bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Changes in ‘liking’ and ‘wanting’ for high fat, high sugar foods and impact on 24hr dietary intake following gastric bypass
Authors: Redpath Tamsyn , Price Ruth , Finlayson Graham , Boyd Adele , Naseer Fathimath , le Roux Carel , Livingstone Barbara
Published: June 2020

Gastric bypass surgery (GB) is a successful treatment for obesity(1). Following the procedure, patients report changes in preference away from palatable high fat (HF), high sugar (HS) foods that may contribute to weight loss(2). The aim of this work is to examine the relationship between changes in reported ‘liking’ (hedonic) and ‘wanting’(motivation) for HF, HS food and 24hr dietary intake post-GB. 15 GB patients (BMI: 41.7 ± 11.54kg/m2, 73% female) and 15 time-matched controls (BMI: 25.08 ± 4.37 kg/m2, 73% female) were recruited as part of a larger residential study and observed for 3 days at each of 3 time points; 1-month pre-surgery, 3-months post-surgery and 1 yr post-surgery. Covert, objective assessment of 24hr dietary intake was on day 2 of each visit using weighed food records. Participants had ad-libitum access to foods pre-determined by food preference questionnaires and proportionally represented by 6 macronutrient groups (HF/HS, HF/high CHO, HF/high protein, low fat/HS, low fat/high CHO, low fat/high protein). ‘Liking’ and ‘wanting’ was measured using the Leeds Food Preference Questionnaire (LFPQ)(3), a validated measure that uses visual analogue scales to determine explicit liking and wanting for food. Implicit preferences are determined using response and reaction time in a forced-choice task. GB patients significantly reduced their overall energy intake (EI) from baseline to three months (-6.9 ± 8.1MJ/d p = > 0.001) and 1 yr post-surgery (-5.3 ± 7.5MJ/d, p = 0.01) compared to controls. At 3mths post-GB, there was no significant relationship between changes in preference for HS food and changes in %EI from sugar (R2 = 0.97, F(3,26) = 0.94 p = 0.44) or from HS foods (R2 = 0.87, F(3,26) = 0.83, p = 0.49). Changes in preferences for HF food at 3mths post-surgery were not significantly related to %EI from fat (R2 = 0.16, F(3,26) = 1.66, p = 0.2) or HF food (R2 = 0.18, F(3,26) = 0.16, p = 0.93). These associations remained at 1 yr post-surgery. In conclusion, previous observations based on self-reported food intake have found changes in preference for HF, HS food that may contribute to weight loss in GB. In contrast, our results show no significant relationship between changes in preference and changes in dietary intake post-surgery. Further research using direct, objective measures of dietary intake is needed to elucidate further changes in dietary intake post-GB.
Gamma-linolenic and pinolenic acids exert anti-inflammatory effects in cultured human endothelial cells through their elongation products
Authors: Baker Ella , Miles Elizabeth , Calder Philip
Published: June 2020

It is recommended that humans consume fatty fish twice a week to increase dietary intake of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosapentaenoic acid (DHA) to achieve long-term health benefits. However current stocks of fish are likely insufficient to meet the needs of humans. Plant-derived polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) gamma-linolenic acid (GLA) and pinolenic acid (PIN) may provide sustainable land-based sources of bioactive fatty acids.

Anti-inflammatory effects of GLA and PIN were compared to EPA and DHA in cultured EA.hy926 cells. Cells were treated with PUFAs (10, 25 and 50 μM) for 48 hours prior to stimulation with tumour necrosis factor for 24 hours. Incorporation of PUFA was measured by gas chromatography; inflammatory responses were measured by ELISA and flow cytometry.

All fatty acids were incorporated into EA.hy926 cells, after 48 hours, in a dose dependent manner (10 and 50 μM). Pre-treatment with GLA and PIN (50 μM) resulted in significant increases in their elongation products, dihomo-γ-linolenic acid (DGLA) (p < 0.0001) from GLA and eicosatrienoic (ETrA) (p < 0.0001) from PIN.

Pre-treatment with GLA, PIN, EPA or DHA (50 μM) had differential effects depending on fatty acid and cytokine examined. Pre-treatment of EA.hy926 cells with both GLA and PIN resulted in a lower concentration of soluble ICAM-1 (p < 0.01); however EPA and DHA showed greater reduction (p < 0.0001). MCP-1 production was significantly lower after treatment with PIN (p < 0.05), again to a lesser extent than EPA and DHA (p < 0.0001). Pre-treatment with EPA and DHA (50 μM) resulted in lower cell surface expression of ICAM-1 (p < 0.001, p < 0.0001), an effect not observed with GLA or PIN.

Anti-inflammatory effects of GLA and PIN were possibly due to their elongation products, and therefore silencing of elongase 5 (ELOVL5) was explored. ELOVL5 siRNA significantly inhibited the production of DGLA and ETrA in EA.hy926 cells pre-treated with GLA and PIN (50 μM). Furthermore significant decreases in sICAM-1 and MCP-1 were not seen after pre-treatment with GLA or PIN in ELOVL5 siRNA silenced EA.hy926 cells.

