Use Of Nutritional Supplements Research Articles

How Can We Improve the Appetite of Older Patients on Dialysis in Japan?

It is necessary to ensure adequate energy and protein intake in dialysis patients. However, in addition to the decline in dietary intake in older dialysis patients due to aging, the rate of anorexia is high in dialysis patients, which increases the risk of protein–energy wasting (PEW), sarcopenia, and frailty. There are many causes of anorexia in dialysis patients, including older dialysis patients, and approaches to improve the appetite of such patients have been reported; however, there has been no established approach to improve appetite adequately. Therefore, a key practical goal is to identify anorexia early and implement timely interventions before weight loss occurs. Appetite assessment tools and weight loss assessments are helpful for the screening and early identification of anorectic signs. Nutritional interventions include reducing dietary restrictions, using oral nutritional supplements, and intradialytic parenteral nutrition, as well as replenishing energy, protein, and zinc to prevent the development of nutritional disorders among older dialysis patients. Appetite assessments, early intervention, and dietary and nutritional counseling are key to improving appetite in these patients. The aging rate of dialysis patients in Japan is unprecedented globally, and I believe that this is a situation that will eventually occur in other countries as well. I discuss the factors that contribute to anorexia, especially in older dialysis patients, and Japan’s efforts to address this problem, such as the relaxation of dietary restrictions and the use of oral nutritional supplements.

Protective effects of oyster polypeptide on cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppressed rats.

Oyster polypeptide (OP) is a mixture of oligopeptides extracted from oysters through enzyme lysis, separation, and purification. It is associated with immunomodulatory effects, but the underlying mechanisms are not known. This study therefore combined proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1H-NMR) urinary metabolomics and 16S rRNA gene sequencing of the gut microbiome to determine the immunoprotective mechanisms of OP in rats subjected to cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression. Oyster polypeptide restored the body weight and the structure of spleen and thymus in rats with cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression. It upregulated the levels of white blood cells (WBCs), hemoglobin (HGB), platelets (PLT), red blood cells (RBCs), immunoglobulin G (IgG), immunoglobulin M (IgM), cytokines such as interleukin‑6 (IL-6) and tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α), and increased the numbers of CD3+ and CD4+ T cells in the immunosuppressed rats. The 1H-NMR metabolomics results showed that OP significantly reversed the levels of ten metabolites in urine, including 2-oxoglutarate, citrate, dimethylamine, taurine, N-phenylacetylglycine, alanine, betaine, creatinine, uracil, and benzoate. The 16S rRNA gene sequencing results showed that OP restored the gut microbiome homeostasis by increasing the abundance of beneficial bacteria and reducing the abundance of pathogenic bacteria. Finally, a combination of metabolomics and microbiomics found that the metabolism of taurine and hypotaurine, and the metabolism of alanine, aspartate, and glutamate were disturbed, but these metabolic pathways were restored by OP. This study demonstrated that OP had immunoprotective effects in rats with cyclophosphamide-induced immunosuppression by restoring key metabolic pathways and the gut microbiome homeostasis. Our findings provide a framework for further research into the immunoregulatory mechanisms of OP and its potential use in drugs and nutritional supplements. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.

Patient Perception of Preoperative Nutrition and Recovery After Orthopaedic Surgery

BackgroundMounting evidence supports the use of nutritional supplementation to improve patient outcomes. The intent of this study was to utilize an anonymous questionnaire to determine patients’ baseline knowledge, attitude, and belief regarding nutrition before total hip (THA) or total knee arthroplasty (TKA). MethodsAfter receiving Institutional Review Board approval, an anonymous questionnaire was administered to 300 patients, comprising 184 women (61.3%) and 116 men (38.6%), averaging 67 years (range, 39 to 89). There were 238 TKAs (79.3%), 12 revision TKAs (4%), 44 THAs (14.6%), and 6 revision THAs (2%). ResultsAlmost all (99.6%) subjects recognized the importance of preoperative nutrition. Most (83.0%) claimed that they knew what to eat preoperatively to optimize their surgical outcomes and expressed high levels of self-reported confidence (98.6%). Women were more likely to report having knowledge of preoperative nutrition (P = .05), and advanced education levels were linked to higher confidence (P = .002). Only 169 (56.3%) subjects reported knowing what supplements to take. When asked, 84% of subjects stated that they would purchase a nutrition program if recommended by their surgeon. Most studies show that an improved diet and appropriate supplementation can optimize nutritional status and potentially improve surgical outcomes. ConclusionsThe results of this study confirm that most patients do not know how to achieve optimal nutrition. Therefore, we believe there is a need for patient education on preoperative nutrition and its benefits.

