Vegetarian Group Research Articles

Age at Menarche among the School Going Children of Jorpati, Kathmandu

Background and objectives: The present study was conducted to explore the mean age at menarche and associating factors among the Nepali school girls of Jorpati, Kathmandu. Materials and methods: The 500 girls of aged between 9-18 years were collected from the seven school of Gokarneshowr Municipality, Jorpati, Kathmandu after taking ethical clearance from NHRC. The healthy girls without any growth-related disorders and genetic abnormalities were included in the study. The consent was taken from the school authority and individual student by providing written consent and ascent form. The data thus collected were tabulated and analyzed by using SPSS 16. Results: The age at menarche of the respondents was 12.56 ±1.12years and menarchial age varied from 9-16 years. Similarly, the mean age at menarche of sisters and mothers were 12.96 ± 1.25 and 14.30 ± 1.58 respectively. The mean age at menarche of vegetarian group was 12.42 years as compared to non-vegetarian was 12.58 years. The lowest mean age at menarche was in Newar (12.30 years) and highest mean age at menarche in Limbu (13.33years). Followed by age at menarche in Brahmin (12.58 years), Chhetri (12.74 years), Rai (12.60 years), Lama (12.43 years), Gurung (12.66 years) and others (12.56 years). Conclusions: There was decrease in age at menarche with successive generation as a result of increase in urbanization, better dwelling and smaller family size as compared to previous generation.

Analysis of health-related biomarkers between vegetarians and non-vegetarians: A multi-biomarker approach

This study was performed in a group of adult vegetarians (N = 40) and matched non-vegetarian subjects (N = 40) in order to analyse differences in health-related biomarkers. Obtained results revealed differences in various biomarkers between subjects on a traditional mixed and vegetarian diet, indicating that vegetarians have a lower nutritional status of some nutrients (Ca, Cu and Zn, and vitamins B12 and D) accompanied with a lower antioxidant defence system (glutathione) and higher homocysteine and genome damage (micronuclei and DNA strand breaks), along with shorter telomeres. This suggests that the supplementation of animal derived nutrients to this particular dietary group would be beneficial for the improvement of some measured health-related biomarkers. However, the level of certain toxic metals (As and Hg) was higher in non-vegetarians. The presented multi-biomarker approach implies the necessity of evaluating a large number of different health-related biomarkers in order to obtain clear insight into dietary preferences and health outcomes.

Iron status and dietary iron intake in vegetarians

Iron is one of the nutrients that require special consideration in a plant-based diet. The widespread belief is that meat is the best source of iron and a vegetarian diet increases the risk of its deficiency. This conviction has been the subject of analysis in a growing number of scientific reports. The aim of this study was to assess the iron intake and iron metabolism in vegetarians and vegans compared to a control group. A total of 55 vegetarians and 36 healthy volunteers were studied. The following parameters were measured in serum: iron, ferritin, transferrin, transferrin receptor, and hepcidin-25, using the enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method. The dietary iron intake was assessed by a 24-h dietary recall. The mean daily intake (DI) of iron was significantly higher in the female vegan group compared to the control group. Iron, hepcidin-25, ferritin and transferrin receptor in serum remained within their normal ranges. The ferritin concentration was significantly decreased and that of transferrin significantly higher in both female groups and in the male vegan group. The obtained results show that the studied parameters, excluding transferrin, remained within normal ranges. However, the ferritin concentration was significantly decreased in the female vegetarian group and also in both vegan groups. This may indicate low iron storage.

Use of Mobile Wearable Devices to Compare Eating, Physical Activity, and Sleep Between Individuals Following Vegetarian and Omnivorous Diets