Plant PUFAs (GLA and PIN) demonstrate anti-inflammatory effects in this model using endothelial cells, but are less potent than EPA or DHA. Anti-inflammatory effects of GLA and PIN may be due to their elongation metabolites; DGLA and ETrA.
Molecular markers of dietary essential amino acid-deficiency
Authors: Moro Joanna , Khodorova Nadezda , Chaumontet Catherine , Even Patrick , Blais Anne , Pilard Serge , Rutledge Douglas , Bouveresse Delphine , Piedcoq Julien , Delhaye Nicolas , Gaudichon Claire , Tomé Daniel , Azzout-Marniche Dalila
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

The quality of dietary protein sources became a particularly sensitive issue in the current debates on a rebalancing between animal and vegetable food sources.

The ability of a protein to meet the nutritional requirements of essential amino acid (EAA) is the basis for assessing the quality of protein.

The objective of this study was to characterize the impact of lysine- and threonine-deficient gluten-based diets on the metabolism of growing rats and to identify molecular markers of these diets.

Materials and Methods:

Growing rats were fed for 3 weeks with a threonine-supplemented and 70% lysine-deficient gluten diet; a lysine-supplemented and 47% threonine-deficient gluten diet; a gluten diet supplemented in lysine and threonine to meet all the AA requirements, and a control diet with milk protein to meet all the AA requirements.

Body weight and food intake were measured daily. At the end of the experiment, tissues and biological fluids were removed. The body composition was analyzed, gene expression measurements involved in protein and lipid metabolism were performed and the urinary metabolome was analyzed by LC-MS. Statistical analysis was done by variance analysis and metabolome analysis by discriminant analysis of independent components.

Results:

This EAA deficiency does not modify the food intake. Lysine deficiency induces a decrease in body weight gain, and lean body mass, associated with an increased in proteolysis and a decreased in proteosynthesis, a decreased in bone mineral density, and no effect on lipid metabolism.

Threonine deficiency induces a decrease in body weight gain, and liver and skin weight, without changes in protein metabolism, bone mineral density, and lipid metabolism. After approval of the deficiency model, the metabolomic analysis performed on urine samples revealed the presence of specific discriminating molecules of the diets and types of proteins.

Discussion:

EAA deficiency has an impact on the growth, and bone and protein metabolism of growing rats. These deficiency states have resulted in different metabolome profiles that could lead to the identification of specific molecular markers of protein sources and related to EAA deficiencies.
Association between triglyceride glucose-body mass index and risk factors linked to non-alcoholic liver disease in subjects with metabolic syndrome
Authors: Bullón-Vela Vanessa , Abete Itziar , Angeles Zulet M. , Alfredo Martínez J.
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a chronic liver condition, whose prevalence increases in parallel with obesity, diabetes and metabolic syndrome (MetS) rates. The aim of the study was to investigate the relationships between the triglyceride glucose-body mass index (TyG-BMI) with lifestyle, dietary variables, and metabolic risk factors linked to NAFLD in subjects diagnosed with MetS.

Materials and methods

A baseline cross-sectional study on 331 participants (aged 65.8 ± 5.1 years) recruited in Navarra was conducted. Subjects were stratified by tertiles of the TyG-BMI index. Dietetic, Mediterranean diet adherence (MedDiet-17 points) and physical activity data were assessed through validated questionnaires. Sociodemographic, lifestyle, anthropometric and biochemical parameters were also recoreded. The Cockcroft-Gault equation was performed to estimate clearance of creatinine. For comparisons between TyG-BMI tertiles and several variables, ANCOVA and chi-square test analyses were performed.

Results

Subjects in T3 of TyG-BMI index were more likely to have diabetes (50.9%). Interestingly, physical activity decreases across tertiles (p = 0.030). There were no differences between tertiles in energy intake and MedDiet adherence. However, total meat consumption is highest in T3. ANCOVA test after adjustment for potential confounders revealed that participants in T3 showed more several clinical and metabolic alterations. Moreover, ALT (p = 0.002) and GGT (p = 0.047) levels increased and mean corpuscular volume decreased across tertiles of the TyG-BMI index.

Discussion

Obesity, MetS and insulin resistance (IR) play a key role in the development of NAFLD promoting lipotoxicity and overproduction of proinflammatory mediators. This state induces hepatic steatosis and liver injury. Some studies suggest TyG-BMI index as a surrogate marker of IR and risk to NAFLD(1). In our study, patients in the highest TyG-BMI tertile showed more adverse cardio-metabolic profile, lower physical activity and higher total meat intake. In summary, the TyG-BMI index could be a simple and reliable marker to characterize the risk of NAFLD among individuals diagnosed with MetS.
Role of circulating S100A4 protein in obesity: a case-control study in prepuberal children
Authors: Méndez-Gutierrez Andrea , Anguita-Ruiz Augusto , Ruperez Azahara I. , Leis Rosaura , Bueno Gloria , Gil-Campos Mercedes , GIL ANGEL. , Aguilera Concepción M.
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Childhood obesity is considered one of the most serious public health problems of the 21st century. Obesity-associated inflammation could be one of the mechanisms that triggers insulin resistance that could drive systemic alterations such as metabolic disorder. Recently, circulating levels of S100A4 has been associated with insulin resistance and subcutaneuous white adipose tissue inflammation independently of body mass index (BMI) in a cohort of obese adults. Nonetheless, the link between S100A4 and insulin resistance in children is still not known yet. Thus, the aim of the study was to determine if S100A4 plasma levels were associated with insulin resistance status in a cohort of prepuberal children.

