Poor Dietary Choices Research Articles

The Relationship between Dietary Habits and Type 2 Diabetes for Contribution to Health Promotion: Literature Review

Introduction: Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic condition largely influenced by dietary habits and eating behaviors. Poor dietary choices, such as high consumption of refined sugars, unhealthy fats, and low intake of fiber, are well-established risk factors for the development of T2DM. The promotion of healthy eating behaviours and active lifestyles is essential to address the increasing prevalence of T2DM and improve public health. Objective: This study aimed to examine the impact of various dietary patterns and specific food intakes on the risk of T2DM, as well as the role of meal timing and dietary quality in influencing blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity. Method: This research employs a literature review method by analyzing several relevant studies. The articles were sourced from Scopus and Google Scholar, using keywords such as "feeding behavior," "eating behavior," "feeding patterns," "food habits," "dietary habits," and "type 2 Diabetes," "diabetes Type 2," "type 2 diabetes mellitus," "diabetes mellitus type 2," and "T2DM." Result: The results of the article search revealed 13 articles from 2019-2024 that matched the criteria set. The results showed that Eating habits have a significant effect on the risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus (T2DM). Poor food choices and irregular eating patterns increase the risk. Conclusion: The paper highlights the significant impact of dietary habits and eating behaviors on the development and progression of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. It emphasises the importance of healthy food choices and regular eating patterns in managing blood glucose levels and insulin sensitivity. These insights could contribute to designing an effective health promotion program.

Quercetin: A Promising Candidate for the Management of Metabolic Dysfunction-Associated Steatotic Liver Disease (MASLD)

Metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) represents a chronic liver disease. The development of MASLD is influenced by a multitude of diseases associated with modern lifestyles, including but not limited to diabetes mellitus, hypertension, hyperlipidaemia and obesity. These conditions are often consequences of the adoption of unhealthy habits, namely a sedentary lifestyle, a lack of physical activity, poor dietary choices and excessive alcohol consumption. The treatment of MASLD is primarily based on modifying the patient’s lifestyle and pharmacological intervention. Despite the absence of FDA-approved pharmacological agents for the treatment of MASLD, several potential therapeutic modalities have demonstrated efficacy in reversing the histopathological features of the disease. Among the botanical ingredients belonging to the flavonoid group is quercetin (QE). QE has been demonstrated to possess a number of beneficial physiological effects, including anti-inflammatory, anticancer and antifungal properties. Additionally, it functions as a natural antioxidant. Preclinical evidence indicates that QE may play a beneficial role in reducing liver damage and improving metabolic health. Early human studies also suggest that QE may be an effective treatment for MASLD due to its antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and lipid-regulating properties. This review aims to summarize the available information on the therapeutic effects of QE in MASLD.

Oat polar lipids and sunflower lecithin similarly improve cardiometabolic risk markers and appetite controlling hormone responses after breakfast and a subsequent lunch. A randomized crossover study in healthy adults

IntroductionThe alarming global increase in lifestyle-related disorders such as obesity and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) has increased during the last several decades. Poor dietary choices significantly contribute to this increase and prevention measures are urgently needed. Dietary intake of bioactive compounds found in foods are linked to a decrease likelihood of these disorders. For this purpose, a randomized crossover meal study was performed to compare the postprandial metabolic effects of lecithin and oat polar lipids in healthy subjects.Materials and methodsEighteen young healthy subjects ingested test meals enriched with lecithin, oat polar lipids (PLs) or rapeseed oil. There were four test meals (i) 15 g oat polar lipids: OPL, (ii) 18 g sunflower lecithin (of which 15 g were polar lipids): LPL, (iii) 18 g rapeseed oil: RSO, and (iv) reference white wheat bread: WWB. Lipid-enriched test meals contained equivalent amounts of total fat (18 g), and all breakfast meals contained 50 g available carbohydrates. The meals were served as breakfast followed by a standardised lunch (white wheat bread and meat balls) after 3.5 h. Test variables were measured at fasting and repeatedly during 5.5 h after ingestion of the breakfast.ResultsOur study demonstrated that both LPL and OPL had beneficial effects on postprandial glucose and insulin responses, and appetite regulating gut hormones, as compared to RSO and WWB. Significant increase in GLP-1, GIP, and PYY concentrations were seen after consuming breakfast meals with LPL and OPL, and ghrelin concentration was reduced compared to meals with RSO and WWB (p < 0.05). Furthermore, triglycerides (TG) concentration was significantly reduced after OPL compared to RSO (p < 0.05). Our data show that there were no significant variations in glycaemic and insulin responses, TG, and gut hormone concentrations between LPL and OPL during breakfast (0–210 min) or over the whole study period (0–330 min).ConclusionOur study revealed that the consumption of both lecithin and oat PLs included in breakfast meal may similarly enhance postprandial glucose tolerance, reduce TG, and enhance the secretion of incretins and appetite regulating hormones in healthy young adults.Clinical trial registrationClinicalTrials.gov, identifier NCT05139355.