An emerging area of nutrition research is examining the health benefits of consuming plant-based diets (PBDs) since vegans or vegetarians tend to have better health outcomes than omnivores. However, a majority of the studies on PBDs rely on self-reported data for measuring dietary data and other variables, which are prone to bias or measurement error. One way to potentially address the limitations from current research is to use objective measurements. The development of various mobile health (mHealth) technologies, such as smart phone applications, automated text messaging, or wearable fitness activity monitors, allows researchers to use a low-cost and low-burden approach for objectively measuring dietary data. This informed the development of the present study. We identified two wearable mHealth devices—the Bite Counter and Misfit Flash—for the purpose of assessing eating, physical activity (PA), and sleep as compared to self-reported methods (dietary recalls, PA questionnaire, sleep dairies). Thirty-four participants that were following one of two diets (n = 12 vegetarian; n = 22 omnivore) enrolled in the study and used both devices for a week. Examining data from the devices, the vegetarian group averaged more daily steps (9909 ± 878 vegetarian vs. 6450 ± 566 omnivore, p < 0.001) and the omnivore group averaged more minutes of light sleep each night (247.4 ± 11.8 omnivore vs. 182.3 ± 18.9 vegetarian, p < 0.001); however, there were no differences in self-reported sleep or PA measures. These findings suggest wearable methods may represent a low-burden and more effective approach to collecting behavioral data that may not be captured using traditional self-reported methods.

Effect of diet on blood viscosity in healthy humans: a systematic review.

BackgroundIncreased whole blood viscosity is associated with increased risk of morbidity and mortality of several life-threatening diseases, including cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease. The effect of diet on human health has been indicated in many studies, and a health dietary pattern can reduce the incidence of several chronic diseases.ObjectiveThe aim of this systematic review was to assess the effect of diet on blood viscosity and related parameters such as haematocrit (HCT).MethodsThis systematic review was carried out in 2017. MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials were searched from inception to 2 May 2017. We selected and included randomized clinical trials (RCTs) in the study. The inclusion criteria were articles that describe the effect of any types of local and traditional diet on blood viscosity in apparently healthy individuals.ResultsThree randomized controlled trials were included in this systematic review. Different diets were used in the included trials. In one study, ingested dried–bonito broth (DBB) for four weeks, significantly reduced the blood passage time in the intervention group from 55.4±3.4 to 47.6±2.0 sec (mean ± SEM, p<0.05) compared with no significant change in the placebo group. Another study has shown significantly increased blood fluidity score in a vegetarian group in contrast to the control group after six weeks. In the last study, plasma viscosity was significantly decreased in a group which used onion–olive-oil capsules compared to the placebo group, with a highly significant difference between the two groups (p=0.0015).ConclusionsOur components of food diets may decrease blood viscosity in health status. Better and expanded methodology may improve our results.

Comparison of Renal Function and Other Predictors in Lacto–Ovo Vegetarians and Omnivores With Chronic Kidney Disease

ABSTRACTObjective Vegetarian diets have been shown to increase the risk of certain nutritional deficiencies, such as iron. As a number of patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in Taiwan are lacto–ovo vegetarians, the aim of this study was to investigate the effects of different proportions and sources of protein in lacto–ovo vegetarian and omnivorous diets, as well as the influence of adequate dietary protein intake, on renal function and nutritional status of Taiwanese patients with stage 3 to stage 5 CKD.Methods This is a cross-sectional study. In total, 100 outpatients with stage 3 to stage 5 CKD were enrolled in this study, including 40 lacto–ovo vegetarians and 60 omnivores. Subjects were divided into the lacto–ovo vegetarian group and omnivorous group based on dietary protein patterns. The indicators of renal function included estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Albumin, hemoglobin (Hb), and red blood cell count (RBC) measurements served as nutritional indicators. The levels of dietary energy and protein, as well as protein sources (plant or animal), were also analyzed.Results The levels of serum phosphate and triglycerides were significantly lower in the lacto–ovo vegetarian group than in the omnivore group, suggesting that lacto–ovo vegetarian diets have both phosphate-lowering and lipid-lowering effects, which could reduce the development of hyperphosphatemia and dyslipidemia. However, since all groups consumed higher than the recommended amounts of protein diet intake, no significant differences were observed in other renal function indices between the two groups.Conclusion Although a larger cohort study is necessary, the findings of this study could help patients with CKD to make healthier food choices and be used to support future medical nutritional therapies.

