Protein Intake Research Articles

Protein Consumption and Risk of CVD Among U.S. Adults: The Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA).

Although some randomized trials have reported beneficial effects of protein intake on cardiometabolic risk factors, evidence from prospective studies have not supported a strong link between protein intake and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk. It is also unclear whether diversity in protein intake plays a role in CVD risk. We investigated prospective associations of (1) protein intake, overall and by food source and (2) diversity of protein sources with risk of CVD, coronary heart disease (CHD), and stroke. In a multi-ethnic cohort of 5879 U.S. adults (45-84 years), who were free of CVD at baseline, protein intake was assessed at baseline (2000-2002) using a validated 120-item food frequency questionnaire. Two different aspects of protein diversity were assessed including count (number of protein food consumed at least once/week) and dissimilarity (diversity of the attributes of the protein sources consumed). Relationships with incident CVD outcomes through 2019 were assessed using Cox proportional hazards models adjusting for sociodemographic, lifestyle, and comorbidity factors. During 83,430 person-years, 1045 CVD cases were identified, including 668 CHD and 332 stroke cases. In multivariable models, we found no significant associations between protein intake, overall and by food source, with incident CVD, CHD, or stroke. Protein count, but not protein dissimilarity, was weakly associated with CVD risk. We found no significant associations between diversity of consumption of animal or plant food source and CVD outcomes. Our findings suggest protein consumption may not significantly impact CVD risk in middle-aged adults.

Anthropometric profile and dietary intake of amateurs and professional mixed martial arts athletes

Nutritional habits and anthropometric profiles are directly linked to competitive performance; however, there is a great lack of information on amateur or professional mixed martial arts (MMA) athletes outside the competitive period. The aim of this study was to compare food consumption and anthropometric profile of amateur and professional MMA fighters. The sample was composed of 24 male MMA athletes, middleweight category (age: 27.5 ± 5.0 years; body mass: 79.0 ± 12.1 kg; height: 173.5 ± 0.1 cm; %BF: 19.5 ± 4.0 %, BMI: 26.0 ± 2.8 kg/m2). Food consumption was evaluated based on three 24-hour food diaries using the Multi-Step method in a non-competitive period and analyzed using the Dietbox v2.92 software. The professional group was younger (p = 0.001) than the amateur group. Total energy expenditure was similar between amateur (4364 ± 469 kcal) and professional (4312 ± 381 kcal). Amateur and professional reported an energy deficit between the estimated energy requirement and energy intake. Carbohydrate consumption was below the suggested minimum limits (amateur: 3.3 ± 1.6g/kg/day and professional: 3.3 ± 1.4g/kg/day). Protein intake was within the suggested limits (amateur: 1.4 ± 0.9g/kg/day and professional: 1.8 ± 0.8g/kg/day) and lipids presented borderline values about to with concerning the recommendations in the literature (amateur: 0.9 ± 0.6 / g/kg/day and professional: 1.8 ± 0.9 g/kg/day). Amateur and professional athletes did not differ in terms of food consumption and anthropometric profile. Both groups, amateur and professional, demonstrated negative energy balance and inability to reach the suggested levels of macronutrient intake according to the classification. Thus, it is recommended that both MMA groups receive attention regarding nutritional strategies.

Pregnancy affects maternal performance, feed intake, and digestion kinetics parameters in beef heifers.