Teachers' perception of their students' dietary habits in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a qualitative study.

Poor dietary choices and consumption of unhealthy foods are major determinants of malnutrition among adolescents in Ethiopia. The school food environment is a valuable setting for exploring adolescents' eating habits. Teachers have an important role in understanding factors that impact students' dietary choices. The aim of this study is to explore secondary school teachers' perceptions towards adolescents' dietary habits in Ethiopia. The study employed a qualitative research design. Four focus group discussions, involving a total of 13 teachers, were conducted at governmental and private schools in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Additionally, observations of the food environment in these four schools. The transcripts from the focus group discussions and photographs from observations were analyzed using thematic analysis. Triangulation of data sources and persistent observation of the data were employed to enhance the study's trustworthiness. The study was approved by the Norwegian Center for Research Data and the Addis Ababa Health Bureau, and all participants provided informed consent. Teachers perceived adolescents' dietary habits as unhealthy, characterized by the consumption of unsafe foods, limited variety, and reliance on processed foods. Factors negatively influencing adolescents' dietary habits include a lack of awareness about a healthy diet among both students and parents. Low familial income levels were also identified as a barrier to eating a healthy diet. The unavailability of healthy foods and the advertising of unhealthy and processed foods as well as peer influence were hindrances to a healthy diet both at school and home. This study provides additional evidence of the nutrition transition which is linked to the double burden of malnutrition among adolescents in low-income countries. Factors affecting adolescent diets at school are multileveled. Incorporating nutrition education into the school curriculum will likely improve dietary awareness mitigating peer influence. Regulating the school food environment and enforcing advertisement laws targeting adolescents can promote healthier school food environments. Providing short term nutrition trainings for biology or science teachers and strengthen their role in delivering nutrition education to children and their families, along with implementing measures to address food insecurity and restricting availability of unhealthy food at school need to be regarded as priorities.

Associations of Microbiota and Nutrition with Cognitive Impairment in Diseases

Background/Objectives: Recent research highlights the growing interest in the impact of nutrition on cognitive health and function in disease, as dietary habits are increasingly recognized as crucial factors in relation to brain function. This focus is especially important given the rising prevalence of neurodegenerative diseases and the cognitive decline associated with poor dietary choices. Links are now being sought between brain function and the microbiota and gut–brain axis. Mechanisms are proposed that include low-grade chronic neuroinflammation, the influence of short-chain fatty acids, or the disruption of glial cells and transmitters in the brain. Methods: We reviewed the articles on pubmed. This is not a systematic review, but of the narrative type. We wanted to outline the issue and summarise the latest information. Results: The axis in question has its foundation in nutrition. It has been reported that diet, particularly the components and the timing of food intake, has an impact on cognitive processes. The Mediterranean diet is most often cited in the literature as being beneficial to health. In order to obtain a more complete view, it is worth considering other dietary patterns, even those that impair our health. Conclusions: Determining what is beneficial and what is not will allow us to develop a speronized strategy for the prevention of, and fight against, cognitive impairment. Appropriately selected supplements, the functions of which we have also discussed, may prove supportive.