Prevalence of malnutrition, dietary trends, and oral nutritional supplements use among Algerian cancer outpatients undergoing chemotherapy

ObjectiveIt is widely acknowledged that patients with cancer commonly experience malnutrition, and some individuals may adopt specific dietary trends. This study investigated the prevalence of malnutrition and dietary trends among Algerian cancer outpatients undergoing chemotherapy. Material and methodsThis cross-sectional, descriptive study was conducted from January to October 2023 with 71 cancer outpatients undergoing chemotherapy. Malnutrition risk was evaluated using the Malnutrition Screening Tool (MST). The questionnaire also collected the occurrence of nutrition impact symptoms, the avoidance of specific food groups, and the use of oral nutritional supplements and dietary supplements. ResultsMalnutrition risk was identified in 57.7% (41 cases) of participants. Nutrition impact symptoms were reported by 59.2% (42 cases) of patients. A total of 36 of the patients (50.7%) altered their eating habits by avoiding at least one food group. Among malnourished cancer outpatients, only five used oral nutritional supplements. Dietary supplements were used by 23.9% (27/71) of the patients after cancer diagnosis. ConclusionOur findings underscore the necessity for a systematic malnutrition assessment in cancer patients. Qualified clinicians should provide nutritional awareness to enhance the quality of life for these patients.

Actions alimentation-nutrition pratiquées dans les établissements médicosociaux et de santé de Nouvelle-Aquitaine, intérêt et utilisation des services proposés par le centre de ressources en nutrition (Cerenut) de cette région

Introduction and objectiveThe functioning of establishments for elderly or disabled people regarding food and nutrition is poorly understood. In the French Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, there is a Nutrition Resource Center (Cerenut) responsible for helping establishments on these issues. The study aimed to find out the main food and nutrition actions practiced in medico-social and health establishments in Nouvelle-Aquitaine, their perception of the interest of the various services offered by Cerenut and the levels of use of these services. MethodA secure questionnaire was sent electronically to 2625 establishments. Declarative data was collected automatically over a period of one month. ResultsThe number of responding establishments was 172 (6.6% of establishments contacted). The use of oral nutritional supplements, weighing at least once a month and the presence of a menu committee were the most frequent actions. Nutritional issues were an important concern for establishment budgets. The nutritional assessment of residents upon entry and the use of dietary time remained infrequent, as did the practice of enteral nutrition. Establishments for people with disabilities were the worst off. Cerenut's services relating to team training were considered the most interesting and the most used. ConclusionSeveral fundamental food and nutrition actions were not carried out in the establishments surveyed, likely to hamper the nutritional assessment of residents, their care and the enhancement of their stays. Cerenut offers training and can provide structures with appropriate assistance in many cases.

Correction of manifestations of psychoemotional stress in students: meditative techniques in combination with pharmacological support in the martial art of ju-jutsu

