bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intestinal microbiota analysis supports inclusion of gluten-free oats to diet of subjects with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity
Authors: Nylund Lotta , Hakkola Salla , Lahti Leo , Salminen Seppo , Yang Baoru , Kalliomäki Marko , Linderborg Kaisa
Published: June 2020

Gluten-related disorders form the umbrella term for all conditions related to gluten ingestion, such as celiac disease (CeD) and non-celiac gluten sensitivity (NCGS). A life-long exclusion of gluten from diet is currently the only effective treatment in remitting the symptoms of these diseases. However, a life-long, strict GFD is challenging to maintain due to social and economic burdens. In addition, it may lead to restricted and nutritionally suboptimal diet. Thus, the possibility of using nutritious and fiber-rich oats would diversify the GFD, improving general palatability, sensory properties such as texture and fiber-content of the diet. Pure oats are being grown and produced following strict agricultural practices to minimize any contamination with other cereals. Indeed, consumption of pure, uncontaminated oats would allow a wider selection of foods for individuals with gluten related disorders. However, the inclusion of oats into GFD is not globally applied yet. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of daily consumption of oat products on intestinal microbiota composition and activity in subjects with gluten-related disorders. Subjects with CeD (n = 19) or NCGS (n = 10) and healthy volunteers (n = 14) were recruited to the study. Study subjects completed food diaries for four days preceding fecal sample collection. Intestinal microbiota composition was characterized using 16S MiSeq sequencing. The total energy intake was comparable between the study groups. However, NCGS subjects consumed more energy (E %) from protein and less from carbohydrates when compared to healthy controls (p = 0.025 and p = 0.045, respectively). Dietary fiber intake was relatively high in all subjects and no differences were observed between the study groups (p = 0.79). Total microbiota profiles were comparable between CeD, NCGS and healthy controls. In addition, no differences were observed in microbiota richness or diversity between the study groups. Phylum-level microbial abundances exhibited high inter-individual variation, but did not differ between the study groups. To conclude, microbiota markers demonstrated that oat consumption was safe and beneficial for subjects with CeD or NCGS. Oat consumption was shown to enrich available gluten-free diets and to increase dietary fiber intake to the recommended levels.
Nitrite intake in Polish population
Authors: Stos Katarzyna , Jarosz Miroslaw , Pinkas Jaroslaw , Oltarzewski Maciej , Wojda Barbara , Dmitruk Marta
Published: June 2020

Nitrites are commonly used as food additives E 249 and E 250 in the production of meat products, mainly to protect them from the contamination of bacteria Clostridium botulinum. The nitrite intake should be limited because of their potential carcinogenicity in humans (IARC). The EFSA experts derived an ADI of 0.1 mg sodium nitrite/kg bw per day, corresponding to 0.07 mg nitrite ion/kg bw per day. Besides the meat products the other its sources are: cheese and fish products. The aim of this work was the assessment of nitrite intake (expressed as sodium nitrite) with the diet of Polish population.

The data on sodium nitrite intake were based on the daily consumption of food products and dishes by the representative sample of Polish population (4134 persons) aged 1–96 years studied in 2000 and the actual content of this substance in food products. These data were combined with the results of the chemical analyses made by the State Sanitary Inspection. The risk assessment was based on the sodium nitrite intake calculations of: mean (X), median (Me), percentile 95 (P95) and its comparison to ADI. The data were analysed in the respect of the total studied sample and the group ‘consumers only’. The statistical analyses with use of U-Mann-Whitney test were done.

The daily sodium nitrite intake expressed in mg/persons/day was as follow: 1.87 (X), 1.03 (Me) and 6.88 (P95) in the group of total surveyed persons. The percent of ADI was as follow: 31.8% (X), 17.4% (Me) and 111% (P95). The mean and median values did not exceed the ADI level in all studied groups. However the sodium nitrite intake at the level of P95 exceeded the ADI value in the most surveyed groups, except women. The most exposed group were children aged 1–3 (P95 = 287% ADI). The NaNO2 intake in the group ‘consumers only’ in mg/person/day was resulted as follow: 2.39 (X), 1.53 (Me) and 7.60 (P95) whereas the % of ADI was: 40.7% (X), 26.2% (Me) and 122% (P95) respectively.

The Polish population was characterized by the average intake of sodium nitrite at the safe level (below ADI). However, there were observed some intake of sodium nitrite (P95 level) which exceed ADI. A balanced and varied diet, with limited consumption of meat products (up to 0.5 kg per week) will help to diminish the risk of excessive intake of nitrites by consumers in Poland.
Food Messages Adolescents See Daily on Social Media: A Diary Study
Authors: Qutteina Yara , Hallez Lotte , Mennes Nine , De Backer Charlotte , Smits Tim
Published: June 2020

Billions are spent yearly on food marketing that influences unhealthy eating preferences and habits, and contributes to the development of obesogenic environments worldwide. Recent social media advancements have provided food marketers with platforms to readily reach out to many especially younger consumers. Adolescents seem vulnerable to food marketing as they have increased impulsive decision-making and decreased inhibitory-control as compared to adults. Yet, they are becoming independent from their parents and relying on unmonitored (social) media. Despite the presumed influence of social media marketing, little is known about the type of marketing strategies used on social media to influence adolescent eating.