This study aimed to quantify the effects of physiological status (PS) and potential interaction of this factor with days of pregnancy (DOP) on beef heifers' weight variation, intake, and digestion kinetics. Twelve rumen-cannulated zebu beef heifers (n = 7 pregnant; n = 5 non-pregnant) were used. Heifers were placed in individual pens and fed medium-quality corn silage plus a protein-based supplement. Heifers' body weight was assessed at the beginning and end of each collection period. The feed intake was measured daily. Target outcomes were evaluated at 107, 170, 208, 240, 267, and 286 days of pregnancy. The apparent total-tract digestibility was determined considering the fecal spot collection, during five days within each collection period. Omasal and ruminal digesta samples were collected at 107, 208, and 267 days of pregnancy for determination of partial digestibilities and diet component outflow. For these purposes, Co-EDTA and indigestible neutral detergent fiber (iNDF) were used as indicators. All data were analyzed using a mixed model framework, considering the PS and DOP as fixed effects and the animal as a random effect. Significant differences were declared when P ≤ 0.05. Pregnant heifers showed an increase in body reserves (+35kg) from 107 to 240 days of pregnancy, but experienced a decrease in shrunk body weight (-36kg) from 240 to 286 days of pregnancy. The intake of dry matter (DM), organic matter (OM), crude protein (CP), and ash- and protein-free neutral detergent fiber (apNDF) increased as pregnancy progressed (P < 0.04). The apparent total-tract digestibility of DM tended to be lower (P = 0.09), and the apparent total-tract digestibility of apNDF was reduced (P < 0.01) in pregnant heifers. The digestibility of CP was higher (P < 0.01) on days 267 and 286 in pregnant cows compared to non-pregnant heifers. The ruminal digestibility of OM tended to be lower (P = 0.09) in pregnant beef heifers, while the ruminal digestibility of apNDF was lower (P = 0.02) in pregnant heifers compared to non-pregnant ones. The ruminal pool of wet matter and DM was lower (P ≤ 0.01) in pregnant heifers at 267 days of pregnancy. In all periods, the outflow tended to be greater (P = 0.06) in pregnant heifers compared to non-pregnant heifers. Pregnant beef heifers exhibited a faster (P = 0.01) digesta passage rate during late gestation. In conclusion, late-gestating beef heifers are less efficient in extracting energy from feed compared to non-pregnant animals.

The Effect of Fermented Food Containing Aspergillus Oryzae (Amazake or Raw-SHIOKOJI) Consumption on Abdominal Symptoms Associated with Premenstrual Syndrome in Japanese Women

Background: Psychological and physical symptoms such as irritability, headache, abdominal pain, difficulty with bowel movements, and drowsiness that occur because of hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle refer to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). The study examined whether the intake of fermented food containing Aspergillus oryza (Amazake and Raw-SHIOKOJI), a traditional Japanese food, improved the abdominal symptoms associated with PMS. Method: Eleven healthy Japanese collegiate women in their 20s participated in this interventional study. The study period was set to 28 days per phase, and the participants were examined over three separate phases: before, during, and after the intake of Amazake or Raw-SHIOKOJI. The participants were instructed to maintain a daily record of their food intake, bowel movements and menstruation throughout the study period. Results: The intake of fiber, fat, protein, and carbohydrate among 11 participants were similar, with no significant difference between the two groups. Menstrual abdominal discomfort in women in their 20s was noted during the luteal and menstrual phases. Eight participants (72.7%) experienced abdominal discomfort during the luteal phase and all participants experienced abdominal discomfort during the menstrual phase. Consuming fermented food containing Aspergillus oryzae may reduce PMS abdominal symptoms by 72.7%. Conclusion: This study showed that consumption of food containing Aspergillus oryzae reduced abdominal discomfort associated with the luteal phase and may improve menstruating women's health and quality of life.

Metabolic biomarkers of appetite control in Parkinson's disease patients with and without cognitive impairment

BackgroundAppetite dysregulation in Parkinson’s Disease (PD) appears to be linked to physical and cognitive deterioration. PD patients with and without cognitive impairment (CI) were compared to an age-matched control group to explore predictors of appetite control in fasting and post-prandial conditions. MethodsFifty-five patients were recruited and divided into three groups: twenty controls (age: 74y, BMI: 25.8kg/m2), nineteen PD patients without CI (72.5y, 25.1kg/m2) and sixteen PD patients with CI (74.3y, 24.0kg/m2). Self-reported appetite perception and circulating blood metabolic biomarkers were measured in fasting and over a three-hour post-prandial period. Biomarkers included glucose, insulin, tumour necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), leptin, acyl-ghrelin, total ghrelin, peptide YY (PYY), glucagon like peptide 1 (GLP-1), insulin growth factor 1 (IGF-1), growth factor (GF) and triglycerides. Patients were then provided with a mixed meal to eat ad libitum with the aim to evaluate links between metabolic biomarkers and control of energy intake. ResultsPD patients with CI had a significant lower protein intake (7.4±2.5g, p=0.01) compared to controls (21.9±3.1g) and PD patients without CI (14.3±3.0g). Post-prandial plasma GLP-1 concentrations were associated with decreased hunger perception (B±SE, -5.3±2.4mm·hour-1, p=0.04). PYY concentrations were significantly associated with GLP-1 in fasting (r=0.40, p=0.005) and post-prandial (r=0.46, p<0.001) conditions. In a multivariate model, post-prandial PYY concentrations were a significant predictor of ad libitum energy intake in all subjects (B±SE, -87.5±34.9kcal, p=0.01) and in patients with PD (B±SE, -106.8±44.9kcal, p=0.04). ConclusionsPYY and GLP-1 appeared to influence appetite control in PD patients and their roles merit further investigation.