The goal is to substantiate and experimentally verify the effectiveness of the combined meditative-pharmacological methodology of relieving emotional stress in students of higher education institutions during Ju-jutsu martial arts classes. Methodology: analysis and generalization of educational and methodological literature, systematization of scientific data, generalization of practical experience, comparison of different views on the investigated problem; pedagogical survey for the purpose of studying the level of stress resistance. Scientific novelty. An analysis of modern scientific and scientific-methodological literature was carried out and factors influencing the mental health of students were investigated, in particular, the severity of manifestations of psycho-emotional stress during studies in institutions of higher education, and the negative impact of this phenomenon on the functional state of organs and systems of the body was proven. deterioration of health and quality of life. The expediency of using meditative techniques to reduce the severity of stressful manifestations is shown. For the first time in the practice of martial arts, a combination of meditation was used during the training process of students engaged in the martial art of ju-jutsu to reduce the severity of manifestations of stress, and the use of a special nutritional supplement with a neuroprotective focus "Acetyl-L-carnitine" to correct the manifestations of emotional stress that occurs in students of higher education institutions during their studies. Conclusions. To reduce the manifestations of stress, students use means that not only do not correspond to the prevention of mental health, but also often have a negative effect on it (nicotine, alcohol, drugs, physical and mental overload, etc.). For this purpose, the use of meditative techniques in combination with special neuroprotective agents significantly helps to reduce the severity of manifestations of psychoemotional stress of university students.

Efficacy of oral nutritional supplement in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.

The use of oral nutritional supplement (ONS) is one of the modalities employed to manage cancer-associated malnutrition. However, evidence of its efficacy is limited. In 2018, a meta-analysis reported the statistical benefits of increased body weight from ONS. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of ONS in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy in more recent trials. All randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of adult cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, which compared ONS with standard of care and reported on body weight, nutritional status, or quality of life (QoL), were included. Eligible RCTs were identified from PubMed, OVID, and the references of previous systematic reviews up until February 2023. The risk of bias was assessed using the Revised Cochrane risk-of-bias tool. The outcomes of interest were pooled and analyzed using the mean difference (MD) with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI). This study was registered in PROSPERO, number CRD42023400471. Ten RCTs comprising 1,101 patients were included. ONS did not show a significant impact on final body weight (MD -0.07 kg, 95% CI: -0.99 to 0.84, P=0.88). It tended to increase body weight (MD 0.90 kg, 95% CI: -0.48 to 2.28, P=0.20), and this benefit was particularly noticeable in elderly patients, those with low baseline body weight, females, and non-Asian patients. After adjusting for risk of bias, ONS was found to significantly increase body weight (MD 1.32 kg, 95% CI: 0.12 to 2.52, P=0.03), and it also tended to enhance Patient-Generated Subjective Global Assessment (PG-SGA) score of -2.13 (95% CI: -5.07 to 0.82, P=0.16), global domain QoL score of 4.01 (95% CI: 0.08 to 7.94, P=0.05) and fatigue domain QoL score of -7.63 (95% CI: -13.87 to -1.39, P=0.02). ONS could help to increase body weight in cancer patients receiving chemotherapy. This benefit was especially notable in those at high risk of malnutrition, including elderly patients, those with low baseline body weight, females, and non-Asian patients. It also resulted in improved PG-SGA scores and significantly improved patients' QoL during chemotherapy treatment. Future studies should explore the potential benefit of ONS on oncological outcomes or improvements of chemotherapy-related toxicity.

Prevalence of the use of oral nutritional supplements among acute inpatients at risk of malnutrition and associated patient characteristics.

To provide a snapshot of the current use of oral nutritional supplements, its association with inpatient characteristics, and with a focus on the role of nursing monitoring of food intake and implementing nutritional interventions for patients with low intake. Retrospective cohort study. The study collected data from a hospital database regarding oral nutritional supplement initiation and variables of patients hospitalised in internal medicine departments, who did not receive enteral or parenteral nutrition. Of the 5155 admissions, 1087 fulfilled the inclusion criteria (47% female; mean age, 72.4 ± 14.6 years; mean length of stay, 14.6 ± 11.4 days). Sufficient food intake reporting was noted in 74.6% of the patients; of these 17% had decreased intake. Oral nutritional supplements and non-oral nutritional supplements groups did not differ in terms of sex, age, length of stay, Charlson Comorbidity Index, proportion of nursing reports, and absence of intake monitoring. Oral nutritional supplements were initiated in 31.9% of patients with a Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool score ≥2 and in 34.6% with decreased food intake. On multivariable analysis, hypoalbuminemia (adjusted odds ratio, 3.70), decreased food intake (adjusted odds ratio, 3.38), Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool score ≥2 (adjusted odds ratio, 2.10), and age <70 years (adjusted odds ratio, 1.56) were significantly associated with oral nutritional supplements use. The prevalence of oral nutritional intervention was suboptimal in patients at risk of malnutrition during acute hospitalisation, although decreased food intake and Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool score ≥2 independently increased the probability of oral nutritional supplements initiation. Understanding the clinical practice and nursing impact of care management in relation to nutritional intervention can assist in reviewing and improving patient care. IMPLICATIONS FOR THE PROFESSION AND/OR PATIENT CARE IMPACT (ADDRESSING): This study informs clinical management and influences nursing practice standards related to assessing, monitoring, and managing malnutrition risk. The study impacts the quality of care for patients at risk of malnutrition. We adhered to the STROBE Checklist for cohort studies. No Patient or Public Contribution.