Aim:

The aim of this study is to explore the food messages adolescents (12–18 years old) encounter when using social media.

Methods:

A diary study was carried out with 12–18 year-old Belgian adolescents (N = 20) who took screenshots of food images they encountered on their social media during a one-week period. Participants also completed surveys assessing social media use, image source, marketing strategy, etc. Five-hundred food images were gathered and preliminary analyzed for their content. A coding book, developed based on a literature review and a pilot, will guide two authors in coding the images. The codes will be checked for agreement and discrepancies will be resolved among the research team. Finally, the codes will be analyzed to determine food marketing strategies employed and eating social norms portrayed.

Results:

The most commonly reported social media were Instagram, Snapchat, Twitter, and Facebook. Preliminary findings showed that adolescents often encounter branded food images through peers, influencers and food brands, majority of which are paid or word-of-mouth food marketing. The images were mostly promoting non-core foods that are energy-dense and poor in nutrients, especially branded soft drinks and fried foods. An ongoing qualitative analysis of the gathered images aims to conclude with detailed frequencies and relationships between the different study measures assessed. These findings will be elaborated on during the presentation.

Discussion:

This research provides an in-depth understanding of the social media messages adolescents encounter daily and sheds light on food norms typically communicated on social media by marketers, peers, and influencers. Such findings identify prominent social media food messages that must be tested for their persuasive nature, providing insights for future research that aims to assesses the effects of social media food marketing on adolescent eating. Finally, we call for policies that address current social media marketing strategies targeting adolescents.
The use of Nutrition and Health Claims on Yoghurts on the Irish Market
Authors: O'Mahony S. , Creane R.J. , Philpott E. , O'Donavan C. B. , Lyons O.C. , Donovan C.M. , Quinn S. F. , Flynn M. A. T. , Anderson W. , Collins N. A.
Published: June 2020

The use of nutrition and health claims on food is legislated for in Commission Regulation 1924/2006 and SI No. 11 of 2014. This legislation ensures that any claim made on a food label is clear, accurate and substantiated, enabling consumers to make informed choices. A study undertaken by the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) in 2009 found that yoghurts were the food category with the highest use of nutrition and health claims on the Irish market.

In 2018, the FSAI undertook a nutrition label verification study to verify the accuracy of declared nutrition information on yoghurts. The aims of this study were to measure the use of nutrition and health claims on a sample of yoghurts available on the Irish market in 2018 and assess their compliance with Regulation 1924/2006 Nutrition and Health Claims made on Food.

Yoghurts identified in a 2016 market scan (n578) were weighted based on categorisation of manufacturer type (branded, own brand), product category (natural, flavoured and luxury) and declared nutrition content. Samples (n200) were randomly selected from these weighted groups for the 2018 nutrition label verification study. A subsample (n100) was randomly sampled and checked for presence of nutrition and health claims. Presence of nutrition and health claims was recorded in Microsoft Excel and checked for compliance with Regulation 1924/2006.

Of the yoghurts reviewed, 67% (n67) made at least one nutrition claim and 34% (n34) made at least one health claim. Of these, 29% (n29) made a nutrition and a health claim. Branded yoghurts were more likely to make nutrition and health claims than own brand yoghurts (78% (n49) vs. 48% (n18)). Of yoghurts with a health claim, 88% (n30) were branded and 12% (n4) were own brand. Of yoghurts with a nutrition claim, 1.5% (n1) made a nutrition claim which was potentially non-compliant with Regulation 1924/2006. Of yoghurts with a health claim, 74% (n23) made a health claim which was potentially non-compliant with Regulation 1924/2006. The majority of potentially non-compliant health claims were in relation to probiotic strains and ‘live cultures’.

In conclusion, yoghurts continue to be a food category which often uses nutrition and health claims. Nutrition and health claims are more frequently used by branded than own brand products. Potentially non-compliant health claims are an issue amongst this food category which will be further investigated and followed up.
Chronic vascular effects of oat phenolic acids and avenanthramides in pre- or stage 1 hypertensive adults
Authors: Soycan Gulten , Schar Manuel Y. , Corona Giulia , Kristek Angelika , Alsharif Sarah , Johnson Jodee , Shewry Peter , Spencer Jeremy Paul Edward
Published: June 2020