Zat gizi, massa lemak tubuh, dan tekanan darah pada wanita vegetarian dan nonvegetarian berusia 20-30 tahun

Background : Vegetarians tend to have a risk of underfat. Several studies have reported that vegetarians have lower fat and higher fiber intake, lower body fat mass and blood pressure than nonvegetarians. There are only few studies about those variabels in 20-30 year-old subject. Objective : To analyze the difference of nutrients intake, body fat mass, and blood pressure between 20-30-year-old vegetarian and nonvegetarian women.Methods : Cross-sectional study design in 26 vegetarian women and 26 nonvegetarian women who was selected by consecutive sampling. Nutrients intake were obtained by Semi Quantitative Food Frequency Questionaire (SQFFQ) and analyzed by Nutrisurvey. Body fat mass was measured using Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA). Blood pressure was measured using Mercury sphygmomanometer. Data were analyzed using Independent t-test and Mann-Whitney test.Result : There were 38.5% of vegetarians and 3.8% of nonvegetarians classified as underfat. There were 30.7% of vegetarians and 50% of nonvegetarians classified as prehypertension. There were difference in fat (p=0.005), saturated fatty acid (p=0.000), monounsaturated fatty acids (p=0.002), polyunsaturated fatty acids (p=0.043), fiber (p=0.000), potassium (p=0.000), magnesium (p=0.004); body fat mass (p=0.021); and sistolic blood pressure (p=0.004) between both of groups. There weren’t difference energy intake (p=0.098), carbohydrate (p=0.207), protein (p=0.535), sodium (p=0.784), calcium (p=0.798), and diastolic blood pressure (p=0.799) between both of groups.Conclusion : Between vegetarian group and nonvegetarian group, there were difference in fat, saturated fatty acid, monounsaturated fatty acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, fiber, potassium, magnesium intake; body fat mass; and sistolic blood pressure. However, there weren’t diffference in energy, carbohydrate, protein, sodium, calcium intake, and diastolic blood pressure between vegetarian group and nonvegetarian group

EFFECTS OF LONG TERM VEGETARIAN DIET ON INSULIN RESISTANCE AND CARDIO-VASCULAR RISK FACTORS IN MALE SUBJECTS

Objectives: To evaluate the insulin resistance and cardio-vascular risk factors among male subjects with long term vegetarian diet. Methods: 93 male subjects (age 16-78 years) had been vegetarian diet for 5 to 65 years, and 86 non-vegetarian men (age 17-72 years) were control group.They were screened for insulin resistance (fasting insulin levels and HOMA-IR) and cardio-vascular risk factors including BMI, WC, blood pressure, fasting glucose, HbA1c, lipid profile, serum levels of hsCRP and metabolic syndrome. Results: There were no differences between the male vegetarians and male non-vegetarians in BMI (22.13 ± 3.59 vs 22.56 ± 2.88, p&gt;0.05), in WC (77.61 ±8.62 vs 79.76± 7.14 cm, p&gt;0.05), in SBP (116.88±12.20 vs 122.31±13.77 mmHg, p&gt;0.05), in DBP (122.31±13.77 vs 77.76±10.00 mmHg, p &gt;0.05), in fasting glucose (4.65 ± 0.53 vs 5.05 ± 0.68 mmol/l, p &gt; 0.05), in TG (1.81 ± 1.04 vs 2.03 ± 1.16 mmol/l, p &gt;0.05), and in HDL.C (1.17 ± 0.25 vs 1.17 ± 0.31 mmol/l, p &gt;0.05) respectively. The male vegetarians had lower than the male non vegetarians in serum total cholestrol (4.05 ± 0.92 vs 5.21 ± 1.21 mmol/l, p&lt;0,01), in LDL.C (2.07 ± 0.72 vs 3.39 ± 1.09 mmol/l, p&lt;0.01), in non-HDL.C (2.88 ± 0.96 vs 4.04 ±118 mmol/l, p&lt;0.01) and in serum hsCRP concentration (0.85 ±0.94 vs 4.21 ±5.73 mg/l, p &lt; 0.05), but higher in HbA1c level (5.51± 0.71 vs 4.96 ±0.69%, p &lt; 0.01) and prevalence of HbA1c ≥ 5.7% (36% vs 5.8%, p &lt; 0.01), respectively. The vegetarian group had lower prevalence of metabolic syndrome compared to the non-vegetarian one, (12.9% vs 24.4%, p &lt;0.01). Between the male vegetarians and male non-vegetarians, there were no differences in fasting insulin (5.85 ± 4.53 vs 5.93 ± 3.2 µU/ml, p&gt;0.05), and in HOMA-IR (1.25 ±1.18 vs 1.25 ±1.18, p&gt;0.05). Conclusions: A long term vegetarian diet is associated with lower cardio-vascular risk factors such as BMI, blood pressure, hsCRP, lipid profile and metabolic syndrome but markedly higher blood glucose in male vegetarians. There are no differences in fasting insulin levels and HOMA-IR Key words: vegetarian diet, duration of vegetarian diet, cardio-vascular risk factors