Using interpretable machine learning methods to identify the relative importance of lifestyle factors for overweight and obesity in adults: pooled evidence from CHNS and NHANES

BackgroundOverweight and obesity pose a huge burden on individuals and society. While the relationship between lifestyle factors and overweight and obesity is well-established, the relative contribution of specific lifestyle factors remains unclear. To address this gap in the literature, this study utilizes interpretable machine learning methods to identify the relative importance of specific lifestyle factors as predictors of overweight and obesity in adults.MethodsData were obtained from 46,057 adults in the China Health and Nutrition Survey (2004–2011) and the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2007–2014). Basic demographic information, self-reported lifestyle factors, including physical activity, macronutrient intake, tobacco and alcohol consumption, and body weight status were collected. Three machine learning models, namely decision tree, random forest, and gradient-boosting decision tree, were employed to predict body weight status from lifestyle factors. The SHapley Additive exPlanation (SHAP) method was used to interpret the prediction results of the best-performing model by determining the contributions of specific lifestyle factors to the development of overweight and obesity in adults.ResultsThe performance of the gradient-boosting decision tree model outperformed the decision tree and random forest models. Analysis based on the SHAP method indicates that sedentary behavior, alcohol consumption, and protein intake were important lifestyle factors predicting the development of overweight and obesity in adults. The amount of alcohol consumption and time spent sedentary were the strongest predictors of overweight and obesity, respectively. Specifically, sedentary behavior exceeding 28–35 h/week, alcohol consumption of more than 7 cups/week, and protein intake exceeding 80 g/day increased the risk of being predicted as overweight and obese.ConclusionPooled evidence from two nationally representative studies suggests that recognizing demographic differences and emphasizing the relative importance of sedentary behavior, alcohol consumption, and protein intake are beneficial for managing body weight status in adults. The specific risk thresholds for lifestyle factors observed in this study can help inform and guide future research and public health actions.

Short-term intermittent fasting and energy restriction do not impair rates of muscle protein synthesis: A randomised, controlled dietary intervention

BackgroundIntermittent fasting (IF) is an effective energy restricted dietary strategy to reduce body and fat mass and improve metabolic health in individuals with either an overweight or obese status. However, dietary energy restriction may impair muscle protein synthesis (MPS) resulting in a concomitant decline in lean body mass. Due to periods of prolonged fasting combined with irregular meal intake, we hypothesised that IF would reduce rates of MPS compared to an energy balanced diet with regular meal patterns. AimsWe assessed the impact of a short-term (ten days) alternate day fasting or a continuous energy restricted diet to a control diet on integrated rates of skeletal MPS in middle-aged males with overweight or obesity. MethodsTwenty-seven middle-aged males with overweight or obesity (age: 44.6±5.4 y; BMI: 30.3±2.6 kg/m2) consumed a three-day lead-in diet, followed by a ten-day controlled dietary intervention matched for protein intake, as alternate day fasting (ADF: 62.5 energy (En)%, days of 25 En% alternated with days of 100 En% food ingestion), continuous energy restriction (CER: 62.5 En%), or an energy balanced, control diet (CON: 100 En%). Deuterated water (D2O) methodology with saliva, blood, and skeletal muscle sampling were used to assess integrated rates of MPS over the ten-day intervention period. Secondary measures included fasting plasma glucose, insulin, and gastrointestinal hormone concentrations, continuous glucose monitoring, and assessment of body composition. ResultsThere were no differences in daily rates of MPS between groups (ADF: 1.18±0.13, CER: 1.13±0.16, and CON: 1.18±0.18%/day, P>0.05). The reductions in body mass were greater in ADF and CER compared to CON (P<0.001). Lean and fat mass were decreased by a similar magnitude across groups (main time effect, P<0.001; main group effect, P>0.05). Fasting plasma leptin concentrations decreased in ADF and CER (P<0.001), with no differences in fasting plasma glucose or insulin concentrations between groups. ConclusionShort-term alternate day fasting does not lower rates of MPS compared to continuous energy restriction or an energy balanced, control diet with matched protein intake. The prolonged effects of IF and periods of irregular energy and protein intake patterns on muscle mass maintenance remain to be investigated. This trial was registered under Australian New Zealand Clinical Trial Registry (https://www.anzctr.org.au), identifier no. ACTRN12619000757112.

