Nutritional Habits Research Articles

Healthy Nutrition for Adults With Intellectual Disability: Piloting a Mobile Health Application and Self-Management Intervention.

While there are many benefits to healthy nutrition, adults with intellectual disability often have poor nutrition habits. The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the use of a nutrition app and self-management intervention to increase awareness of healthy nutrition choices for adults with intellectual disability. Data was gathered on the effectiveness of the intervention and social validity of intervention components. Through a single-case multiple-baseline across participants design, the mobile nutrition app with self-management intervention was effective in increasing awareness of healthier nutrition items for three adults with an intellectual disability. Future research is needed to replicate and generalize findings, as well as explore additional supports that may be needed for individuals who have more extensive support needs.

Do demographic and obstetric characteristics affect fetal health locus of control among high-risk pregnancies? A Turkish sample

Objectives Fetal health locus of control has been indicated to effect how mothers approach their health beliefs and health-related decisions. The purpose of this study was to determine the fetal health locus of control (FHLC) level in high-risk pregnancies and to evaluate the factors affecting FHLC in high-risk pregnancies. Materials and methods The descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted with highrisk pregnant women. A total of 221 participants were included. Results and Discussion It was shown that The Internality Locus of Control was low and The Chance-Based Locus of Control was high in high-risk pregnant women. The current age of women and the age of their first pregnancy had a positively relationship with Powerful Others Locus of Control (FHLC-P). Although FHLC scores of multigravidas were higher than primiparous, no significant difference was found. Besides, there was a significantly higher FHLC-C score in women who did not change their exercise habits during pregnancy (p=0.008). Although the FHLC-I score was higher in women, who made changes in nutrition habits, it was determined that it was not significant. Conclusion The results of fetal health locus of control in high-risk pregnancies will lead to women who have high-risk pregnancies taking responsibility for adapting to the treatment process, taking into account the controls and making lifestyle changes, rather than leaving the situation to fate. Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol. 23 No. 02 April’24 Page : 438-446

Gamification in nutrition education: the impact and the acceptance of digital game-based intervention for improving nutritional habits

AbstractAs school-based nutrition education interventions have become increasingly popular in recent years, they have proven effective in raising children awareness and responsibility toward good eating habits as well as improving their knowledge, skills, and attitudes. The aim of this work is to evaluate whether a gamification approach, using a digital application developed in AdobeXD, could be an appropriate strategy for increasing attention span toward nutrition education messages when compared to a classical didactic approach. The study involved 126 children aged 7 to 8 years, divided into control group (lesson with nutrition expert supported by slides) and intervention group (interactive lesson via application). A questionnaire was then administered to all participants to assess the knowledge they gained regarding basic nutrition education concepts. An additional questionnaire was distributed to the intervention group for the prototype digital evaluation based on the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) framework. The results show that the digital application has the potential to be an effective tool for producing significant improvements in nutrition knowledge. The greater rating on the usefulness of the content, rather than on other intrinsic features of the prototype, demonstrates that the use of a digital approach can play a key role in capturing new concepts of nutrition education.

Is There an Implication of Nutrition and Lifestyle Habits in Glaucoma Disease? A Systematic Review

Purpose: Glaucoma is a leading cause of blindness in the western world with an estimate to increase the disease’s prevalence. Ophthalmologists can handle the disease with medication, but the implication of nutrition is still neglected due to lack of data. With this review we try to elucidate the relationship between nutritional components and glaucoma disease. Methods: We compiled relevant articles from 1990 until March 2021. From a total of 1334 articles that matched the keywords, we finally included 92 researches. Results: Literature data were reviewed extensively for studies concerning glaucoma patient’s nutritional habits, that also investigated nutrients with antioxidant properties such as vitamins, other components like omega-fatty acids or medicinal plants, lifestyle habits like smoking, physical activity or coffee consumption and body mass index range. Conclusion: It is important to outline to patients that they should follow a diet rich in colorful fruits, vegetables, olive oil and fatty fish. These foods are sources of Vitamins A, C, E, D and minerals. Also smoking cessation, moderate caffeine consumption, frequent physical activity like walking and maintenance of normal BMI should be encouraged. However, further clinical researches are needed for definite conclusions on the implication of diet and medicinal plants in glaucoma.