Athletes' nutritional demands: a narrative review of nutritional requirements.

Nutrition serves as the cornerstone of an athlete's life, exerting a profound impact on their performance and overall well-being. To unlock their full potential, athletes must adhere to a well-balanced diet tailored to their specific nutritional needs. This approach not only enables them to achieve optimal performance levels but also facilitates efficient recovery and reduces the risk of injuries. In addition to maintaining a balanced diet, many athletes also embrace the use of nutritional supplements to complement their dietary intake and support their training goals. These supplements cover a wide range of options, addressing nutrient deficiencies, enhancing recovery, promoting muscle synthesis, boosting energy levels, and optimizing performance in their respective sports or activities. The primary objective of this narrative review is to comprehensively explore the diverse nutritional requirements that athletes face to optimize their performance, recovery, and overall well-being. Through a thorough literature search across databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus, we aim to provide evidence-based recommendations and shed light on the optimal daily intakes of carbohydrates, protein, fats, micronutrients, hydration strategies, ergogenic aids, nutritional supplements, and nutrient timing. Furthermore, our aim is to dispel common misconceptions regarding sports nutrition, providing athletes with accurate information and empowering them in their nutritional choices.

The effectiveness of a home-based dietetic intervention for community-dwelling older adults.

The aim of this study was to describe the characteristics of clients receiving home-based dietetic intervention and to evaluate the effectiveness of these interventions in improving nutritional status, functional status, and quality of life in a culturally and socioeconomically diverse client group. Participants referred to a home-based dietetic service were recruited to this prospective cohort study. Dietetic interventions were recommended at baseline and reviewed at 3-month follow-up. Assessment of nutritional, functional and quality of life markers was measured using the Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA), Timed Up and Go (TUG) and EQ-5D-5L, respectively, at baseline and after home-based dietetic intervention. Participants (n = 99) were recruited from consecutive referrals. Participant's weight, body mass index (BMI), total daily energy and protein intake, MNA total score, and TUG significantly improved after a 3-month nutrition intervention (effect sizes 0.257, 0.257, 0.580, 0.533, 0.577 and 0.281, respectively). The most common interventions dietitians utilised were nutrition education, use of oral nutritional supplements (ONS) and meal fortification. In total, 339 dietetic interventions were recommended to participants at baseline with 197 (58.11%) implemented at 3 months, with meal planning and referral to other relevant allied health or Commonwealth Home Support Program (CHSP) services the most implemented interventions. Home-based dietetic intervention improves nutritional status, functional status and quality of life in community-dwelling older adults referred for dietetic input. Improvements observed in nutritional and functional status were consistent with benchmarks of change from published literature.

Effect of Nutraceutical Factors on Hepatic Intermediary Metabolism in Wistar Rats with Induced Tendinopathy.