Perceptions Experiences and Challenges of Physical Activity among Firefighters with Coronary Heart Disease Risk Factors in the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services

Background The development of atherosclerosis in firefighters is affected by various cardiovascular risk factors, such as smoking, poor dietary choices, and lack of physical activity. Together, these elements lead to obesity, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol, and increased blood sugar levels. Continuous exposure to these risks raises the chances of worsening atherosclerosis, which can impede blood circulation to essential organs like the heart and brain. As a result, sudden cardiac death is the leading cause of fatalities while on duty in the fire service. Aim This study aimed to explore and describe the perceptions, experiences, and challenges associated with physical activity among firefighters with risk factors for coronary heart disease in the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services. Methods A purposive sample of nine full-time active career firefighters from the City of Cape Town Fire and Rescue Services, representing three different ranks, was employed, using a descriptive qualitative study design. The semi-structured interview responses were recorded and transcribed verbatim. The participants were free to leave the study at any time and without penalty, and their rights to confidentiality were protected. The thematic analysis was then used to examine the transcripts. Results The results revealed that firefighters were not physically active enough to meet the suggested minimum levels of physical activity and were physically inactive. Sedentary lifestyles have numerous detrimental effects on the human body, such as elevated rates of dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular disease mortality, and all-cause death. Therefore, it is essential to reduce sedentary behavior and increase physical exercise to improve the health and well-being of firefighters. Conclusion Policy strategies should be designed to introduce physical activities at low-moderate intensity levels and accommodate firefighters with coronary heart disease risk factors. Implementing team-based physical activity interventions has demonstrated positive impacts on individual behavior changes within the fire service.

The Effects of Acute Beetroot Juice Intake on Glycemic and Blood Pressure Responses When Controlling for Medication in Individuals with Type 2 Diabetes: A Pilot Study.

Physical inactivity and poor dietary choices contribute to the rise in cardiometabolic diseases in the United States. It remains critical to identify strategies that may mitigate the negative impact of these behaviors. Several studies have shown that the consumption of dietary inorganic nitrate may improve vascular health and glucose regulation in animal models and some human studies. However, the improvements in glucose regulation have yet to be corroborated in humans with type 2 diabetes (T2D). Therefore, the purpose of this study was to assess the acute effects of beetroot juice (BRJ) on glycemic and hemodynamic responses in individuals with T2D while controlling for medication. Seven participants with a clinical diagnosis of T2D were recruited into this study and were temporarily removed from blood pressure- and glucose-lowering medications. Hemodynamic measurements (pulsewave velocity) and an oral glucose tolerance test (glycemic response) were measured following consumption of either BRJ or a denitrolized placebo. Saliva and blood samples were collected at baseline and two and four hours post supplementation to measure changes in nitrate and nitrite concentrations. We detected significant improvements in total plasma glucose exposure (p = 0.022) and the SVR change score (p = 0.009) in the BRJ condition. This study demonstrated that BRJ consumption can improve oral glucose tolerance in individuals with T2D while controlling for medication; however, future larger-cohort randomized controlled trials are needed to confirm if BRJ is a viable treatment for glucose control in individuals with T2D.

Combating obesity in Southeast Asia countries: current status and the way forward

Obesity is gaining prominence as a serious public health challenge in the Southeast Asia (SEA) region, with an alarming rate of increase in its prevalence. Countries in the region have shown commitment to curbing the rise of obesity by establishing policies, strategies, and action plans. This paper summarises the current situation and strategies undertaken to combat obesity and related chronic diseases. Although a range of policies and strategies have been developed, including national nutrition action plans, community intervention programmes, fiscal measures, nutrition labelling to promote healthier choices, countries in the region are struggling to make significant progress toward halting the scourge of obesity. It is imperative to strengthen existing health systems with a paradigm shift from a focus on “sick care” to and enhancing nutrition initiatives to support obesity prevention. A comprehensive and coordinated approach is essential, one that emphasises high-level coordination across all levels of government and multiple sectors, and a unified plan rather than fragmented initiatives. For strategies to be effective and sustainable, they must address the fundamental environmental determinants of poor dietary choices and nutritional inequalities. A more holistic approach is clearly needed to improve the entire food environment, which in SEA countries must include the multitude of eating places where large segments of the population “eat out” everyday to meet their energy and nutrient needs. There is a recognised need for more comprehensive measures to promote healthy eating among school children and ensure a supportive environment for lifelong healthy habits. This paper calls for a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach that combines changes to the fundamental food environment and accompanied by systematic monitoring and surveillance systems to achieve long-lasting health outcomes.