EFFECTS OF VEGETARIAN DIET ON LIPID PROFILE AND SERUM LEPTIN CONCENTRATION IN MALE SUBJECTS

Objectives: To investigate the influence of vegetarian diet on lipid profile and serum levels of leptin among vegetarian males. Methods: 93 males (age 16-78 years) with duration of vegetarian diet ranged 5-65 years, were screened for lipid profile and serum Leptin concentration and 86 non-vegetarian men (age 17-72 years) were control group. Results: The vegetarian group had lower serum total cholestrol (4.05 ± 0.92 vs 5.21 ± 1.21 mmol/l, p&lt;0.01), lower LDL.C (2.07 ± 0.72 vs 3.39 ± 1.09 mmol/l, p&lt;0.01), lower non-HDL.C (2.88 ± 0.96 vs 4.04 ±118 mmol/l, p&lt;0.01), lower TC/HDL.C ratio (3.62 ± 1.18 vs 4.67 ± 1.33, p&lt;0.01), and lower LDL.C/ HDL.C ratio (1.86 ± 0.81 vs 3.06 ± 1.15, p&lt;0.05), respectively. Between the vegetarian and non-vegetarian men, there were no differences in TG (1.81 ± 1.04 vs 2.03 ± 1.16 mmol/l, p &gt;0.05), in HDL.C (1.17 ± 0.25 vs 1.17 ± 0.31 mmol/l, p &gt;0.05), and in TG/HDL.C (1.71 ± 1.26 vs 1.88 ± 1.25, p &gt;0.05), respectively. Compared to male non-vegetarian group, the male vegetarian group had lower serum concentration of leptin (1.46± 1.48 vs 3.16 ±2.95 ng/ml, p &lt; 0.01). Conclusions: A decrease in lipid profile was associated with vegetarian diet. However, long-term vegetarian diet could cause hypoleptinemia in male veretarians. Key words: vegetarian diet, serum leptin concentration, lipid profile

Worse inflammatory profile in omnivores than in vegetarians associates with the gut microbiota composition

AimsTo describe the abundance of major phyla and some genera in the gut microbiota of individuals according to dietary habits and examine their associations with inflammatory markers, insulin resistance, and cardiovascular risk profile.MethodsA total of 268 non-diabetic individuals were stratified into groups of dietary types (strict vegetarians, lacto-ovo-vegetarians, and omnivores). The taxonomic composition and phylogenetic structure of the microbiota were obtained through the analysis of the 16S rRNA gene. Samples were clustered into operational taxonomic units at 97% similarity using GreenGenes 13.5 database. Clinical, biochemical, and circulating inflammatory markers were compared by ANOVA or Kruskal–Wallis test.ResultsThe sample (54.2% women, mean age 49.5 years) was composed of 66 strict vegetarians, 102 lacto-ovo-vegetarians and 100 omnivores. Considering the entire sample, the greatest abundant phyla were Firmicutes (40.7 ± 15.9%) and Bacteroidetes (39.5 ± 19.9%), and no difference in abundances was found between individuals with normal and excess weight. Stratifying by dietary types, the proportion of Firmicutes was lower and of Bacteroidetes was higher in strict vegetarians when compared to lacto-ovo-vegetarians and omnivores. At the genus level, strict vegetarians had a higher Prevotella abundance and Prevotella/Bacteroides ratio than the other groups. They also had a lower proportion of Faecalibacterium than lacto-ovo-vegetarians, and both vegetarian groups had higher proportions than did omnivores. Succinivibrio and Halomonas from the Proteobacteria phylum were overrepresented in omnivores. The omnivorous group showed higher values of anthropometric data, insulin, HOMA-IR, and a worse lipid profile. Inflammatory markers exhibited a gradual and significant increase from the vegetarians and lacto-ovo-vegetarians to the omnivorous group.ConclusionsThere are differences in gut microbiota composition of individuals with distinct dietary habits, who differ according to their inflammatory and metabolic profiles. Based on the findings relative to bacteria abundances and on their recognized actions in the metabolism, we suggest that exposure to animal foods may favor an intestinal environment which could trigger systemic inflammation and insulin resistance-dependent metabolic disorders.