Tendinopathy (TP) is a complex clinical syndrome characterized by local inflammation, pain in the affected area, and loss of performance, preceded by tendon injury. The disease develops in three phases: Inflammatory phase, proliferative phase, and remodeling phase. There are currently no proven treatments for early reversal of this type of injury. However, the metabolic pathways of the transition metabolism, which are necessary for the proper functioning of the organism, are known. These metabolic pathways can be modified by a number of external factors, such as nutritional supplements. In this study, the modulatory effect of four dietary supplements, maslinic acid (MA), hydroxytyrosol (HT), glycine, and aspartate (AA), on hepatic intermediary metabolism was observed in Wistar rats with induced tendinopathy at different stages of the disease. Induced tendinopathy in rats produces alterations in the liver intermediary metabolism. Nutraceutical treatments modify the intermediary metabolism in the different phases of tendinopathy, so AA treatment produced a decrease in carbohydrate metabolism. In lipid metabolism, MA and AA caused a decrease in lipogenesis at the tendinopathy and increased fatty acid oxidation. In protein metabolism, MA treatment increased GDH and AST activity; HT decreased ALT activity; and the AA treatment does not cause any alteration. Use of nutritional supplements of diet could help to regulate the intermediary metabolism in the TP.

High School Athletes’ Use and Knowledge of (Safe) Nutritional Supplement Use: An Exploratory Study

The use of nutritional supplements can lead to doping risk and no data exist on high school athletes’ use of certified third-party tested supplements. A cross-sectional cohort design was developed using an anonymous survey. Descriptive data for supplement use, use of third-party tested supplements, and knowledge in high school athletes were reported. A total of 225 high school athletes, ranging from 14-19 years of age, from a private high school in the western US, were included in the analysis of the results. A total of 94% (n=211) of athletes reported nutritional supplement use within the past year with an average of six (interquartile range: 3-9) individual supplements, ranging from 0-20 supplements per person. Most frequently reported were sports drinks (72%), vitamins (65%), sports bars (60%), protein powder (58%), caffeine (37%, as part of normal beverages, or 13% as a supplement), followed by creatine (23%). A total of 24% claimed to know for sure that all their supplements were third-party tested. In addition, the recognition of third-party testing organization icons was low (46% in supplement users vs. 14% in nonusers). Athletes also scored low in reporting how to find (22%) and how to order (25%) third-party tested supplements. In conclusion, almost all athletes in this study reported the use of multiple nutritional supplements annually. Only one-fourth of the athletes reported consistently using third-party tested supplements. Knowledge of where and how tested supplements could be purchased was limited in this high school athlete population.

Evaluation of the relationship between nutritional habits, use of nutritional supplements and intuitive eating of healthcare professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic

The aim of this study was to evaluate the relationship between the nutritional habits, use of nutritional supplements and intuitive eating of healthcare professionals between the ages of 18 and 65 living in Türkiye during the COVID-19 pandemic. This study was conducted with a total of 252 participants (208 female, 44 male) between February 1 and May 1, 2021. Data were obtained from an online questionnaire form, which included a questionnaire consisting of questions about the socio-demographic characteristics of the participants, their nutritional habits, anthropometric measurements and nutritional supplements and the Intuitive Eating Scale-2 (IES). While the mean IES score of the participants was 3.35±0.44, it was 3.46±0.39 for males and 3.33±0.44 for females. The mean scores of participants from Unconditional Permission to Eat, Eating For Physical Rather Than Emotional Reasons, Reliance on Hunger and Satiety Cues and Body-Food Choice Congruence sub-dimensions of the scale were 3.16±0.67, 3.21±0.82, 3.58±0.79 and 3.59±0.70, respectively. A total of 27.8% of the participants were found to use nutritional supplements. There was no statistically significant relationship between the total score of IES and the sub-dimension mean scores and the status of the use of nutritional supplements. As a result of the study, a negative statistically significant relationship was found between the Body Mass Index values of the participants and the IES (p&lt;0.001). In other words, as the BMI value increases, intuitive eating levels decrease. Improving the level of intuitive eating would be a helpful factor in controlling body weight.