Material and methods:

In this case-control multicentre study, 250 prepuberal children took part and were stratified in six groups according to sex, obesity stage and insulin resistance status. Blood samples were withdrawn in resting conditions after an overnight fasting. Anthropometric measurements and a routine biochemical analyses were performed. Homeostasis model assessment for insulin resistance index (HOMA-IR) was calculated using fasting plasma glucose and insulin values. S100A4 plasma levels were determined by ELISA CSBEL02032HU (Cusabio Biotech, Wuhan, China).

Results:

A lineal multiple regresión (α = 0.05) identified a significative association between S100A4 plasma levels and HOMA-IR in the cohort; each HOMA-IR increasing unit correlated with an increase of 0.008mg/dL in S100A4 plasma levels. (SE = 0.003 and p = 0.02). Moreover, we also observed a positive significative association between S100A4 plasma levels and glucose blood levels (p = 0.005) and BMI (p = 0.008). Inter-group comparations analyses revealed significative differences between normal-weight and insulino-resistant obese boys (p = 0.024). The same result was obtained between normal-weight and insulino-resistant obese girls (p = 0.04), finding a higher S100A4 concentration in insulino- resistant children. As expected, plasma S100A4 levels were also higher in obese children versus normal-weight children (p = 0.02).

Discussion:

These data could be clinical relevant due to the possible potential of S100A4 protein as a new circulating biomarker of resistance insulin in a cohort of prepuberal children. These results are supported by other studies in obese adults and adolescents. In conclusion, these results suggest that S100A4 is associated with obesity and insulin resistance in prepuberal children. However, more studies are needed to study the implication and mechanism of this protein in the development of insulin resistance.
A pilot study of low-carbohydrate diet intervention on overweight or obese elderly people in China
Authors: Ye Yan-Bin , HO HOI YAN. , Zhuo Shu-Yu
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Muscle-reducing obesity is the most common form of obesity in the elderly, so it is more difficult for the elderly to lose weight. The efficacy and safety of low-carbohydrate diet (LCD) for weight loss in the elderly remains controversial. This study aimed to explore the effect and safety of LCD on weight loss in overweight and obese elderly people.

Materials and Methods:

Obese or overweight elderly (> 60 years old) with a BMI greater than 24 were recruited to use a restricted LCD for 1–3 months for weight loss intervention. According to the time, participants were divided into short-time group (< 30 days), medium-time group (< 31–60 days) and long-time group (> 60 days). The enrolled subjects were given an energy-restricted LCD for weight reduction intervention (1200–1400 kcal/d, carbohydrate accounts for 15–20% of energy). The primary outcome was change in body composition included weight, BMI, fat mass, and waist circumference, and there were other secondary outcomes including blood sugar, blood lipid and uric acid.

Results and Discussion:

Thirty-two obese or overweight elderly completed a LCD for 1–3 months, mean age were 64.9 ± 4.2 years, median intervention time was 56 (range: 26,100); mean BMI was 29.62 ± 3.70kg/m2. After LCD intervention, the average body weight of the three groups decreased by 2.92 ± 0.77 kg, 5.57 ± 1.99 kg and 10.48 ± 2.63 kg; the average BMI decreased by 1.43 ± 0.34 kg/m, 2.18 ± 0.99 kg/m and 3.18 ± 1.77 kg/m; the average body fat decreased by 2.28 ± 0.43 kg, 4.07 ± 2.08 kg and 7.05 ± 2.53 kg; and the average muscle decreased by 0.68 ± 0.76 kg, 1.32 ± 0.78 kg and 2.45 ± 2.03 kg (P < 0.05). The average muscle loss was less than 20% of the total weight loss. Covariance analysis adjusted by sex and age showed that the percentage changes of body weight, BMI, body fat and waist circumference were significant different among the three groups (p < 0.05), which had linear trends with the intervention time, while the percentage of muscle and body fat decreased was not significantly different among the three groups, and did not increase with the intervening time (p > 0.05). Symptoms of patients with hypertension or sleep apnea syndrome were alleviated. There were no serious adverse events during weight loss.LCD with restricted energy is a safe and effective weight-loss intervention for overweight or obese elderly people. It can significantly reduce BMI and body fat without losing more muscle with the increase of weight loss time.
Real ileal digestibility of sunflower protein and amino acids in humans
Authors: Tessier Romain , Calvez Juliane , Khodorova Nadezda , Quinsac Alain , Kapel Romain , Tomé Daniel , Airinei Gheorghe , Benamouzig Robert , Gaudichon Claire
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Sunflower protein is not used in human nutrition despite a relatively good amino acid composition. However, the bioavailability of sunflower isolate has never been measured in Humans. The goal of this work was to determine ileal digestibility of protein and amino acids from a sunflower isolate in healthy volunteers and to challenge newly developed dual isotope method.