Shift Work, Shifted Diets: An Observational Follow-Up Study on Diet Quality and Sustainability among Healthcare Workers on Night Shifts.

This study aimed to investigate the change in diet quality in addition to dietary adherence to the planetary health diet during night shifts in healthcare workers. This observational follow-up study involved 450 healthcare workers working night shifts (327 females, 123 males). A survey form requesting sociodemographic information (gender, age, marital status), job title, sleeping duration during the night shift, 24 h dietary records for pre-night-shift, during night shift, and post-night-shift, and anthropometric measurements (body weight and height) was applied. The scores of the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI) and the Healthy Eating Index 2020 (HEI-2020) were calculated according to the dietary records. The total HEI-2020 and PHDI scores decreased significantly (p < 0.05) during the night shift (44.0 ± 8.8 and 48.3 ± 13.2, respectively) compared to pre-night-shift (46.1 ± 9.2 and 51.9 ± 13.4, respectively) and increased post-night-shift (44.7 ± 9.9 and 50.6 ± 14.9, respectively), with no statistically significant difference between pre- and post-night-shift. There was a significant main effect of night shift working on total PHDI (F(896, 2) = 8.208, p < 0.001, ηp2 = 0.018) and HEI-2020 scores (F(894, 2) = 6.277, p = 0.002, ηp2 = 0.014). Despite healthcare workers' knowledge of health factors, night shifts lead to poor dietary choices. To improve diet quality and sustainability, it is crucial to enhance access to healthy food options in their work environment.

The Planetary Health Diet and Its Association with Asthma and Airway Inflammation in School-Aged Children.

Poor dietary choices have been rising concurrently with an increase in asthma prevalence, especially in children. Dietary indexes that simultaneously measure the healthiness and sustainability of dietary patterns have emerged to address the dual concerns of human and planetary health. Accordingly, we aimed to evaluate adherence to a sustainable dietary pattern and its impact on airway inflammation and asthma. In this study, 660 school-aged children (49.1% females, 7-12 years) were considered. A cross-sectional analysis was performed to assess the association between diet and asthma and airway inflammation according to overweight/obesity. Diet was evaluated through the Planetary Health Diet Index (PHDI). Higher scores represent a healthier and more sustainable diet. Three definitions of asthma were considered based on a self-reported medical diagnosis, symptoms, asthma medication, measured lung function, and airway reversibility. Airway inflammation was assessed by exhaled fractional nitric oxide (eNO). We considered two categories of body mass index: non-overweight/non-obese and overweight/obese. The associations between diet with asthma and airway inflammation were estimated using adjusted binary logistic regressions. The odds of having airway inflammation decreased with the increase in PHDI score. Moreover, children in the non-overweight/non-obesity group in the fourth quartile of the PHDI had lower odds of having airway inflammation compared to children in the first quartile. Our study indicates that a healthier and sustainable diet is associated with lower levels of eNO, but only among children without overweight/obesity.

Investigation of the impact of copper nanoparticles coated with ocimum bassilicum at chemoradiotherapy of colon carcinoma