Contribution of ultra-processed food and animal-plant protein intake ratio to the environmental impact of Belgian diets

There is growing concern about the various impacts of food consumption, both on human and planetary health. Given the context-specific nature of consumption patterns, evaluating their national-level impacts is crucial for proactive policy development. This research aims to evaluate the environmental impact of current Belgian diets, with particular attention to the contribution of food groups, ultra-processed foods (UPF), and the animal-to-plant protein ratio. The methodology consists of three key stages. Firstly, the Belgian diet was summarised, based on data from the Belgian National Food Consumption Survey 2014/2015. Secondly, the origin of the most frequently consumed foods was traced using trade databases. Finally, a cradle-to-grave life cycle assessment was conducted to determine the impact of Belgian diets on climate change, water use, land use, and fossil resource scarcity. In this third step, an iterative procedure for selecting the food items to be included in the study was performed. The iterative approach resulted in the inclusion of 227 food items in the analysis. The results indicate greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of 4.4 [4.27–4.54] kg CO2-equivalent per person per day. Red meat (35 %), beverages (16 %), dairy products (16 %) and snacks (10 %) are identified as primary contributors to climate change. Similar results were observed for land use impacts. Water use and fossil resource scarcity exhibited different trends, with beverages being the most impactful food group. Moreover, UPF account for 50 % of the total climate change and land use impacts, with a linear relationship observed between increased UPF consumption and GHG emissions and land use. A similar linear trend is observed between the ratio of animal-to-plant protein intake and both climate change and land use impact categories. A shift from the current protein ratio to a ratio of 40/60, as suggested in the Flemish Green Deal Protein Shift has been shown to result in a reduction in GHG emissions of the diet by 31 %. This study emphasises the need to target the consumption of high-impact foods such as UPF and animal-based products. Future research will investigate the relationship between environmental and health impacts.

A Comparison between Severity-dependent Protocol and Fixed Dose Regimen of Oral Vitamin D Supplementation on Correction of Hypovitaminosis D among Dialysis Patients.

Low vitamin D status is associated with either low muscle mass or impaired muscle function in dialysis patients. However, there is no consensus on how best to correct hypovitaminosis D, defined as serum 25-hydroxyvitamin D [25(OH)D] level <30 ng/mL, in patients with end-stage kidney disease (ESKD). This study investigated the effect of different vitamin D supplementation regimens on sarcopenia outcomes in dialysis patients. This was a prospective randomized controlled trial. ESKD patients treated with maintenance hemodialysis (HD) or peritoneal dialysis (PD) with low vitamin D status on a ratio of 1:1, randomized to either receive oral ergocalciferol utilizing a severity-dependent treatment protocol for low vitamin D status suggested by the K/DOQI as a control group, or a fixed-dose regimen of 20,000 international units (IU)/week. The changes in muscle mass were measured by bioimpedance spectroscopy (BIS), muscle strength was assessed by a hand grip dynamometer, physical performance was determined by gait speed, and muscle-related biomarkers were examined. A total of 76 dialysis patients were randomized (HD=43.4%). Baseline characteristics, including age, dialysis vintage, and muscle parameters were similar. After supplementation, the average serum 25(OH)D levels in the severity-dependent and fixed-dose groups were significantly elevated from 14.5±7.3 to 27.2±13.2 ng/mL, p<0.001 and from 15.1±6.4 to 28.8±11.5 ng/mL, p<0.001, respectively, and did not differ between groups at six months (p=0.60). Despite comparable energy and protein intake, the mean BIS-derived total-body muscle mass normalized to height squared was significantly increased at six months in the fixed-dose group (14.5±3.3 to 15.3±3.0 kg/m2, p=0.03) compared with the severity-dependent protocol (13.5±2.7 to 13.7±2.9 kg/m2, p=0.58). In the subgroup analysis, muscle mass improvement was statistically elevated in PD patients (p=0.01) while unaltered among HD patients (p=0.88) in the fixed-dose group. Muscle strength, gait speed, and serum insulin-like growth factor-1 level, as the mediators of muscle cell growth, were not different between the two groups at six months (p>0.05). Neither hypercalcemia nor hyperphosphatemia was found throughout the study. A fixed-dose ergocalciferol supplementation demonstrates similar performance in the correction of low vitamin D status but better muscle mass improvement than a severity-dependent protocol among ESKD patients. Regular dosing intervals of weekly vitamin D supplementation appear to be a promising treatment for sarcopenia among patients undergoing dialysis.