Materials and methods:

Eight healthy volunteers were equipped with a naso-ileal tube. They received during four hours twelve doses of biscuits containing, in total, 25 g of 15N sunflower protein isolate together with 400 mg of a mixture of free 13C amino acids incorporated in chocolates. Polyethylene glycol was perfused as non-absorbable marker and ileal contents were collected during 8 hours after ingestion of the first meal. Real ileal digestibility was measured by assessing nitrogen and carbon content as well as 15N and 13C enrichments by EA-IRMS. Amino acid digestibility was determined by measuring 15N and 13C enrichments by GC-C-IRMS and quantity of amino acids by UPLC. Blood was collected for 8 h to determine 15N and 13C enrichments by GC-C-IRMS.

Results:

The ileal nitrogen flow was 2.7 ± 0.5 mL/min (mean ± SD). In average, 53.1 ± 12.0 mmol of exogenous nitrogen was recovered during the eight hours of experiment, resulting in an ileal digestibility of sunflower isolate was 85.6 ± 2.6 % of nitrogen ingested. 13C amino acids were also recovered at the ileal level. The mixture of free 13C revealed an ileal digestibility of 94.9 ± 0.9 %. Ileal indispensable amino acids digestibility and DIAAS are in progress.

Discussion:

Ileal digestibility of sunflower isolate incorporated in toasted biscuits was lower than the value found or a raw isolate in a rat model (94.5%). The study revealed that 5 % of free amino acids were not absorbed in the ileum. Amino acid digestibility will complete the study to evaluate the DIAAS of sunflower isolate and to compare values obtained with the standard method and with the dual isotope method.
Decreased hippocampal efficiency in obese rats is expressed by impaired cognition, neurogenesis and proteomic changes
Authors: Liśkiewicz Arkadiusz , Marczak Łukasz , Przybyła Marta , Sługocka Anna , Liśkiewicz Daniela , Nowacka-Chmielewska Marta , Student Sebastian , Bogus Katarzyna , Małecki Andrzej , Lewin-Kowalik Joanna
Published: June 2020

Obesity associates with plethora of dysfunctions including changes in the brain structures, like hippocampus which is particularly susceptible to metabolic or inflammatory alterations. The is a need to expand knowledge about the obesity related brain changes in order to enable development of new therapeutic interventions, that would support not only weight loss but also could help to restore the after-effects of obesity in the brain. In the present report we evaluated the hippocampal efficiency of obese rats. In order to induce obesity 4 weeks old male rats were fed with a chow that mimics human western diet for 12 weeks (model of diet induced obesity). Then the cognitive functions (water maze), neurogenesis (BrdU detection) and global proteomic changes (MS/MS analysis) were analyzed in separate cohorts of animals. Obese rats had worsen cognitive flexibility than normal rats, but the spatial learning and long term memory were unaffected. The number of BrdU/NeuN positive cells was lowered in obese animals suggesting decreased hippocampal neurogenesis. The analysis of proteins revealed that about 120 proteins significantly differed between hippocampi of obese and normal rats. Neuronal calcium sensor 1 (NCS-1) which participates in mechanisms involving synaptic plasticity and acquisition of spatial memory was decreased in obese rats. Neuromodulin and vinculin, required for synaptic plasticity also decreased in these animals. Impaired neurogenesis was associated with decreased level of: receptor-type tyrosine-protein phosphatase zeta and cytoplasmic dynein 1 light intermediate chain 2, which play crucial roles in controlling axonal growth and neuronal migration. Altogether the data show that proteomic changes related to obesity associate with impaired hippocampal functioning. The same set of experiments was performed on the additional cohort of obese animals subsequent to weight loss to examine if the observed brain changes persist if obesity is reversed. This research is supported by Nutricia Foundation, grant no. RG 1/2017.
Age period cohort analysis in cancers associated with overweight and obesity in Ireland
Authors: O'Neill Colette , Donnelly Conan
Published: June 2020

The Central Statistics Office (CSO) in Ireland report that 62% of adults were overweight or obese in 2017(1). In 2019, the latest data from the national longitudinal study “Growing Up in Ireland” showed that 15% of five-year olds were overweight and 5% were obese(2). According to WHO projections, Ireland may have the highest prevalence of overweight and obesity in Europe by 2030(3). The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) state there is sufficient evidence for a cancer preventative effect of the absence of excess body fatness for 13 different cancer sites(4). Recent USA based research showed that the risk of developing an obesity-related cancer seems to be increasing in a stepwise manner in successively younger birth cohorts(5), therefore we aimed to investigate trends in the age of obesity related cancer diagnosis.

National Cancer Registry Ireland (NCRI) data was obtained for 25 to 84 year olds between 1997 and 2016 for several cancer types and 5-year intervals were constructed to categorise age (25–29, 30–34 etc.) and year of diagnosis (1997–2001, 2002–2006 etc.). An age-period-cohort model was fitted to each cancer type, resulting in estimated temporal trends in incidence (expressed as annual percent change (APC) per year) and significance of the trend across age groups was tested using a Wald test(5).