The Association between Renal Function and Its Related Predictors with Lacto-ovo Vegetarians and Omnivores in Chronic Kidney Patient

Current evidence reveals that not only the quantities but also the types of dietary protein have important implications in renal disease. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of lacto-ovo vegetarian and omnivorous diets on renal function and nutritional status in Taiwanese patients with stage 3 to 5 chronic kidney disease (CKD). This is a cross-sectional study. Outpatients with stage 3 to 5 CKD, who visited the Department of Nephrology and Nutrition at Chung Shan Medical University Hospital between June 2011 and May 2015 were enrolled. Subjects were divided into the lacto-ovo vegetarian group and omnivorous group based on dietary protein patterns. The indicators of renal function included estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), creatinine, and blood urea nitrogen (BUN). Albumin, hemoglobin (Hb), and red blood cell count (RBC) measurements served as nutritional indicators. The levels of dietary energy and protein, as well as protein sources (plant or animal), were also analyzed. A total of 100 outpatients with stage 3 to 5 CKD were enrolled in this study, including 40 lacto-ovo vegetarians and 60 omnivores. The results showed that the levels of serum phosphate and triglycerides were significantly lower in the lacto-ovo vegetarian group than those in the omnivorous group. However, there were no significant differences in the renal function indices or nutritional status between the two study groups.

The Effect of a Vegetarian vs Conventional Hypocaloric Diabetic Diet on Thigh Adipose Tissue Distribution in Subjects with Type 2 Diabetes: A Randomized Study

ABSTRACTObjective: The aim of our study was to compare the effects of a vegetarian and a conventional diet on thigh adipose tissue distribution in subjects with type 2 diabetes (T2D).Methods: Seventy-four subjects with T2D were randomly assigned to either follow a vegetarian diet (V, n = 37) or a control group who followed an isocaloric conventional anti-diabetic diet (C, n = 37). Both diets were calorie restricted (−500 kcal/day). To measure insulin sensitivity, the hyperinsulinemic (1 mU.kg−1.min−1) isoglycemic clamp was conducted. β-Cell function was assessed using a mathematical model after a test meal. Magnetic resonance imaging of the thigh was performed. All subjects were examined at 0, 3, and 6 months. Statistical analyses were performed using repeated measures analysis of variance and a multivariate regression model.Results: Greater reduction was observed in total leg area in V (−13.6 cm2 [95% confidence interval [CI], −14.2 to −12.9] in V vs −9.9 cm2 [95% CI, −10.6 to −9.2] in C; Gxt p < 0.001). The reduction in subcutaneous fat was comparable in response to both diets (Gxt, p = 0.64). Subfascial fat was reduced only in response to a vegetarian diet (−0.82 [95% CI, −1.13 to −0.55] cm2 in V vs −0.44 [95% CI, −0.78 to +0.02] cm2 in C; Gxt, p = 0.04). The reduction in intramuscular fat tended to be greater in response to a vegetarian diet (−1.78 [95% CI, −2.26 to −1.27] cm2 in V vs −0.57 [95% CI, −1.06 to −0.09] cm2 in C; Gxt, p = 0.12). Changes in subcutaneous and subfascial fat correlated with changes in glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), fasting plasma glucose, and β-cell insulin sensitivity. After adjustment for changes in body mass index (BMI), correlations remained significant for changes in fasting plasma glucose and β-cell insulin sensitivity and with changes in triglycerides.Conclusions: Our data indicate the importance of both subcutaneous and subfascial fat in relationship to glucose and lipid metabolism.Abbreviations: BMI , body mass index; C , control group; FPG , fasting plasma glucose; Gxt , interaction between group and time; HbA1c , glycated hemoglobin; MCR , metabolic clearance rate of glucose; OPLS , orthogonal projections to latent structure; T2D , type 2 diabetes; V , vegetarian group

Modulation of the cytokine profile in Caco-2 cells by faecal lactobacilli and bifidobacteria from individuals with distinct dietary habits