Associations of food group intakes with serum carbon isotope ratio values in youth: results from two prospective pediatric cohort studies

BackgroundThe carbon isotope ratio (CIR) is a candidate biomarker for sugar sweetened beverage (SSB) intake in the U.S. However, research specific to youth, who differ in their physiology and dietary patterns compared to adults, is lacking. ObjectivesWe evaluated longitudinal associations of SSB intakes across childhood/adolescence with serum CIR. We also explored the relationship between other dietary intakes and serum CIR. MethodsData were from participants in two longitudinal, pediatric cohorts in Colorado: Exploring Perinatal Outcomes among CHildren Study (EPOCH) (visits at median 10 and 16 y, n=150) and Healthy Start Study (visits at median 5 and 9 y, n=166). Serum CIR was measured using isotope ratio mass spectrometry. Diet was assessed by food frequency questionnaires (EPOCH) or 24-hour diet recalls (Healthy Start). We assessed associations of longitudinal dietary intakes (log2-transformed, standardized) with serum CIR using linear mixed models adjusted for age, sex, and energy intake, and associations of change values between visits using linear regression models. ResultsIn linear mixed models, higher SSB intake across visits was associated with higher serum CIR in both cohorts (β [95% CI]: 0.11[0.06,0.15] in EPOCH and 0.14[0.07,0.21] in Healthy Start). Higher meat intake and a higher dietary animal protein ratio were also positively associated with serum CIR in both cohorts (β [95% CI]: 0.08[0.05,0.12] and 0.18[0.13,0.23] in EPOCH; 0.08[0.01,0.16] and 0.28[0.21,0.35] in Healthy Start). In change analyses, there were positive associations for changes in the dietary animal protein ratio between visits with changes in serum CIR in both cohorts, but not for changes in SSB intake. ConclusionsOur findings support serum CIR as a potential biomarker of SSB intake in youth cross-sectionally; however, there was not a strong link between change values over longer-term follow-up. Meat/animal protein intake was also consistently and, at times, more strongly associated with serum CIR.

Towards a dynamic model of indispensable amino acid requirements of the adult human: A factorial estimate of oxidative amino acid losses

BackgroundConsensus regarding the required intake of indispensable amino acids (IDAAs) and protein (representing total AAs) in the adult is lacking. Oxidation is a major, though not exclusive, source of IDAA loss in the human body and a primary factor determining requirements; a quantitative understanding of oxidative IDAA losses is required. ObjectiveTo develop a factorial diurnal model of total oxidative IDAA and protein losses in the adult human. MethodsA factorial diurnal model of oxidative losses of protein and each IDAA at maintenance was developed by estimating the magnitude and variability of sources of oxidative loss from existing literature: inevitable catabolism (constitutive oxidation of each absorbed dietary AA), and protein turnover in the postprandial and postabsorptive states. Total oxidative losses were calculated by summing individual losses, validated against published independent nitrogen balance data and compared to current IDAA requirements. ResultsThe factorial model predicted minimum oxidative total AA losses of 390±60 mg.kgBW-1.day-1, 59% of the EAR for protein. Inevitable AA oxidation and oxidation associated with postabsorptive protein turnover were the major sources of the oxidative loss for protein, at 40% and 44%, respectively. Summed oxidative IDAA losses ranged from 64% (isoleucine) to 91% (tryptophan) of current requirements. Total oxidative losses predicted by the model were significant predictors of actual experimental oxidative losses obtained by nitrogen balance (R2=0.66; p=0.049). ConclusionsThe use of a factorial model for estimation of minimum IDAA and protein oxidative losses in the adult human provides an essential starting point for an updated understanding of protein and IDAA requirements. Further iterations of the model will estimate total protein and IDAA requirements, and account for variations in dietary protein quantity and quality, as well as different populations and physiological states. Additional data, especially for inevitable oxidation in humans, and particularly with respect to individual IDAAs, are needed.