Seasonal Changes in Body Composition in Elite Male Handball Players

Having knowledge of an athlete's body composition values enables individuals to assess their physical condition and performance. It has become increasingly important in recent years to demonstrate the significant relationship between body composition and athletes' physical performance. The aim of this study is to examine the changes in body composition of elite male handball players during preparation and competition periods (42 weeks). Twenty-three elite male handball players volunteered for this study The Tanita brand body analysis device was used to evaluate body composition and eight measurements were taken. Athletes were divided according to their playing positions (playmakers n=8 and goalkeepers n=4, wings n=7 and pivots n=4). 7 measurements were evaluated, which were weight (W), body fat percentage (BF%), fat mass (FM), muscle mass (MM), total body water (TBW), body mass index (BMI), and basal metabolic rate (BMR). Wing players had lower body fat percentage and body fat mass than all other playing positions and regardless of position, all athletes' body fat percentage and body fat mass significantly decreased at T2 (p<0.05). As a result, increase in body fat percentage and fat mass was observed during the competition period, and this increase continued (p<0.05). The increase in fat mass during the competition period may be due to different training content and higher training intensity during the preparation period, changes in nutrition habits due to camps, long trips, and tournaments, as well as the ef-fects of fatigue and stress. Further studies are needed in these areas.

The Nexus of Training Duration, Body Image, Nutritional Practices, and Mental Health: Insights from a Strength Training Cohort.

This study investigated the intricate relationship between strength training and its effects on body image, psychological health, and nutritional habits. By examining 605 participants, divided into two groups based on training frequency, the research aimed to discern how varying intensities of training influenced different wellness facets. The investigation employed a comprehensive survey, gathering demographic data, training specifics, dietary patterns, and psychological characteristics, utilizing statistical tools for analysis. Results unveiled significant differences in dietary habits and psychological profiles between groups with higher and lower training frequencies. The group with more frequent training displayed less favourable health outcomes and suboptimal dietary habits, challenging the prevailing notion that increased training frequency leads to better health. The study emphasized the necessity of a balanced approach to physical training, highlighting the need for personalized strategies that encompass both physical and mental health considerations. The findings exposed the complexities of training regimens and their broader implications on individual health, suggesting that enhanced training frequency alone does not assure improved health outcomes. This research significantly contributed to the domain by providing insights into how the frequency of strength training could differentially affect health and well-being, offering valuable guidelines for fitness professionals and healthcare providers.

Gender-Based Differences in Psychological, Nutritional, Physical Activity, and Oral Health Factors Associated with Stress in Teachers.

The aim of this study was to analyze gender differences in stress-related factors among active teachers. A cross-sectional study was conducted to examine gender disparities in psychological, nutritional, physical activity, and oral health factors and how these habits correlate with stress and burnout in their work environment. The sample comprised 1037 teachers from Spain, Colombia, and Chile, consisting of 40.1% men and 59.9% women, with an average age of 41 years and teaching experience of 11.8 ± 9.2 and 12.2 ± 8.7 years, respectively. They were evaluated using a compilation of questionnaires with the objective of analyzing gender differences in habits that are associated with stress levels in teachers. The findings revealed that men had significantly higher levels of depersonalization and personal accomplishment, whereas women exhibited higher levels of perceived stress and conscientiousness. Regarding nutritional habits, results were more positive for women, and men exhibited healthier functional habits by engaging in more weekly sports. Regarding oral health habits, women had better oral hygiene practices, brushing their teeth more frequently. However, women showed a higher tendency to smoke than their male counterparts. We conclude that there are notable gender differences that can provide insights for developing strategies to enhance the overall well-being of teachers.