Dietary supplement use among medical students at the University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia

Objectives: To estimate the prevalence and assess the awareness and attitude regarding dietary supplement usage among medical students and interns of Tabuk University and to explore the associations between dietary supplement usage and the participants&amp;apos; gender, age, and academic year. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted among male and female medical students and interns aged 18 years and above at the University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia, from June to the end of July, 2021. Data were obtained from the study participants through an online, self-administered questionnaire. Results: The prevalence of dietary supplement usage among the participants was 50%. There were no significant associations between nutritional supplement use and the gender, age, or academic level of the study group (all p-values &amp;gt; 0.05.). Common reasons for using dietary supplements were promoting general health (30.9%) and nutritional deficiencies (29.3%). The described adverse effects of dietary supplements comprised sleeplessness, heart palpitations, seizure, and shortness of breath (12.5%, 10.3%, 4.4%, and 2.1%, respectively), and a more significant number (70.7%) reported other harmful effects. Higher percentage of the participants thought that using dietary supplements is good for their health (80.7%) and necessary for food metabolism (78.7%). Conclusions: There was a relatively high prevalence of dietary supplement use among medical students and interns at the University of Tabuk, Saudi Arabia. The medical students and interns had a positive attitude towards using dietary supplements. However, the self-reported knowledge about the dosage, side effects, and interactions with concomitantly used drugs was limited.

Implications of lifestyle factors on male reproductive health.

In recent decades, there has been a substantial decline in sperm quality in humans, with lifestyle factors playing a major role in this trend. There are several lifestyle factors which are contributing to male infertility. This review, however, discusses factors such as obesity, diet/nutrition, psychological stress, radiation exposure, cigarette smoking, and alcohol use with reference to male infertility. Sperm count, motility, morphology and sperm DNA may be adversely affected by lifestyle factors, which may also affect the endocrine regulation of reproductive function. The decline in male fertility has a significant impact on fertility rates, and the resulting implications for the human population make this a serious public health concern in the twenty-first century. Thus, lifestyle interventions through a specific framework of educational, environmental, nutritional/physical exercise, and psychological support coupled with the use of nutritional antioxidants supplements can help couples achieve better health and well-being and improve their fertility prospects or increase their chances of conception.

Antibacterial Activity of Hibiscus Flower Extracts

In Ayurveda and the traditional Chinese medicine system, it is well documented that the use of herbal extracts and nutritional supplements for the treatment of various diseases. The Hibiscus plant has been used as a diuretic, mild laxative, and treatment for cardiac and nerve diseases. This plant is used for mild laxative effect, the ability to increase urination, relief during hot weather, and treatment of cracks in the feet, bilious, sores, and wounds. The purpose of this study was to examine the evolution of antimicrobial activity of flower extract of Hibiscus against human pathogens. Fresh flowers and dried flower powder were used for extract production. Two types of extracts were prepared, viz. aqueous and solvent extracts. Their antibacterial activity was studied against different human pathogens. Well agar diffusion assay was used for antibacterial investigation.

Nutritional interventions in frailty in older adults: a narrative review on the current evidence

In recent years there has been an increase in elderly population and frailty. Although there is no universal definition of frailty, the most used is the frailty phenotype defined by Fried et al. (2001). Unbalanced eating habits and/or an inadequate nutritional status are modifiable risk factors for frailty. The aim of this literature review is to analyse the role of nutrition in frailty’s treatment in community-dwelling, institutionalized and hospitalized older adults. Regardless the setting, educational strategies, food fortification, supplementation, multidisciplinary and individualized interventions are important and effective strategies for frailty’s treatment. In community-dwelling older adults, multifactorial interventions that combine nutritional education and supplementation seem to be effective in treating frailty. In institutionalized older adults, multifactorial intervention that include protein-energy, vitamin D, calcium and fiber and physical exercise improves nutritional status and also physical capacity. In hospital setting, the most effective strategy is an individualized approach regarding patients’ favourite foods, additional snacks, the use of oral nutritional supplements or use protein-enriched foods and artificial nutrition when necessary. Further studies are needed in order to establish specific recommendations for the intervention in the prevention and treatment of frailty in older adults.

The association of the Affordable Care Act with nutrient consumption in adults in the United States.