The relationship between perceived discrimination and reported nutrient intake among pregnant individuals of minoritized racial and ethnic groups

BackgroundImplications of life-long, perceived discrimination on nutrient intake during the preconception period are unclear. ObjectiveThe objective is to identify associations between perceived discrimination and consumption of specific nutrients associated with risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. DesignThis is a secondary data analysis of the prospective Nulliparous Pregnancy Outcomes Study: Monitoring Mothers-to-be (NuMom2b) cohort. Participants completed a Block Food Frequency Questionnaire assessing diet in the three months prior to pregnancy and a Krieger Experiences of Discrimination Scale assessing personal encounters of discrimination. Participants/SettingParticipants were recruited from eight clinical centers across the US between 2010-2013. Each participant completed the Food Frequency and Krieger questionnaires and self-identified as belonging to a minoritized racial or ethnic group for this analysis (n=2457). Main outcome measuresMain outcomes include reported total energy and macronutrient intake, percent of energy from macronutrients, saturated and unsaturated fatty acids (FA), added sugar, sodium, dietary fiber, and Healthy Eating Index-2010 Seafood and Plant Proteins component score. Statistical analyses performedParticipants were grouped as reporting fewer (<3) or more (≥3) circumstances of discrimination on the Krieger Scale. Multivariable regression models examined associations between discrimination group and nutrient intake. Variables with non-normal distributions were log transformed. Associations were adjusted for total energy intake. Primary outcomes underwent false discovery rate correction (FDR). ResultsThose reporting three or more circumstances of discrimination had higher reported energy intake (p=0.002) and higher reported intake of total fat, saturated fat, unsaturated fats, protein, added sugar and sodium after FDR (all p<0.05) as compared to those reporting fewer circumstances. After adjustment for total energy intake, reporting three or more circumstances was associated with greater reported intake of saturated fat and n-3 polyunsaturated FA, and lower reported intake of dietary fiber (all p<0.05). ConclusionReporting three or more circumstances of discrimination was associated with higher reported total energy intake. After adjustment for total energy, reporting three or more circumstances of perceived discrimination was associated with less nutritious intake for some (higher saturated fat and lower dietary fiber) but not all (higher eicosapentaenoic and docosahexaenoic acids) nutrients.

Impact of diet on renal stone formation

ABSTRACT Background and Objectives: The incidence of kidney stones is increasing globally, with a preponderance in adults compared with that in adolescents and children. Dietary habits have been identified as significant contributing factors to kidney stone formation. This literature review aimed to explore the existing evidence on the impact of diet on renal stone formation. Methods and Study Design: We conducted a comprehensive literature review and included 81 studies published between 1999 and 2023, limiting the search to articles published in English. The extracted data were analyzed to identify common themes, trends, and patterns related to the impact of diet on renal stone formation. We investigated the influence of dietary habits on the risk of nephrolithiasis. Results: Although the role of fluid intake in relation to stone formation is clear, existing evidence on how different types of beverages (coffee, tea, fruit juices, and soft drinks) affect kidney stone formation is conflicting. Other factors such as protein, sodium chloride, calcium, oxalate, fat, and carbohydrate intake have also been discussed as contributors to nephrolithiasis. Thus, diet should be appropriately modified to reduce the risk of stone formation in susceptible individuals. A history of nephrolithiasis has been found to increase the risk of both chronic kidney disease and end-stage renal disease. The review acknowledges the limitations inherent in conducting a literature review, including the potential for publication bias and the reliance on available published studies. Conclusions: These findings highlight the importance of understanding and preventing nephrolithiasis.

Characterization and mitigation measures for carbon dioxide, methane, and ammonia emissions in dairy barns

The agricultural sector is a major contributor to global greenhouse gas emissions, with dairy production being a significant source. In this context, the study aims to characterize CO₂, CH₄, and NH₃ emissions—key greenhouse gases in dairy barns—and to evaluate strategies for mitigating these emissions. Inside dairy barns, the primary sources of CO₂, CH₄, and NH₃ emissions are linked to the enteric processes of the animals and the waste deposited within the dairy barns. CO₂ mainly originates from animal respiration and the decomposition of organic matter. CH₄ is generated through enteric fermentation in the rumen and the anaerobic decomposition of manure. Additionally, NH₃ is released from the enzymatic breakdown of urea in urine. Mitigation efforts have shown promise within dairy barns through various approaches. Optimizing animal diets by incorporating supplements and controlling protein intake helps reduce methane production from enteric fermentation. Enhanced manure management practices, including separating feces and urine, adjusting manure pH, and increasing cleaning frequency, are effective in minimizing ammonia and methane emissions within dairy barns. Nevertheless, achieving significant emission reductions also requires effective waste management beyond the facilities. This study contributes to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable livestock production by addressing both emission sources and potential solutions in dairy farming.

Estimated protein intake and prognosis in hospitalised heart failure: A focus on patients with and without chronic kidney disease

Estimated protein intake and prognosis in hospitalised heart failure: A focus on patients with and without chronic kidney disease

The Relationship Between Dance Training Volume, Body Composition, and Habitual Diet in Female Collegiate Dancers: The Intercollegiate Artistic Athlete Research Assessment (TIAARA) Study.