Enhancing the stability of mung bean-based milk: Insights from protein characteristics and raw material selection

Plant-based milk (PBM) alternatives are gaining popularity worldwide as the change of consumers' nutritional habits and health attitudes. Mung beans, recognized for their nutritional value, have gained attention as potential ingredients for PBM. Nevertheless, mung bean-based milk (MBM) faces instability issues common to other plant-based milks. This study investigated the factors influencing MBM stability focusing on raw materials. We selected 6 out of 20 varieties based on their MBM centrifugation sedimentation rates, representing both stable and unstable MBM. Stable MBM exhibited distinct advantages, including reduced separation rate, smaller particle size, lower viscosity, fewer protein aggregates, higher soluble protein content, and increased consumer acceptance. Major nutritional components such as protein, starch, and lipids were not significant different between stable and unstable MBM varieties. The pivotal distinction may lay in the protein properties and composition. Stable MBM varieties exhibited significantly improved protein solubility and emulsion stability, along with elevated concentrations of legume-like acidic subunits, basic 7S proteins, and 28 kDa and 26 kDa vicilin-like subunits. The increasement of these proteins likely contributed to the improvement in protein characteristics that affect MBM stability. These findings offer valuable insights for raw material selection and guidance for future mung bean breeding to enhance mung bean milk production.

Exploring students’ perception of subjective food literacy: A model of educational practice

IntroductionLatest research showed that lower levels of food literacy led to poorer health outcomes and highlighted the importance of nutrition education to improve food literacy for the population. Although evidence at the global level exists, the scientific literature on food literacy in Romania is scarce; therefore, this article aims to explore the perception of subjective food literacy as an outcome of an educational model in a sample of university students from Romania. MethodsThe present study used a qualitative inductive approach using focus groups to explore the results from an educational “learning-by-doing” model regarding the perception of subjective food literacy. The sample consisted of 64 second-year students who participated in a class taught by one of the authors between October 2019 and February 2020 and later agreed to participate in the focus groups. All focus groups were audiotaped following participants’ permission and transcribed verbatim. Data was analyzed with the QSR Nvivo 12 Pro software package using an inductive thematic analysis. ResultsSeveral themes and sub-themes emerged from the focus groups discussing prior information of participants regarding nutrition, change in nutrition knowledge (information about plant protein, information about soy and soy products, information about sugar and its effects on health, and additional nutrition information), modified perception of nutrition and food, dietary habits, short-term behavior changes, and aspects that helped them to have more information about nutrition (construction of the health campaign, pre-testing materials, and support offered by the professors). All participants reported acquiring new information about food and nutrition, modified perceptions about nutritional habits, and even reported short-term behavioral change as an outcome of the educational model. ConclusionsEducational models using a learning-by-doing approach and combining formal and non-formal education can potentially affect students' subjective food literacy. Future research should explore university students' food literacy using evidence-based educational models.

Cultural Influences on Maternal and Child Health Practices. Insights from Juang Tribal Community of Odisha

Inside the Juang tribal group, complex interaction exists between cultural influences and the methods that are used to preserve mother and child health. Because of its location in a distant and culturally diverse region, the Juang community has developed its own distinctive customs, beliefs, and practices, all of which have a substantial influence on the health and happiness of mothers and children. This study provides light on the cultural determinants that influence mother and child health outcomes by conducting an in-depth investigation with the community. An investigation of the traditional birth customs, nutritional habits, and indigenous beliefs toward healthcare, and superstitions that are widespread in the Juang tribal group is presented in this research. The availability of contemporary medical services and their usage, and the part that extended families and community support networks play in the provision of maternal and child care assistance. The usage of traditional medications and herbal cures is also investigated, which offers vital insights into the dynamic relationship that exists between traditional and modern approaches to healthcare.

Epigenetics and diet: how does food regulate our genes?