The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, more commonly known as the ACA, was legislation passed in the United States in 2010 to expand access to health insurance coverage for millions of Americans with a key emphasis on preventive care. Nutrition plays a critical role in overall wellness, disease prevention and resilience to chronic illness but prior to the ACA many Americans did not have adequate health insurance coverage to ensure proper nutrition. With passage of the ACA, more individuals received access to nutritional counseling through their primary care physicians as well as prescription vitamins and supplements free of charge. The objective of this study was to evaluate the impact of a national health insurance reform on nutrient intake among general population, including more vulnerable low-income individuals and patients with chronic conditions. Using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), we identified 8,443 adults aged 21 years and older who participated in the survey before (2011-2012) and after the ACA (2015-2016) implementation and conducted a subgroup analysis of 952 respondents who identified as Medicaid beneficiaries and 719 patients with a history of cancer. Using pre-post study design and bivariate and multivariable logistic analyses, we compared nutrient intake from food and supplementation before and after the ACA and identified risk factors for inadequate intake. Our results suggest that intake of micronutrients found in nutrient-dense foods, mainly fruit and vegetables, has not changed significantly after the ACA. However, overall use of nutritional supplements increased after the ACA (p = 0.05), particularly magnesium (OR = 1.02), potassium (OR = 0.76), vitamin D (both D2, and D3, OR = 1.34), vitamin K (OR = 1.15) and zinc (OR = 0.83), for the general population as well as those in our subgroup analysis Cancer Survivors and Medicaid Recipients. Given the association of increased use of nutritional supplements and expansion of insurance access, particularly in our subgroup analysis, more research is necessary to understand the effect of increasing access to nutritional supplements on the overall intake of micro- and macronutrients to meet daily nutritional recommended allowances.

Use of oral nutritional supplements in irradiated patients with head and neck cancer.

Malnutrition is common among patients with head and neck cancer (HNC) and associated with poorer outcomes. Oral nutritional supplements (ONS) are often prescribed, with concerns raised about their cariogenicity. This study examined ONS use and caries experience in patients with HNC 12 months post-diagnosis. Fifty-four patients with HNC referred for pre-radiotherapy dental assessment were recruited. Data collected included: age, gender, residential postcode, smoking, alcohol use, HNC characteristics, dental history, oral hygiene habits, dietary advice and ONS use. Data was collected at diagnosis, during radiotherapy and 6 weeks, three, six- and 12-monthspost-treatment completion. Fifty-one subjects completed the study. 76.5% of the participants used ONS for an average of 13.8 weeks. Caries developed in 22.9% of ONS users and 11.1% of non-users (p = 0.6585). The mean overall duration of ONS use was 18.7 weeks for the caries group and 8.5 weeks for the caries-free group (p = 0.1507). Lack of collaboration and disconnection was noted between dietary advice given by dieticians and dentists. ONS use is common among patients with HNC. Larger studies are needed to establish the reasons for caries development and impacts of ONS use on oral health. Importance of multidisciplinary management of malnutrition is highlighted.

Improving Cognitive Function with Nutritional Supplements in Aging: A Comprehensive Narrative Review of Clinical Studies Investigating the Effects of Vitamins, Minerals, Antioxidants, and Other Dietary Supplements.

Cognitive impairment and dementia are burgeoning public health concerns, especially given the increasing longevity of the global population. These conditions not only affect the quality of life of individuals and their families, but also pose significant economic burdens on healthcare systems. In this context, our comprehensive narrative review critically examines the role of nutritional supplements in mitigating cognitive decline. Amidst growing interest in non-pharmacological interventions for cognitive enhancement, this review delves into the efficacy of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and other dietary supplements. Through a systematic evaluation of randomized controlled trials, observational studies, and meta-analysis, this review focuses on outcomes such as memory enhancement, attention improvement, executive function support, and neuroprotection. The findings suggest a complex interplay between nutritional supplementation and cognitive health, with some supplements showing promising results and others displaying limited or context-dependent effectiveness. The review highlights the importance of dosage, bioavailability, and individual differences in response to supplementation. Additionally, it addresses safety concerns and potential interactions with conventional treatments. By providing a clear overview of current scientific knowledge, this review aims to guide healthcare professionals and researchers in making informed decisions about the use of nutritional supplements for cognitive health.