Analysis of NCRI data reflect significantly increasing incidence of colorectal cancer with decreasing age in Ireland (n = 40703, p = 0.00). Despite the limitation of low numbers for several cancer sites in younger age groups, similar trends were observed for a number of cancer types including thyroid and cervical cancer (p < 0.05). Although other factors (such as early detection) may contribute to these observations, addressing the large increase in incidence of obesity and colorectal cancer among young adults is essential. Research to identify exposure to modifiable risk factors, including nutrition and physical activity, throughout life in Ireland is necessary to examine potential determinants of such trends.
Is Histidine promising in alleviating the risk of Metabolic disorder?
Authors: Okekunle Akinkunmi Paul , Adeboye Temitope Elizabeth , Feng Rennan
Published: June 2020

Introduction

In recent times, evidence from published reports; randomized clinical trial (RCT), human case-controls, metabolomics, animal and cell studies is gaining rapt significance on the ameliorative potential of histidine (His) in obesity/insulin resistance (IR)/ inflammation outcomes. This study aimed at systematically mining evidence from previously published studies on the vitality of His on metabolic disorder outcomes.

Methods

Using the MOOSE guidelines we searched PubMed and Cochrane library using the search words “histidine” and “obesity” or “diabetes” or “metabolic syndrome” and included articles on His intake/administration and obesity/diabetes/metabolic disorders involving human and/or animal experimentation.

Results

We found low circulating His profile has been associated with metabolic disorders independent of ethnicity [1–4]. Similarly, two separate animal trials [5–6] found His to be significantly lower in diabetic Balb/cA mice and lean Zucker rat. Also, the endogenous absence of His disrupts mitochondrial membrane integrity thereby impairing energy production [7]. In addition, epidemiological report revealed higher dietary His was associated with lower overweight and obesity risk [8]. Though epidemiological reports from the diverse population to assert this observation are insufficient, reports from animal models [9–10] revealed similar conclusions. Also, some reports [11–12] have demonstrated the dose-dependent inhibitory effect of His on some inflammatory markers by assuaging the palmitic acid induced pAkt/Akt expression [12]. Also, His inhibits the up-production of free radicals to impede the extracellular signal-regulated kinase in neurons [13].

Conclusion

These evidences are novel but primarily limited to mostly obesity. In our opinion, future multi-ethnic longitudinal cohort and trials should consider exploring effects of His on non-fatty alcoholic liver diseases and cardiovascular complications. His might as well be beneficial potentially offering significant hope and non-invasive alternatives in the management of metabolic disorders.

Note:Complete citations available inMEDLINE;

[1] PMID: 20834187 [2] PMID: 22266733 [3] PMID: 21996294 [4] PMID: 23697717 [5] PMID:15878720 [6] PMID:15389298 [7] PMID: 4621606 [8] PMID: 27409634 [9] PMID: 17372311 [10] PMID: 15561489 [11] PMID: 16107255 [12] PMID: 23361591 [13] PMID: 22101981
Consumption of maize food group and its contribution on the diet of rural women in México
Authors: Benítez-Arciniega Alejandra Donaji , Vizcarra-Bordi Ivonne , Ochoa-Rivera Teresa , del Carmen Guzmán-Márquez María , Morales-González Lizbeth , Hernández-Ramírez Jaqueline
Published: June 2020

Native maize is the main cereal in the diet in rural communities in México, especially in those with a traditional maize-based food-pattern. Although maize has a high nutritional value, its consumption in rural communities has declined in recent decades. Traditional food replacement by modern and processed foods seems to adversely affect the composition of the diet. The aims of this study were: to evaluate the consumption of maize, its influence on nutrient intake in Matlatzincas women, and to analyze the association between the intake of maize food products with specific nutrients within the context of the most current dietary pattern in this indigenous group from central México. In this longitudinal study, we assessed diet over a one-year period, using eight 24-h dietary recalls and a food frequency questionnaire in a rural representative sample of 92 indigenous women aged 19 to 90 years. We derived dietary patterns using principal component analysis based on the intake of ten predefined food groups according to the Mexican equivalents food system. A specific food group based on maize products (maize-food-group) such as tortilla, sopes, pozole, atole, pinole, tacos, etc., was created to identify separately maize consumption in the habitual diet. The percentage of daily energy intake attributed to maize-food-group as well as the intake of macro and micronutrients were estimated. Based on the nutrimental composition of each food group, we analyzed habitual intakes of energy (kcal/d), carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, fiber, vitamins A, D, C and B12 (mg/d), and micronutrients: phosphorus, calcium, iron and zinc (mg/d). Analysis of variance and Pearsońs correlation test were used to evaluate the association between the tertiles of the consumption of maize-food-group and nutrient intake. Additionally, a diet score was calculated to assess diet quality according to maize-food-group consumption. All dietary data were energy-adjusted for the analysis. The consumption of maize-based-foods corresponded to 23.0% of the total caloric intake. Consumption of maize was higher among older women. Consumption of maize-food-group was positively correlated with the ingest of proteins, lipids, dietary fiber, calcium, phosphorus, iron, B12 vitamin, D vitamin and energy (p < 0.05). Better diet quality was associated with a high consumption of maize-food-group. We conclude that the high consumption of maize food products and its positive correlation with the intake of recommended nutrients for healthy diet in adult women, needs interventions in public health to promote a better diet-quality aimed to increase the intake of maize-based food group.
Development of a dedicated repertoire and food frequency questionnaire for estimating dietary fiber intake taking into account prebiotic (oligo)saccharides
Authors: Neyrinck Audrey M. , Nazare Julie-Anne , Sothier Monique , Vandenberghe Laurie , Amadieu Camille , Rodriguez Julie , Alligier Maud , Laville Martine , Delzenne Nathalie M.
Published: June 2020

Rationale

The scientific rationale for the recommendation in dietary fiber (DF) intake comes from the recognition of their health benefits. European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) recommend 25 g/d, based on the amount needed for intestinal laxation. Gut microbiota related health benefits are not yet included in the current dietary recommendations. Appropriate (and consensual) quantitative and qualitative analysis of DF are missing in food composition tables. One of the aim of the FiberTAG(1) project was to develop a dedicated database and a food frequency questionnaire (FFQ) allowing DF intake estimation including prebiotic (oligo)saccharides.