BackgroundColon carcinoma poses a significant health challenge globally, particularly in developed nations where sedentary lifestyles, poor dietary choices, and genetic factors play a crucial role in its prevalence. Chemotherapy, the primary treatment method, carries severe side effects that can jeopardize patients' lives. Herbal extracts such as Ocimum Basillicum extract have shown effectiveness against cancer cells. Additionally, nanoparticles can significantly enhance drug delivery efficacy in these scenarios. AimThis article aims to investigate the impact of copper nanoparticles coated with Ocimum Bassilicum at chemoradiotherapy of Colon Carcinoma to hopefully create new treatment options with fewer side effects for patients. MethodologyCuO bio-NPs were produced by the addition of 15 mL of extract dropwise to 80 mL of a 5 mM Cu (OAc)2 aqueous solution, which was then refluxed for 2 h at 100 °C. The mixture gradually became darker brown in color as a result of the heating procedure. The production of CuO NPs and the hydrogen-donating activity of antioxidant phenols within the plant are signaled by surface plasmon resonance excitation, which is the cause of this. In the cell culture, LS174t colon cancer cells were treated with OB extract, CuNPs, and OB-coated CuNPs with and without different radiation levels in order to assess cell viability, through the MTT assay, and the pro-apoptotic BAX and anti-apoptotic BCL2 expressions, through qPCR assay. ResultsThe results demonstrate a decrease in cell viability and the expression of BCL2 and an increase in the expression of BAX especially when treated with OB-coated CuNPs and even furthermore when paired with radiation therapy. ConclusionsAfter doing the clinical trial studies, the recent nanoparticles can be used for the treatment of Colorectal carcinoma.

Dietary Patterns among Smokers and Non-Smokers: Findings from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey (NHANES) 2017-2018.

Diet behavior and nutrition are critical for maintaining health and improving quality of life. Cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the United States. Poor dietary choices, such as excessively frequenting restaurants, consuming ready-to-eat foods from grocery stores, and ingesting ultra-processed foods (like frozen meals and pizzas), can adversely impact health. Despite this, research comparing dietary behaviors between smokers and non-smokers is limited. Using data from the National Health and Nutritional Examination Survey 2017-2018, we analyzed diet behavior based on smoking status. Our findings reveal that smokers had a significant increase (90%) in the frequency of consuming frozen meals/pizzas in the past 30 days compared to non-smokers (coefficient: 1.9; 95% CI: 1.4, 2.6; p-value < 0.001). Additionally, over 70% of participants, regardless of their smoking status, were unaware of MyPlate, a nutritional guide created by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) to encourage Americans to make healthier food choices. There is an urgent need to increase public awareness of MyPlate and promote a better understanding of healthy dietary behaviors.

Time perspective and eating behaviour of young adults: how important is a healthy future compared to the present?

PurposePromoting healthy dietary habits is a concern for public health due to the association between unhealthy diets and nutrient-related diseases. This paper aims to examine the relationship between individuals’ temporal dietary behaviour and perceptions of the effect of dietary habits on physical health and how these perceptions influence two important aspects of eating behaviour, i.e. daily consumption of healthy food and self-reported extra payment for healthy food options.Design/methodology/approachCross-sectional data on 457 young Chinese adults within the age category of 18–30 years were collected through a survey. Two subscales (immediate and future) were obtained from the consideration-of-future-consequences (CFC)-12 scale through a factor analysis. A seemingly unrelated regression was estimated to determine whether CFC impacts behaviour through an awareness of the consequences of one’s dietary habits.FindingsIndividuals who are more focused on immediate gratification were more likely to perceive their current dietary habit have a negative effect on their physical health (p < 0.001). In contrast, those who prioritise the future benefits were less likely to perceive negative health effects from their dietary habits (p < 0.001). However, the perception of negative consequences of dietary habit on physical health did not motivate healthier eating daily (p < 0.001) nor allocating more money towards eating healthy (p < 0.001).Practical implicationsUnderstanding the relationship between time perspective and dietary habits could help identify potential risk factors for poor dietary choices and promote healthier eating habits.Originality/valueThe paper uses insights from behavioural economics to identify the behavioural triggers that lead to a healthier dietary habit.

Association Between High Blood Pressure And Cardiovascular Disease In Iraq: A Review

One of the most common ailments is hypertension, or high blood pressure. Many say this disease concerns them because it causes heart attack and stroke, which kill millions around the world each year. In recent years, the number of hypertension patients has been growing at an alarming rate. Humans with Hypertinsure about 1 billion The developing countries are particularly hard-hit What is more worrying than increasing numbers that have already skyrocketed--it's LMICC soaring These countries have also been especially hard hit by the burden of hypertension due to various socioeconomic aspects including income, wealth, employment status and place of residence. [1] Hypertension with its 41.5 incidence rate for every 1000 people is a big concern in Iraq. It is no different for children, obesity, poor dietary choices and lack of physical activity are all also associated with increasing risk of hypertension. Their experience makes clear how important it is to get hypertension under control and take measures prematurely.