In recent decades, research into how our cells function using cellular and molecular approaches has further opened our understanding of how homeostasis is disrupted by environmental insults. Unhealthy diet over time generates a wide range of problems that lead to morbidity and mortality. Previously, the causes of diseases were attributed solely to the genetic makeup of individuals, however, epigenetics emerged to help understand how lifestyles can influence the expression of an individual's genes. Therefore, in this review article, we discuss recent evidence indicating that dietary components can modulate gene function through epigenetic control (e.g., DNA methylation, histone modifications, and microRNAs) to maintain homeostasis. In addition, it is discussed what happens when harmful nutritional habits predominant (e.g., high fat and sugar diet and low consumption of vitamins-rich foods); a situation that deteriorates and interrupts the way our genes work. The importance of this field lies in the fact that nutritionists, in the future, could direct personalized nutritional therapies and, above all, they could practice health promotion with an integrated knowledge on how diet regulates our genes.

Food Demand and Nutritional Habits of Consumers During the Covid-19 Outbreak: A Case Study in Türkiye

The Covid-19 pandemic, which has affected the entire world, has caused changes in many areas of life worldwide. These changes have also influenced and continue to influence consumer behaviors. During the restrictions, people staying at home and only going out for essential needs such as grocery shopping has caused changes in their shopping and consumption habits. The changing consumer behaviors related to the process have brought about many studies. Since the outbreak of Covid-19, it has caused significant changes in the attitudes and behaviors of individuals in the world and in Türkiye. Numerous studies have been conducted to understand these changes. The purpose of this study is to examine the effects of the pandemic on the food demand and nutritional habits of individuals residing in Tekirdağ province. To achieve this, a survey was conducted with consumers living in Tekirdağ. According to the research's predicted 10% margin of error and 99% significance level, the sample size was calculated to be 166 people. Factor analysis was applied during the statistical analysis of the findings. Based on the results of the factor analysis, it was found that the desire of individuals to consume organic products and their awareness of healthy nutrition were high. The negative conditions that occurred during the pandemic increased the desire of individuals to eat. It has shown that consumers are more sensitive about healthy eating during the Covid-19 pandemic process. An increase in the consumption of food products that form the basis of a healthy diet, such as fruits, vegetables and eggs, and a corresponding decrease in the consumption of carbonated drinks and prepackaged food also support this finding. However, the high increase in the consumption of pastries and nuts can be given as examples of the negative effects of the need to stay at home and the restriction of physical activities due to the Covid-19 outbreak. In addition, their buying behavior changed, and the number of people who procure food products through online shopping increased. The aim of this study is to inform consumers and researchers working on this subject about how food consumption of consumers has changed after Covid-19.

The Role of Women in Managing Protein Food in Households of Stunting Case in Kulonprogo

Food is a basic need of human life, so any problems around food are very complex. One of the things that have changed is the awareness of protein consumption, both animal and vegetable sources. Lifestyle changes also contribute to changing people's consumption behavior at various social levels. In addition, the role of women in family food management, especially decision-making in purchasing, serving, and consuming food is also influential. Economic limitations are a problem in fulfilling nutrition or diverse food consumption habits, families with stunted toddlers tend not to like diverse foods, especially vegetables and foods derived from protein. Stunting is usually also found in families whose protein consumption is relatively low, either animal protein (meat, eggs, milk, etc.) or vegetable protein (tofu, tempeh, etc.). Kulonprogo is a district in Daerah Istimewa Yogyakarta (Yogyakarta Special Region) that participates in efforts to prevent stunting. According to the 2019 Indonesian Toddler Nutrition Status Survey (ITNSS) data, the stunting rate in Yogyakarta Special Region was 21.0 percent and in 2021 it fell by 17.3 percent. Efforts need to be made to reduce this condition from year to year. This study seeks to approach the problem-solving of this condition. The purpose of this study was to analyze the role of women in managing protein food in households with stunting cases. The study was approached with the behavior of women in purchasing animal and vegetable protein foods in Kulonprogo. The result of the research showed that together the factors of household’s income, women's income, women's age, women's education, number of household members, number of children under five in the family, and information dummy had a significant effect on protein consumption by 52.4% and 47.6% influenced by other factors outside the model. Partially, the most influential factors in protein consumption are household’s income and women's income.

The Relationship Between Sleep Problems, Nutrition Habits and Anthropometric Measurements of School Children

The Relationship Between Sleep Problems, Nutrition Habits and Anthropometric Measurements of School Children

Assessment of Impact of Dietary Patterns on Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients.