Methods

A repertoire of DF detailing total, soluble and insoluble DF in food products consumed in Europe has been established based on the Souci-Fachmann-Kraut database, completed for soluble versus insoluble DF () and for prebiotic (oligo)saccharide levels using published data. The FiberTAG FFQ was submitted to healthy volunteers (7 men, 8 women; mean age: 21 yrs; mean BMI: 22kg/m2) and DF intakes were calculated using the new FiberTAG repertoire.

Results

The FiberTAG repertoire detailed DF in 400 food items allocated into 4 categories (fruits, vegetables, cereal products and others) and 15 subcategories. The fiberTAG FFQ consists in 280 items regrouped in 4 high DF-containing food groups (vegetables including legumes, fruits including nuts and seed, cereal products and others) using frequency scale (6 categories), photographs for portion size and taking into account the seasonal occurrence for some vegetables or fruits. Data obtained from FiberTAG FFQ indicate a total DF intake of 36.44 g/d. This reveals a higher DF intake compared to previously reported intake for adults in Europe ranging from 16 to 24 g/d based on 24 h-recall or 3–7 days records(2). This difference might be explained by a more adequate inclusion of fruits and vegetables intake in FFQ than with other methods, as previously reported(3). Our data also showed that fructan, inulin and fructo-oligosaccharides intakes were 4.18, 2.95 and 1.00 g/day, respectively whereas galacto-oligosaccharides intake was 0.28 g/d.

Conclusion

The new FiberTAG DF repertoire and FFQ are tools to evaluate the total amount of DF including prebiotic (oligo)saccharides ingested by healthy volunteers. The FiberTAG project generates scientific knowledge that helps to take into account microbiota-nutrient interactions to establish DF intake recommendations as part of healthy lifestyles.
Determining the balance between nutrition and sustainability of 173 food products using stepwise optimisation
Authors: Broekema Roline , Blonk Hans
Published: June 2020

Introduction

The balance between nutrition and environmental impact is key for determining whether a product is future-proof. This balance refers to the Sustainability Nutrition Balance (SNB). A product that provides nutrients which improve the quality of the current diet with a low sustainability impact has a better SNB-score than a product that contains nutrients that we tend to consume in excess (like salt or saturated fat) and/ or with a high sustainability impact. For 173 food products, we calculated the SNB-score. These scores are valuable to guide product development in the direction of future healthy and sustainable diets.

Materials and methods

Based on the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) Food Consumption Database 173 products were selected, making up a European average diet. EFSA Food Composition Database was used to gather the nutritional properties of the products, like energy, dietary fibre, vitamin D, magnesium. About 60 nutritional properties were considered. The environmental impact of the products was calculated using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) method. EFSA's Dietary Reference Values for Nutrients and Tolerable Upper Intake Values for Vitamins and Minerals were consulted to determine the nutritional constraints for a healthy diet.

To analyse the SNB-score the amount of a product in the diet is varied in steps. At every step the diet is optimised for nutritional constraints, using quadratic programming. This allows identification of trends in terms of the environmental impact of the diet on indicators like climate change and land use. An increase of impact with an increase in amount of product leads to a higher SNB-score. This indicates that the group of products which is nutritionally equivalent to the product of focus is a more sustainable alternative. The lower the SNB-score, the more future-proof a product is in terms of sustainability and nutrition.

Results and discussion

This analysis has led to a palette of SNB-scores for the 173 products in the European average diet. Meat tends to have a higher SNB-score than dairy and whole grain products can have a negative SNB-score. This means the environmental impact of the product decreases when whole grains are consumed in increasing amounts. The palette of SNB-scores serves as a benchmark for product development. To create more future-proof products the SNB-scores can be improved by changing the nutritional or environmental profile by altering recipes or production processes.
Reformulation and priorities for reducing energy density; a survey on fat content in cakes and biscuits sold in British supermarkets
Authors: Alessandrini Roberta , He Fengjun , Hashem Kawther M. , Tan Monique , MacGregor Graham A
Published: June 2020