This study's purpose was to evaluate the relationship between dance training volume, body composition, and habitual diet in female collegiate dancers. Thirty-three female collegiate dancers from three dance programs (20.4 ± 1.05 yrs.; 165.4 ± 11.3 cm, BMI 21.3 ± 3.4 kg/m2) participated in "The Intercollegiate Artistic Athlete Research Assessment (TIAARA)" study. We assessed dance training volume, body composition, and habitual diet. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (means ± SD). Two-sample t-tests were conducted to compare reported intake values versus sports nutrition recommendations. Two-tailed Pearson correlations (r) were computed for body composition and dietary intake (p < 0.05). Collegiate dancers were enrolled in 16 ± 2.09 semester credits, with 7.7 ± 3.8 credits as dance movement courses and an additional 3.0 ± 1.5 h/week of rehearsal time. Body composition assessments included fat mass (24.4 ± 6.8%), lean mass (LM) (42.4 ± 10.1 kg), and total body water (32.6 ± 4.6 L). Habitual diets reflected a low-calorie diet (1399 ± 648 kcal/d), with ~20% of dancers consuming a very low-calorie diet (≤1000 kcal/d). Dancers reported under-consuming dietary protein (54.3 ± 26.2 g) and carbohydrate (171.8 ± 77.8 g). LM was positively correlated with daily total energy (r = 0.333), fat (r = 0.37), protein (r = 0.349), and leucine intake (r = 0.352). Our findings emphasize the positive effect of adequate nutritional quantity and quality on body composition in female collegiate dancers.

The distinct mechanism regulating taurine homeostasis in mice: Nutrient availability affects taurine levels in the liver and energy restriction influences it in the intestine

AimsOur previous findings indicate that caloric restriction (CR) stimulates the production and secretion of taurine-conjugated bile acids in mice. Subsequent processing by gut microbiota leads to increased levels of deconjugated bile acids, taurine, and various taurine conjugates in the intestine. Furthermore, we demonstrated that carbohydrate restriction and protein restriction, to a smaller extent, mirror the impact of CR in terms of hepatic production of bile acids but not their secretion. We hypothesized that modulating dietary macronutrient levels would influence taurine homeostasis in the liver and intestine of ad libitum-fed and CR animals. Materials and methodsAd libitum-fed male mice were allocated to receive either a control, low-protein (LP), low-fat (LF), or low-carbohydrate (LC) diet. Meanwhile, CR groups were given 80 % of their regular voluntary food intake as a control, high-protein (HP), high-fat (HF), or high-carbohydrate (HC) diet. Key findingsWhile CR did not affect the taurine levels and its conjugates in the liver, alteration in carbohydrates and protein intake impacted it. Conversely, in the intestine, CR increased the amount of free and conjugated taurine, whereas the various diets did not affect it or disrupt the CR-specific phenotype. Notably, variations in diet composition impacted the expression of the taurine transporter (Slc6a6) and glutathione-S transferases (GST) in the intestine as well as cysteine dioxygenase (Cdo) in the liver. SignificanceThe liver and the intestine show distinct responses to dietary interventions, with hepatic taurine being affected by the diet composition, while intestinal taurine is governed by energy availability.

The Impact of Prior Related Behavior on Stunting Incidents Abang I Health Center, Karangasem District, Bali, Indonesia

Background: Stunting is growth failure in children under 5 years due to chronic malnutrition, often occurring during the first 1000 days of life. Maternal behavior during pregnancy has a major impact on fetal development and the possibility of stunting. This study aims to analyze the relationship between prior related behavior, such as blood increasing tablets consumption, antenatal care checks, and animal protein consumption, with the incidence of stunting in the Abang I Community Health Center Work Area, Karangasem Regency. Methods: Using non-probability sampling technique with Purposive sampling, with a total of 70 respondents from a total population of 230 people who met the inclusion criteria, namely mothers aged 15-45 years, mothers who had stunted toddlers and were registered in the Abang I Community Health Center Working Area. Results: Based on non-probability statistical tests. Spearman Rank parametric, found a significant p-value for blood increasing tablets consumption behavior (p=0.002), Antenatal care examination (p=0.004), and animal protein consumption (p=0.002), showing a value &lt;0.05 which means there is a relationship with stunting incident. The majority of respondents showed bad behavior in these three areas, namely consump blood increasing tabletstion behavior 55.7%, antenatal care examination 55.7% and animal protein consumption 52.9%. It is hoped that health workers at the Community Health Center will follow up with pregnant women and teenage girls in coordination with the village or Community Health Center for education about the importance of blood increasing tablets, antenatal care examinations, and animal protein intake to prevent stunting in toddlers. Conclusion: There is a relationship between maternal behavior in consuming blood supplement tablets, antenatal care and animal protein consumption with the incidence of stunting in the working area of Puskesmas Abang I, Karangasem district, Bali, Indonesia.