Objective Obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) is characterized by episodic cessations of breathing due to upper airway obstruction during sleep, which may cause disturbances in dietary patterns resulting from appetite-related hormonal changes. The aim of the present study was to investigate the relationship between OSAS and nutritional and dietary patterns. Materials and Methods A total of 20 female and 53 male OSAS patients aged > 30 years were enrolled. Demographic data, as well as data on smoking and alcohol habits, were noted, anthropometric measures were made, and a questionnaire regarding chronic diseases including OSAS and four questionnaires on recent food intake frequency and content of nutrition were filled out. The content of nutrition was noted under seven categories: meat, legumes, milk and dairy products, fruits and vegetables, bread and cereals, fat and carbohydrates, and beverages. Results The severity of OSAS (assessed by the apnea-hypopnea index. AHI) was positively correlated with the body mass index (BMI), the circumferences of the waist, chest, and buttocks, and, in males, with the circumference of the neck as well. There was no correlation between the AHI and nutritional habits in terms of the frequency of meals or snacks, the scores on the Snoring, Tiredness, Observed Apnea, and High Blood Pressure-Body Mass Index, Age, Neck Circumference, and Gender (STOP-BANG) Questionnaire and the corresponding macro- and micronutrients. Worsening apnea scores led to increased intake of macronutrients of carbohydrate and protein and micronutrients of niacin and pyridoxine ( p < 0.05), and decreased intake of fat ( p < 0.05). Conclusion The present study demonstrated an association between OSAS severity and recent food intake, manifested in increased intake of carbohydrates, niacin, and pyridoxine, and decreased fat intake.

A Beacon of Health: Ultra-Orthodox Women Graduate with a Bachelor’s Degree in Physical Education

This study examines the effect of a physical education bachelor’s degree program on the healthy lifestyle practices of ultra-Orthodox women. The study included 59 physical education teacher education (PETE) graduates and a group of 78 ultra-Orthodox women who specialized in “healthy activity” at a seminar. Variance analyses were used to analyze the data. The results indicate a significant improvement in the physical activity and nutrition habits of the PETE graduate women compared with the seminar trainee group. This comparative study provides evidence of the positive impact of higher education on the health behaviors of ultra-Orthodox women.

Descriptive Analysis of Carrier and Affected Hereditary Fructose Intolerance in Women during Pregnancy.

(1) Background: Hereditary fructose intolerance (HFI) is a rare autosomal recessive metabolic disorder resulting from aldolase B deficiency, requiring a fructose, sorbitol and sucrose (FSS)-free diet. Limited information exists on the relationship between pregnancy outcomes and HFI. This study aims to analyze pregnancy-related factors in a cohort of thirty Spanish women, with twenty-three being carriers and seven being HFI-affected (45 pregnancies). (2) Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional and retrospective study utilized an anonymous questionnaire. (3) Results: Findings encompassed physical and emotional states, nutritional habits, pathology development and baby information. Notable results include improved physical and emotional states compared to the general population, with conventional analyses mostly within normal ranges. Persistent issues after pregnancy included hepatic steatosis, liver adenomas and hemangiomas. Carrier mothers' babies exhibited higher weight than those of patient mothers, while the weights of carrier children born with HFI were similar to disease-affected children. (4) Conclusions: Pregnant women with HFI did not significantly differ in physical and emotional states, except for nausea, vomiting, and cravings. Post-pregnancy, HFI patients and carriers exhibited persistent hepatic issues. Significantly, babies born to HFI-affected mothers had lower weights. This study sheds light on pregnancy outcomes in HFI, emphasizing potential complications and the need for ongoing monitoring and care.