Cakes and biscuits are widely consumed foods and are important contributors of energy, total and saturated fat and sugar in British diets. So far, the UK government has prompted the food industry to reduce energy density in cakes and biscuits mainly through sugar reformulation. However, a government led evaluation has shown that reducing only sugar has lowered energy density minimally. To assess whether total and saturated fat reformulation could be an additional and more effective mechanism for reducing product energy density we conducted a cross-sectional survey of pre-packed cakes and biscuits available in nine UK supermarkets. We collected nutrition information from product packaging. In cakes (n = 381), the mean total fat content was 17.9 ± 5.2g/100 g (39% of the overall energy); range (1.4–35.6g/100g). The average saturated fat content in cakes was 5.9 ± 3.4g/100 g (13% of the overall energy); range (0.3–20g/100g). The average sugar content in cakes was 36.6 ± 7.6 (34% of the overall energy); range (11.3–62.0g/100g). In biscuits (n = 481) the mean total fat content was 21.8g ± 6.3g/100 g (40% of the overall energy); range (0.7–38.9g/100g) and the average saturated fat content was 11.4 ± 4.9 g/100 g (23% of the overall energy); range (0.3–22.3g/100g). The average sugar content in biscuits was 30.0 ± 9.2 (23% of the overall energy); range (12.0–74.0g/100g). In both cakes and biscuits total and saturated fat, but not sugar content, was positively correlated with energy density. According to the nutrient profiling system used by the government, 57% of cakes and 75% of biscuits would receive a red (high) label for total fats; 54% of cakes and 88% of biscuits and would receive a red label for saturated fat.

Our results show that cakes and biscuits sold in UK supermarkets are high in total and saturated fat, and that fat content contributes substantially to product energy density. We observed a large variation in total and saturated fat content within each product category. This finding indicates that reformulation to reduce total and saturated fat and energy density is possible as some manufacturers are already producing cake and biscuits with a more healthful nutrient composition and lower energy density. Fat reformulation in cakes and biscuits and similar products would effectively reduce energy density and calorie intake and thereby prevent obesity. We recommend that fat reformulation should be implemented simultaneously with sugar reformulation and to be focussed where possible on saturated fat, as this will have the additional and independent beneficial effect of lowering LDL cholesterol.
Nutritional value of cooked and sous-vide beef: mineral compounds content
Authors: Modzelewska-Kapituła Monika , Pietrzak-Fiećko Renata , Tkacz Katarzyna , Więk Adam , Bogdanowicz Julia
Published: June 2020

Meat, including beef, is a rich source of minerals in the human diet(1,2). However, different thermal treatments might affect minerals concentration in beef and thus its nutritional value. The aim of the study was to determine the degree of coverage of the demand for minerals by consuming 100 g of steam-cooked and sous-vide beef. Material for the study were semimembranosus muscles (n = 12), cut into 2.5 cm thick steaks, which were subjected to steam cooking to obtain 75°C in geometric centre and sous-vide treatment at 60°C for 4 h. The content of minerals was analyzed by flame atomic absorption spectrometry method (flame:acetylene-air). Percentages of the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of Ca, Cu, Fe, Mg, Zn and the adequate intake (AI) of Mn, K, Na in 100 g of thermal processed beef were determined for adults (males and females, aged 19–50 years) and for children (aged 4–8 years) based on the Institute of Medicine, National Academies, recommendations. The concentration of Ca, Fe, Zn, and Cu was higher in steam-cooked beef, whereas Na and K in sous-vide beef. Thermal processes beef was very good source of Zn and Fe; 100 g of steam-cooked beef satisfied 119% of Zn RDA for children, 54% for males and 74% for females, whereas sous-vide beef 101%, 46% and 63%, respectively. A portion of steam-cooked beef provided 32% of Fe RDA for children, 40% for males and 18% for females, whereas sous-vide beef 21%, 26% and 11%, respectively. The steam-cooked meat was also relatively good source of Cu and provided from 12% RDA (males and females) to 25% (children), whereas sous-vide beef from 10% to 20%, respectively. Thermal processed beef was moderate source for Mg (from 4 to 13% of RDA) and K (from 7 to 9% of AI) and poor source of Ca (up to 0.5% of RDA), Mn (up to 0.3% of AI) and Na (up to 3% of AI). Daily requirements for minerals were satisfied to higher degree by a 100 g portion of steam-cooked beef, which was caused by lower cooking loss than sous-vide samples.
Curcumin improves hippocampal function in healthy older adults: a three month randomised controlled trial
Authors: Scholey Andrew , Cox Katherine , Pipingas Andrew , White David
Published: June 2020

The flavonoid curcumin is believed to be responsible for the purported health benefits of turmeric. Like other flavonoids, curcumin affects several systemic and central processes involved in neurocognitive aging. We have previously shown that one month administration of a highly bioavailable curcumin extract (Longvida™) improved working memory and reduced fatigue and workload stress in an older, cognitively intact cohort(1). This study focused on the effects of the same extract, focusing on memory tasks subserved by the hippocampus, one of two areas of the adult brain believed to be capable of adult neurogenesis.

Eighty healthy older participants (aged 50–80 years, mean = 68.1, ± SD 6.34) took part in this double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-groups trial. Volunteers were randomised to receive administration of 400 mg daily Longvida™ (containing 80 mg curcumin) or a matching placebo. Assessment took place at baseline and 4 and 12 weeks thereafter. Outcomes included two tasks evaluating memory processes relevant to hippocampal function. These were i) a human analogue of the widely used rodent Morris Water Maze - the virtual Morris Water Maze (vMWM) and ii) a Mnemonic Similarity task evaluating pattern separation. Measures of mood, cardiovascular function and other blood biomarkers were collected, and a subset of the cohort underwent neuroimaging using functional magnetic resonance imaging.