Enterocytes are actively involved in the defense against pathogens and they limit penetration of commensal microbes into tissues. They also have an important role in gut immunity as enterocytes confer mucosal dendritic cell specialisation. On the other hand, the microbiota is directly involved in the development and modulation of the intestinal immune system. Particularly, lactobacilli and bifidobacteria play a primary role in shaping the immune response. We further explored this issue by evaluating whether functional differences in Caco-2 cells could characterise faecal populations of lactobacilli (155 samples) and bifidobacteria (110 samples) isolated from three dietary cohorts (omnivores, ovo-lacto-vegetarians and vegans) recruited at four Italian centres (Turin, Parma, Bologna and Bari). According to our findings, tested bacteria were unable to modulate expression of IL-8, IL-10, TGF-β or thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) cytokines in unstimulated Caco-2 cells. Conversely, in phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and ionomycin (PMA/Io) stimulated Caco-2 cells, lactobacilli from the omnivorous group and all bifidobacteria significantly down-regulated IL-8. Notably, both genera also lowered the TSLP expression in stimulated Caco-2 cells, regardless of the diet regimen. By further examining these data on the basis of geographical origin, we found that lactobacilli from the vegetarian group recruited in Bari, significantly up-regulated this cytokine. In conclusion, we highlighted a peculiar immune-modulatory activity profile for lactobacilli on enterocytes undergoing a stimulatory signal, which was associated with a specific dietary habit. Furthermore, the geographical area had a significant impact on the inflammatory potential of members of the Lactobacillus genus.

Microbial Community of Healthy Thai Vegetarians and Non-Vegetarians, Their Core Gut Microbiota, and Pathogen Risk.

Pyrosequencing analysis of intestinal microflora from healthy Thai vegetarians and non-vegetarians exhibited 893 OTUs covering 189 species. The strong species indicators of vegetarians and non-vegetarians were Prevotella copri and Bacteroides vulgatus as well as bacteria close to Escherichia hermanii with % relative abundance of 16.9 and 4.5-4.7, respectively. Core gut microbiota of the vegetarian and non-vegetarian groups consisted of 11 and 20 different bacterial species, respectively, belonging to Actinobacteria, Firmicutes, and Proteobacteria commonly found in both groups. Two species, Faecalibacterium prausnitzii and Gemmiger formicilis, had a prevalence of 100% in both groups. Three species, Clostridium nexile, Eubacterium eligens, and P. copri, showed up in most vegetarians, whereas more diversity of Collinsella aerofaciens, Ruminococcus torques, various species of Bacteroides, Parabacteroides, Escherichia, and different species of Clostridium and Eubacterium were found in most non-vegetarians. Considering the correlation of personal characters, consumption behavior, and microbial groups, the age of non-vegetarians showed a strong positive correlation coefficient of 0.54 (p = 0.001) to Bacteroides uniformis but exhibited a moderate one to Alistipes finegoldii and B. vulgatus. Only a positive moderate correlation of body mass index and Parabacteroides distasonis appeared. Based on the significant abundance of potential pathogens, the microbiota of the non-vegetarian group showed an abundance of potential pathogen varieties of Bilophila wadsworthia, Escherichia coli, and E. hermannii, whereas that of the vegetarian group served for only Klebsiella pneumoniae. These results implied that the microbiota of vegetarians with high abundance of P. copri and low potential pathogen variety would be a way to maintain good health in Thais.

Potential Role of Vegetarianism on Nutritional and Cardiovascular Status in Taiwanese Dialysis Patients: A Case-Control Study.

Background & ObjectivesCardiovascular disease remains the most common cause of death for patients on chronic dialysis. End stage renal disease patients undergoing dialysis imposed to reduce phosphorus intake, which likely contributes to development of vegetarian diet behaviors. Vegetarian diets are often lower in protein content, in contradiction to the recommendation that a high protein diet is followed by patients undergoing dialysis. The purpose of the study was to investigate the effects of a vegetarian diet on the nutritional and cardiovascular status of dialysis patients.Design, Setting, Participants, MeasurementsA study of 21 vegetarian dialysis patients and 42 age- and sex-matched non-vegetarian dialysis patients selected as controls was conducted in the Kaohsiung Veterans General Hospital. Brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity and biochemistry data including total homocysteine levels, serum lipid profiles, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, vitamin D levels, albumin, and normalized protein catabolic rate were measured.ResultsCompared with the non-vegetarian control group, vegetarian subjects had lower body weight, body mass index, serum phosphate, blood urea nitrogen, serum creatinine, vitamin D, uric acid, albumin, and normalized protein catabolic rate (p < 0.05). The vegetarian group showed higher brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity than the non-vegetarian group (1926.95 ± 456.45 and 1684.82 ± 309.55 cm/sec, respectively, p < 0.05). After adjustment for age, albumin, pre-dialysis systolic blood pressure, and duration of dialysis, vegetarian diet remained an independent risk factor for brachial-ankle pulse wave velocity.ConclusionsThe present study revealed that patients on dialysis who follow vegetarian diets may experience subclinical protein malnutrition and vitamin D deficiency that could offset the beneficial cardiovascular effects of vegetarianism.