Patient-Driven Solutions: Integrating Vildagliptin and Dapagliflozin in Diabetes Management

Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), an ongoing, chronic and multifactorial condition frequently necessitates multiple anti-hyperglycemic medications for optimal glycemic control. Diabetes rarely occurs in isolation, commonly coexisting with obesity, cardiovascular disease (CVD), and kidney dysfunction. Shared risk factors, such as sedentary lifestyles and poor dietary choices, contribute to the convergence of these health conditions. The interplay between obesity and insulin resistance (IR), a precursor to diabetes, amplifies cardiovascular risks through shared pathological pathways. Addressing this complex interrelation necessitates a holistic approach involving early detection, lifestyle modifications, and comprehensive management to navigate the intricate web of interrelated ailments. Clinical guidelines advocate early adoption of combination therapy. Combining two different therapeutic classes is a promising theoretical strategy for achieving safe and optimum glycemic regulation. Recent research trials combining dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitor (DPP-4i) and sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor (SGLT2i) confirm their safety and clinical efficacy and consequently, this combination emerges as an appealing therapy for T2DM patients, offering a favorable safety profile and positive clinical effects in terms of weight management and cardiorenal protection. This review highlights the utilization of Vildagliptin and Dapagliflozin in diabetes management, underscoring their necessity, pleiotropic advantages, and the importance of an individualized, patient-centric approach for optimal outcomes.

In Search of Novel SGLT2 Inhibitors by High-throughput Virtual Screening.

Type 2 diabetes mellitus constitutes approximately 90% of all reported forms of diabetes mellitus. Insulin resistance characterizes this manifestation of diabetes. The prevalence of this condition is commonly observed in patients aged 45 and above; however, there is an emerging pattern of younger cohorts receiving diagnoses primarily attributed to lifestyle-related variables, including obesity, sedentary behavior, and poor dietary choices. The enzyme SGLT2 exerts a negative regulatory effect on insulin signaling pathways, resulting in the development of insulin resistance and subsequent elevation of blood glucose levels. The maintenance of glucose homeostasis relies on the proper functioning of insulin signaling pathways, while disruptions in insulin signaling can contribute to the development of type 2 diabetes. Our study aimed to identify novel SGLT2 inhibitors by high-throughput virtual Screening. We screened the May bridge Hit Discover database to identify potent hits followed by druglikeness, synthetic accessibility, PAINS alert, toxicity estimation, ADME assessment, and consensus molecular docking. The screening process led to the identification of three molecules that demonstrated significant binding affinity, favorable drug-like properties, effective ADME, and minimal toxicity. The identified molecules could manage T2DM effectively by inhibiting SGLT2, providing a promising avenue for future therapeutic strategies.

A Review and a Brief Explanation of the Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome

A complicated disorder known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is typified by high testosterone levels, irregular menstruation, and/or tiny cysts on one or both ovaries. According to a study, PCOS is the most common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age, affecting 5% to 10% of females between the ages of 18 and 44. Poor dietary choices, physical inactivity, and elevated environmental factors have been related to PCOS, including obesity; infectious agents and toxins may also play a role. Although there is currently no pharmaceutical treatment for the illness, several interventive drugs are utilized to alleviate PCOS's clinical symptoms. Early detection of long-term morbidities through appropriate screening and testing is an essential part of the treatment of this disorder. Key Words: PCOS, hormones, vitamins

A STUDY ON THE PREVALENCE OF OVERWEIGHT AND OBESITY AMONG WOMEN AGED 20 YEARS AND ABOVE IN RURAL FIELD PRACTICE AREA OF SIMS, HAPUR