CONCEPT OF VIRUDDHA AAHARA IN ACCORDANCE WITH TODAY’S SCENARIO – A REVIEW

Viruddha Ahara, an ancient concept in Ayurveda, elucidates the adverse effects of incompatible food combina-tions on health. While rooted in traditional wisdom, its relevance persists in contemporary dietary practices. This abstract explores the concept of Viruddha Ahara in today's scenario, shedding light on its significance amidst evolving dietary trends and lifestyles. In the modern era, the accessibility to diverse cuisines and the fusion of culinary traditions have led to the adoption of novel nutritional habits. However, amidst this culinary diversity, the principles of food compatibility outlined in Viruddha Ahara remain pertinent. The ingestion of incompatible food combinations can disrupt the digestive process, leading to various health complications such as indigestion, bloating, and nutrient malabsorption. Furthermore, the prevalence of processed foods and fast-paced lifestyles has accentuated the consumption of con-venience foods, often comprising ingredients that may clash in terms of their properties and effects on the body. Moreover, the rise of dietary fats and restrictive eating patterns has spurred the popularity of unconventional food combinations in pursuit of purported health benefits. However, the indiscriminate amalgamation of foods without considering their compatibility can undermine nutritional balance and compromise overall well-being. Integrating the principles of food compatibility into contemporary nutrition education and dietary guidelines can empower individuals to make informed choices that support optimal digestion and health. Embracing a holistic approach to nutrition that honours traditional wisdom and scientific insights can foster a balanced relationship with food, promoting vitality and resilience in today's fast-paced world.

Investigation of the nutritional habits of students receiving coaching education: a cross-sectional study

Background and Study Aim. The aim of this study is to examine the nutritional knowledge levels and habits of the students who will work in the field of sport sciences in Turkey and who are studying in the Faculties of Sport Sciences. Material and Methods. The sample of the study consisted of 186 volunteer university students studying in the coaching departments of the Faculties of Sport Sciences, selected by simple random sampling method. General scanning model was used in the research. The data in the study were collected using the 32-item “Nutrition Knowledge Scale for Adults”. Results. Within the scope of the scores in both sub-dimensions of the scale, it was determined that the perception scores of the participants in terms of independent variables were statistically close to each other and they had knowledge about nutrition in general. It was determined that there was a statistically significant difference between the nutritional knowledge levels according to the age variable, and the effect level was close to the middle. It was determined that there was no significant difference between other variables and nutrition. Conclusions. In addition to a healthy life, healthy nutrition is important for coaches in the continuity of their professional life. It would be beneficial to have more information about nutrition in school curriculum. This will contribute to the fight against obesity, which is today's disease.

Association of Dental Caries, Periodontal, and Nutritional Status with Body Mass Index among Incarcerated Women in Central Jail, Karachi, Pakistan.

Objective: To determine the association body mass index and the status of dental decay and gum health in women serving prison sentences. Methods: A cross-sectional investigation took place at the Central Jail for Women, Pakistan, spanning from January 2021 to February 2022. The study included all incarcerated women and those awaiting trial aged between 18 and 65 years, while individuals who declined participation were excluded. Con- venience sampling was employed, and each participant underwent examinations for dental caries and periodontal status. Sample size was calculated by considering the total number of women in prison to be 205, keeping the margin of error as 5%, and a confidence level of 95%, a sample size of 134 was calculated. Oral health was measured through DMFT index. Body mass indexes were re- corded by measuring the height and weight of the participants. Furthermore, nutritional habits includ- ing height, weight, source of food and frequency of food were also documented. Oral health conditions were evaluated in 131 women currently serving prison sentences. Results: About 23.7 % (n=31) were overweight and 6.1% were obese. Total 71.7% (n=94) of women had at least one decayed tooth, 63 (48.1%) had at least one missing tooth, and 7 (5.3%) had at least one filled tooth. The logistic regression analysis indicated a significant association between being overweight and the DMFT score, with an Exponentiation of B of 1.19 and a 95% confidence interval ranging from 1.03 to 1.38. The associated p-value was 0.021. Conclusion: It was found that high BMI was significantly associated with higher DMFT score. The re- sults of this study drives the attention of clinicians and researchers towards the unidentified health needs of incarcerated women. Among other medical conditions, sensitization to oral hygiene and oral health must also be prioritized. Further efforts should be directed towards making oral health acces- sible to the incarcerated population.