Effect of diet, body mass index, and proton pump inhibitors on antitubercular therapy-induced hyperuricemia in patients of tuberculosis

Background: Risk factors for developing hyperuricemia other than inherited abnormalities are obesity, moderate to heavy alcohol intake, high blood pressure, and abnormal kidney function. Factors that increase urate formation are excess dietary purine intake, increased nucleic acid turnover, obesity, and exercise. Factors that decrease urate excretion are kidney disease, diabetic ketoacidosis, hypertension, drugs, and trisomy 21. Aims and Objectives: To see the effect of diet, body mass index (BMI), and proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) in antitubercular therapy (ATT)–induced hyperuricemic tubercular patients. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was conducted at a tertiary care teaching hospital of Rajasthan in tubercular patients aged 18–65 years of either sex. Serum uric acid level was estimated at weekly interval after starting ATT for 2 months along with baseline value. Patients developing hyperuricemia were finally included in the study. Patients were divided into vegetarian and nonvegetarian groups. BMI of all the patients was calculated. All the patients were grouped into two categories on the basis of those receiving or not receiving PPI. Appropriate statistical tests were used to compare the data. Results: Out of the total 123 hyperuricemic patients, 71 patients were on vegetarian diet while 52 patients were on nonvegetarian diet. Difference between the serum uric acid levels of vegetarian and nonvegetarian groups was found to be insignificant. Out of the total, 90 patients were underweight, 28 were having normal weight while 5 were overweight. Pearson’s correlation test showed no correlation between BMI and serum uric acid levels. PPIs were taken by 72 patients. Difference between serum uric acid levels of patients receiving PPIs and those not receiving PPIs was found to be insignificant. Conclusion: The serum uric acid level was not found to be affected by diet, BMI, and use of PPI in ATT-treated tubercular patients probably due to some altered physiology in these patients.

The long-term health of vegetarians and vegans.

Vegetarians, who do not eat any meat, poultry or fish, constitute a significant minority of the world's population. Lacto-ovo-vegetarians consume dairy products and/or eggs, whereas vegans do not eat any foods derived wholly or partly from animals. Concerns over the health, environmental and economic consequences of a diet rich in meat and other animal products have focussed attention on those who exclude some or all of these foods from their diet. There has been extensive research into the nutritional adequacy of vegetarian diets, but less is known about the long-term health of vegetarians and vegans. We summarise the main findings from large cross-sectional and prospective cohort studies in western countries with a high proportion of vegetarian participants. Vegetarians have a lower prevalence of overweight and obesity and a lower risk of IHD compared with non-vegetarians from a similar background, whereas the data are equivocal for stroke. For cancer, there is some evidence that the risk for all cancer sites combined is slightly lower in vegetarians than in non-vegetarians, but findings for individual cancer sites are inconclusive. Vegetarians have also been found to have lower risks for diabetes, diverticular disease and eye cataract. Overall mortality is similar for vegetarians and comparable non-vegetarians, but vegetarian groups compare favourably with the general population. The long-term health of vegetarians appears to be generally good, and for some diseases and medical conditions it may be better than that of comparable omnivores. Much more research is needed, particularly on the long-term health of vegans.

