrient intake (RNI).

An optimisation study to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from adults’ current diet in Italy

Abstract Background Trade-offs between health and sustainability dimensions should be addressed since environmentally sustainable diets can require a substantial dietary shift and result in nutrient deficiencies. The study aimed at modelling the current dietary consumption of the adult population in Italy to reduce diet-related greenhouse gas emission (GHGe) while complying with the National Recommended Energy and Nutrient Intake Levels (LARN), food-based dietary guidelines, and preferences. Methods Food consumption data from the Italian Nutrition &amp; HEalth Survey (INHES) study (n = 8944, 53% females) have been used as reference diet. Through a non-linear programming model, two intermediate nutritionally adequate dietary scenarios, which alternatively minimised the impact on climate change or modifications in current food consumption, have been generated contextually to a final diet model combining both outcomes. Several constraints ranging from recommended dietary intakes to proper food associations and substitutions were applied to the model. Results The final modelled diet had an average energy content of 2100 kcal/d with carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, and fibers accounting respectively for 49%, 16%, 31%, and 4% of the total energy. The associated GHGe were 2.01 kg CO2 eq/d: 49% less than the current diet, 22% more than the balanced diet with the lowest GHGe, and 12% less than the balanced diet closest to actual food consumption. Wholegrain bread, peas, seasonal fruit and vegetables, chicken, tuna, whole milk and extra-virgin olive oil were the most represented products within each corresponding food group. Conclusions The study proposes a balanced and climate-friendly diet which simultaneously minimises changes in food preferences, reducing barriers towards more sustainable food choices. Diet optimisation can be a promising tool to support public health strategies by suggesting less environmentally impactful and culturally acceptable dietary shifts at the country level. Key messages • The present study provides a culturally acceptable and nutritionally balanced dietary scenario optimised for greenhouse gas emissions to be proposed as a model for the adult population in Italy. • The study contributes to the development of public health policies by supporting feasible dietary behavioural shifts towards healthy and sustainable dietary choices.