Objectives: The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of overweight as well as obesity among women aged 20 years and above in a rural covered area of SIMS, Hapur, and to assess the risk factors for overweight and obesity in the above study population. Methods: This research was carried out in the rural field practice area of SIMS, Hapur, spanning from July 2022 to July 2023. The study focused on women aged 20 years and older who were residents of the SIMS field practice area. The following criteria were used to select the study participants: Women who were pregnant at the time of the study, those who could not be reached after two home visits, individuals taking chronic medications that might lead to weight gain, and those who were uncooperative were excluded from the study. Results: Out of the 500 participants in the study, 18.6% were categorized as underweight, 53.6% fell within the normal weight range, and 27.8% were considered overweight. Within the group of overweight individuals, a substantial 70.5% were classified as obese. The study revealed that the overall prevalence of overweight (defined as BMI&gt;23) was 27.7%, while the prevalence of obesity (defined as BMI&gt;25) stood at 19.8%. Furthermore, 29.9% of the women had a waist circumference exceeding 80 cm. Conclusion: Based on the findings from our current research, it can be deduced that women with higher levels of education and socioeconomic status, a family history of excess weight, a higher number of pregnancies, a lack of physical activity, insufficient sleep, and poor dietary choices are more likely to be at risk of becoming overweight or obese. To prevent the rising prevalence of excess fat and obesity, it is imperative to implement lifestyle and dietary modifications.

The Influence of Lifestyle on Academic Performance Among Health Profession Students at Umm Al-Qura University.

Background and aim A healthy lifestyle is defined as a way of living that reduces the likelihood of severe illness or early death. Factors required for a healthy lifestyle, such as regular physical activity, better sleep patterns, improved dietary habits, probable caffeine consumption, and decreased feelings of anxiety, are generally assumed to be important for high academic performance. This study aims to investigate the correlation between a healthy lifestyle and academic success among health profession students at Umm Al-Qura University, Saudi Arabia. By doing so, we could potentially lead to the implementation of targeted interventions to support students in achieving their best academic potential. Methods This is an observational cross-sectional study conducted among health profession students at Umm Al-Qura University. An online questionnaire was used to collect data on demographic information and the impact of lifestyle characteristics on academic performance from October to November 2023. Data were analyzed using RStudio (R version 4.3.1). Results A total of 652 students participated in the study. The majority were between the ages of 18 and 25 years (97.2%, n=634). Females constituted the majority of the participants (69.9%, n=456). Regarding the field of study, the College of Medicine had the highest representation (52.9%, n=345). Regarding body mass index, the normal weight category was the most prevalent, encompassing 59.8% (n=390) of the participants. The results show that the participants generally had a good grade point average (GPA) in the range of 3.50 to 4.00. Also, the time spent on social media applications was not correlated with academic performance (P=0.575). Importantly, the majority of participants perceived that lifestyle habits impacted their academic performance. Conclusion This study found that unhealthy lifestyle factors, such as lack of physical activity, inadequate sleep, poor dietary choices, smoking, and mental health issues such as anxiety, have a negative impact on academic performance. Therefore, the dissemination of relevant knowledge is needed to promote the importance of a healthy lifestyle and raise students' awareness.

AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SHWITRA (VITILIGO)- A CASE STUDY.

The Sanskrit term Shweta, which meaning "white patch," is the root of the name Shwitra. Shwitra (Vitiligo) is a condition that is referenced in the classic Kushta Roga Chikitsa and affects a significant section of the pediatric population as a result of poor dietary and lifestyle choices. Shwitra "Shweta Bhava Michanti Shwitram" is what the Kashyapa Samhita says. Kilasa, Daruna, Aruna, and Shweta Kushta are some more names for it. In contemporary medicine, vitiligo is referred to as an auto immune illness and manifests as a white patch on the skin. A widespread, progressive, chronic skin illness called vitiligo is characterized by patches of skin with sharp, frequently hyperpigmented edges caused by a lack of melanin pigments. Approximately 1% of people worldwide suffer from this illness. This condition is included under the general topic of Shwitra in Ayurveda. Every Acharya has the same opinion that the two primary therapeutic modalities mentioned in the classics—Samshodhan Karma and Samshaman Karma—should be used to treat Shwitra or Kushtha first. In their various Samhitas, Acharyas have specified a variety of internal and external uses, as well as sun exposure, for Shaman Chikitsa in the Shwitra Roga. Samhitas discuss a wide range of single and combination medications; among them, Shwitrahar Kashaya and lepa are mentioned in detail. One of them is chosen and shown to be useful for the investigation.