Neophobic Tendencies and Dietary Behavior in A Cohort of Female College Students from Southern India

AbstractThe aim of this study was to examine the relationship of female adolescents’ neophobic tendencies with their general dietary patterns/behaviors. The study was performed at a girl's college in Secunderabad in Southern India. A survey was administered to 1,446 girls, aged 15–19 years to collect information on food neophobia and dietary practices. The results show that the nonvegetarian group was the least neophobic group out of the three diet groups, while the vegetarian group was the most neophobic. Overall there was no difference in neophobic tendencies between the two age groups (15–17 and 18–19 years).Participants who indicated that they consumed high‐fat/junk foods regularly were less neophobic. Lower food neophobia scores was a significant indicator of greater consumption of meals outside the home or take‐out meals. These results could help shape successful interventions against obesogenic behavior in adolescents.Practical ApplicationsThis study is particularly interesting because the neophobic tendencies of people living in the Indian subcontinent have been relatively undocumented. The findings from this study demonstrate that the vegetarians and the ovo‐vegetarians were more neophobic than the nonvegetarians. The nonvegetarian group had less neophobic tendencies and was more open to trying new/novel foods and cuisines than the vegetarian and ovo‐vegetarian groups. The study of food neophobia is of particular importance because food neophobia can impact food preferences. Understanding the factors influencing food preferences is essential for the implementation and promotion of positive changes in the food habits of any society, especially with the prevalence of obesity, which is becoming a growing concern in both developing and developed countries. Nutritional intake during adolescence is important for growth and the development of lifelong eating behaviors, and may have long‐term health implications. The findings from this study suggest that if programs to improve adolescent nutrition are to be effective, they need to address a broad range of factors including environmental factors.

Micronutrient status and intake in omnivores, vegetarians and vegans in Switzerland

Vegetarian and vegan diets have gained popularity in Switzerland. The nutritional status of individuals who have adopted such diets, however, has not been investigated. The aim of this study was to assess the intake and status of selected vitamins and minerals among vegetarian and vegan adults living in Switzerland. Healthy adults [omnivores (OVs), n OV=100; vegetarians (VGs), n VG=53; vegans (VNs), n VN=53] aged 18-50years were recruited, and their weight and height were measured. Plasma concentrations of the vitamins A, C, E, B1, B2, B6, B12, folic acid, pantothenic acid, niacin, biotin and β-carotene and of the minerals Fe, Mg and Zn and urinary iodine concentration were determined. Dietary intake was assessed using a three-day weighed food record, and questionnaires were issued in order to assess the physical activity and lifestyle of the subjects. Omnivores had the lowest intake of Mg, vitamin C, vitamin E, niacin and folic acid. Vegans reported low intakes of Ca and a marginal consumption of the vitamins D and B12. The highest prevalence for vitamin and mineral deficiencies in each group was as follows: in the omnivorous group, for folic acid (58%); in the vegetarian group, for vitamin B6 and niacin (58 and 34%, respectively); and in the vegan group, for Zn (47%). Despite negligible dietary vitamin B12 intake in the vegan group, deficiency of this particular vitamin was low in all groups thanks to widespread use of supplements. Prevalence of Fe deficiency was comparable across all diet groups. Despite substantial differences in intake and deficiency between groups, our results indicate that by consuming a well-balanced diet including supplements or fortified products, all three types of diet can potentially fulfill requirements for vitamin and mineral consumption.

Breastfeeding Intentions and Practice among Vegetarians in the United States - A Pilot Study

Objectives: This study assessed breastfeeding intentions and previous breastfeeding experiences of vegetarians as well as the differences in breastfeeding intentions and previous breastfeeding experiences between the different vegetarian groups in the United States. Methods: This was a cross-sectional online survey of female vegetarians. The survey link was emailed to administrators of vegetarian listservs for their membership to complete. The outcome measures assessed included breastfeeding intentions and actual breastfeeding practices. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the outcome variables and other variables of interest, and results reported as percentages and mean ± SD. Binary logistic regression was used to identify predictors of breastfeeding intentions and practice. P-value of < 0.05 was used as criterion for statistical significance. Results: Of the 265 vegetarians completing the online survey, 38.5% were vegans, 30.6% lacto-ovo vegetarians, 10.9% pesco-vegetarians, 8.3% flexitarians, 7.2% lacto-vegetarians, and 4.5% ovo-vegetarians. Overall, participants’ breastfeeding intentions, including exclusive breastfeeding, were higher than actual breastfeeding practice, irrespective of vegetarian type. There was no significant difference between breastfeeding intentions and practices by vegetarian type. Conclusion: The majority of vegetarians who participated in this study and the various sub-types intended to breastfeed, and did breastfeed. Future studies of more heterogeneous and larger sample-size are needed to accurately ascertain the breastfeeding practices of the various vegetarian groups.