Compared with placebo, there were a number of improvements in the curcumin group. The curcumin group had significantly better performance at 12 weeks on the virtual Morris Water Maze (p = .019). Curcumin was also associated with better performance on a pattern separation task (p = .025). Curcumin was also associated with number of significantly benefits to mood, including, from the Profile of Mood States (POMS), including, at 28 days only, total mood disturbance (p = .006), tension-anxiety (p = .028), confusion-bewilderment (p = .019), anger-Hostility (p = .009). There were also significant benefits to the POMS fatigue scores at both assessments (p ≤ .011). There were no group differences in biomarker levels.

These results confirm that Longvida™ curcumin improves aspects of mood and working memory in a healthy older cohort. The pattern of results is consistent with improvements in hippocampal function and may hold promise for alleviating cognitive decline in populations at risk of pathological cognitive decline.
Dietary and lifestyle patterns in UK postpartum women
Authors: Myrissa Kyriaki , Stevens Rebecca , Kelaiditi Eirini
Published: June 2020

Introduction

Healthy dietary and physical activity behaviours during and after pregnancy are important for optimal maternal health. Unhealthy lifestyle habits promote excessive weight gain during pregnancy or weight retention in the postpartum period, which increase the risk of obesity. The aim of this study was to explore dietary habits and associated lifestyle patterns and barriers to healthy eating in UK postpartum women.

Methods

Cross-sectional study of 228 females (56.1% were 25–34 years old) with a mean postpartum period of 5.73 ± 3.31 months. Participants completed an online survey exploring eating habits, weight status, sleep duration, breastfeeding, nutrition knowledge, physical activity, provision of advice and barriers to healthy eating during the postpartum period. A sub-sample of 34 women (50% of the sample were between 35–44 years old) completed an optional online dietary intake assessment using a multiple-pass 24-hour recall.

Results

In total, 73.7% were not meeting the five a day fruit and vegetable UK recommendations, 40.4% of women were skipping breakfast and 44.7% were skipping lunch every day. Average weight gain from pre-pregnancy to postpartum was 5.56 ± 4.61 kg (range = 0.8 to 25 kg) with only 2.2% of women meeting current UK physical activity guidelines during the postpartum period. Consumption of high calorie snacks and meal skipping were significantly higher during the postpartum period compared to pre-pregnancy (p < 0.01). Women who were breastfeeding had significantly lower body mass index than those who were bottle feeding (p < 0.05). Fatigue, lack of time and feeling stressed had the most impact on women's ability to eat healthily. Barriers to consume a balanced healthy diet were significantly greater for women with low combined household income and those having three or more children (p < 0.05). Poor nutrition knowledge was significantly associated with increased meal skipping (p < 0.05). The sub-sample dietary analysis (N = 34) showed that women were not meeting the UK Dietary Reference Values for energy, fibre, iron, and vitamin D intakes. Those breastfeeding were not meeting requirements for calcium and zinc.

Discussion

To our knowledge, this is the first study to explore dietary habits and lifestyle patterns in UK postpartum women. Health care professionals should support women to adopt lifestyle behaviours following childbirth, with a greater focus on those likely to be experiencing more barriers. Advice given to women during the postpartum period needs to be tailored to potential differences in sociodemographic characteristics, pre-pregnancy health status and baseline nutrition knowledge and target multiple dietary and lifestyle behaviours.
Socioeconomic influences on breastfeeding and weaning practices in a Mediterranean setting
Authors: Parnis Justine , Calleja Neville , Jones Petra
Published: June 2020

The World Health Organisation (2016) recommends exclusive breastfeeding up to 6 months of age and the introduction of complementary foods at around 6 months. International literature suggests that although knowledge of the guidelines is high, only a minority of parents wait until 6 months to wean and sub-optimal weaning practices are common. The aim of this study was to assess breastfeeding and weaning practices and to evaluate the effect of socio-economic determinants on such behaviours in a Mediterranean setting.

A cross-sectional study design was used. One-time short interviews with 250 consenting mothers having 8 month old infants were conducted using a structured questionnaire. Mothers attending all the well baby clinics in the primary health care centres of the Maltese Islands for a period of two months were included in the study. The questionnaire included socio-economic and demographic data, details on the initiation and duration of breastfeeding, weaning practices and a short assessment of the infant's usual diet at 8 months.

Mothers between 25–34 years old (26%) and mothers with a high level of education (25%) were more likely to breastfeed only during the first 8 months of life without using any other type of milk, compared to younger (6.5%) or older (21%) mothers, and to mothers with a lower level of education (16%). The level of education was also positively associated with the continuation of breastfeeding, with the mean duration of breastfeeding for higher educated mothers being 4 months compared to 2.6 months in less educated mothers. Mothers with a lower level of education and mothers who are house-wives are more likely to give their infants only ready-made foods however associations were in this case borderline significant. On the other hand, appropriateness of weaning age was not associated with any socio-economic factors.

The length of breastfeeding and the introduction of complementary foods varied widely between mothers. Compliance with infant feeding guidelines was poor. The mother's age, level of education and employment status all have an impact on breastfeeding and weaning practices. The provision of professional advice and a supportive environment for mothers, together with interventions for increasing awareness may promote maternal adherence to WHO guideline.