Oral Antacid Use Is Negatively Associated with Serum Prealbumin Levels in Japanese Individuals Undergoing Health Checkups.

The aim of this study is to investigate the association between physical and chemical digestion and nutrition markers (serum albumin (ALB), prealbumin (PAB), and vitamin B12 (B12) levels). During a detailed checkup at Fujita Health University, we examined the associations of physical (occlusal force, masticatory performance, and swallowing ability (via the 10-item Eating Assessment Tool, EAT-10)) and chemical (Helicobacter pylori (HP) eradication history, HP antibody levels, and oral antacid (proton pump inhibitors) use) digestion parameters with serum ALB, PAB, and B12 levels in 92 individuals (M:67, F:25). Forty-eight percent of the participants were older than 65 years of age, 19% had decreased occlusal force, 3.2% had decreased masticatory strength, 3.2% had decreased swallowing function, 24% had a history of HP eradication, 23% were HP antibody positive, and 16% were taking oral antacid medication. Additionally, 14% and 11% of the patients had low serum ALB and PAB levels, respectively, and 14% of the patients had B12 deficiency. Multivariate analysis adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and C-reactive protein levels revealed that there were no significant associations between the physical digestion parameters and the serum PAB, ALB, or B12 levels. On the other hand, there was a significant association between oral antacid use and PAB levels (β = -3.3, p = 0.04). Independent of physical or chemical digestion parameters, serum PAB and B12 levels were significantly associated with protein and B12 intake, respectively. Oral antacid use may decrease serum PAB levels, indicating protein synthesis.

High cotinine levels as an associated factor with frailty status in older adults: evidence from the NHANES study

IntroductionSmoking has been recognized as a contributing factor to frailty in older adults. Nevertheless, it remains uncertain whether the degree of smoking has a discernible impact on frailty among older smokers. This cross-sectional study was conducted to investigate the correlation between serum cotinine levels, a biomarker reflecting tobacco exposure, and the presence of frailty within a nationally representative cohort of older adults.MethodA total of 1626 individuals aged ≥ 60 who identified as smokers were included in the analysis. Participants were selected based on self-reported current smoking status. According to the Fried Phenotype, frailty is assessed through five dimensions: unintentional weight loss, slow walking speed, weakness, self-reported exhaustion, and low physical activity. Participants with three or more of these conditions were categorized as frailty, those with at least one but less than three as pre-frailty, and those with none as robust. Multinomial logistic regression models were employed to explore the relationship between serum cotinine level quartiles, with the lowest quartile as the reference group, and the various frailty statuses, with robustness as the reference category. These models were adjusted for covariates, including age, sex, race/ethnicity, alcohol drinking, daily protein intake, systolic blood pressure, serum albumin level, depressive symptoms, and cognitive function. The data used for this analysis were sourced from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey for the years 2011 to 2014.ResultsThe median age of the participants was 69.0 years. The majority were male (62.2%) and non-Hispanic White (49.0%). The distribution of frailty statuses among the participants revealed that the highest proportion had pre-frailty (50.7%), followed by robustness (41.1%), and frailty (8.2%). Multinomial logistic regression showed that participants in the 4th quartile of serum cotinine level exhibited a higher probability of pre-frailty versus robustness (Odds ratio [OR] 1.599, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.017, 2.513, P = 0.042). Participants in the 3rd quartile of serum cotinine level had higher odds of frailty versus robustness (OR 2.403, 95% CI 1.125, 5.134, P = 0.024). Moreover, participants whose serum cotinine levels were higher than the literature cutoffs (≥ 15 ng/ml) were more likely to be pre-frail (Odds ratio [OR] 1.478, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.017, 2.150, P = 0.035) or frail (Odds ratio [OR] 2.141, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.054, 4.351, P = 0.041).ConclusionsA higher serum cotinine level is linked to an elevated probability of pre-frailty and frailty among older smokers. Initiatives geared towards assisting older smokers in reducing or quitting their smoking habits might possibly play a crucial role in preventing pre-frailty and frailty.