Wholegrain consumption is linked to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Evidence from randomized controlled trials have established that the consumption of wholegrain oats lowers blood cholesterol, via a mechanism partly mediated by β-glucan soluble fiber. However, oats contain an array of phenolic acids, including ferulic acid and also structurally related avenanthramides, which may also contribute to the cardiovascular health benefits of oat intake. We investigated whether 4 weeks, daily consumption of oat phenolics leads to improvement in markers of CVD risk men and women.In a 3 arm crossover single-blind, placebo-controlled trial, 28 volunteers consumed either: 1) oatmeal/oatcake intervention (-containing 48.9 mg of phenolic acids and 19.2 mg of avenanthramides); 2) oatbran concentrate + rice porridge/wheat cracker intervention (-containing 38.4 mg of phenolic acids and 0.5 mg of avenanthramides) or 3) rice porridge/wheat cracker intervention (containing 13.8 mg of phenolic acids). All treatments were matched in soluble fiber (4.8g) and energy (500kcal). The primary endpoint was FMD and other cardiovascular endpoints were blood pressure, LDI, LDL/HDL cholesterol, platelets and endothelial cell-derived extracellular vesicles (EVs). All measures were taken at baseline and after three, 4 week long intervention periods and two washout periods.Our data indicates an increase by 1.09 % ± 0.41 %(Mean ± SEM) in FMD response following high phenolic oat intake with a significant difference (P = 0.007) between baseline and post-intervention. Consumption of high phenolic oats also led to a significant improvement in 24-hour SBP, day time SBP and night time SBP (P < 0.01, P < 0.01 and P < 0.05) and day time and night time DBP (p < 0.05). There was also a significant decrease with total and LDL cholesterol after the consumption of moderate and high phenolic oat interventions (P < 0.05) and a small improvement in LDI (both Ach and SNP) but not significant. The number of resting endothelial EVs were also found to be increasing after the consumption of high phenolic oats.The findings of this study may provide evidence about the role of oat phenolic acids and avenanthramides in cardiovascular health and contribute to more effective public health advice about the consumption of oats and healthy cardiovascular aging.
Parental perception of physical activity among school children aged 7 years in Montenegro
Authors: Đorđević Zorica , Kujundžić Enisa , Bajić Borko
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Globalisation and modern lifestyles are contributing to different public health problems, especially in early age.

Objectives:

To present the result of family questionnaires regarding the parental perception of physical activity in children and to discuss the importance of findings compared to overweight and obesity rates in this population group.

Methodology:

In Montenegro Childhood obesity surveillance initiative (COSI) including 7 years old school children was conducted for the first time in 2016 in accordance with WHO protocol. In total 3581 children were examined and 3162 family questionnaires collected. We analyzed a part of the family questionnaires dealing with children free time in correlation with the results of anthropometric measurements.

Results:

In working days, according to the parents' claims, around 73% of children spend more than an hour playing outside, while at weekends that number is around 95%. Spending free time in front of the screen longer than 4 hours is bigger at weekends comparing to working days 14%:4%. The results of anthropometric measurement show that around 1/5 of boys and girls are overweighed and around over 1/5 of boys and 1/10 are obese.

Conclusion:

Parental perception of physical activity level among children is one of the key factors that could influence children growth and development into healthy, resilient adults. Public health approach in strengthening this perception is rising awareness of knowledge, attitudes and behavior of parents regarding the connection between physical activity, free time and overweight and obesity rates in their children.
Associations between maternal healthy lifestyle score and offspring birth outcomes and childhood obesity: results from the Lifeways Cross-Generation Cohort Study
Authors: Navarro Pilar , Mehegan John , Murrin Celine , Kelleher Cecily , Phillips Catherine
Published: June 2020

Maternal adherence to healthy lifestyle behaviours during pregnancy has been associated with reduced risk of obesity in the offspring. Our objective is to examine the association between a composite healthy lifestyle score (HLS) derived from body mass index (BMI), dietary quality, physical activity, smoking and alcohol intake, in expectant mothers and adverse offspring birth outcomes and childhood obesity. The Lifeways Cross-Generation Study comprises 1082 mother-child pairs. We defined five healthy lifestyle factors during pregnancy including: high dietary quality (top 40% of the Healthy Eating Index (HEI)-2015), moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA), healthy pre-pregnancy BMI (18.5–24.9 Kg/m2), never smoker, and no/moderate alcohol intake. A composite HLS was calculated (scored 0–5). Birthweight, length and head circumference were abstracted from hospital records. Waist circumference and BMI was determined when the child was 5 and 9 years. Logistic regression analyses were used to test HLS and individual HLS component associations with offspring birth and childhood outcomes. Offspring birthweight, length and head circumference were positively associated with the number of maternal healthy lifestyle factors (p < 0.001), whereas child BMI and incidence of overweight/obesity at age 5 and 9 were negatively associated with the maternal HLS (p < 0.05). In multivariable models, a lower maternal HLS (0–2 healthy lifestyle factors) was associated with increased risk of low birthweight (LBW) (OR:1.17, 95% CI:1.01–2.69, p = 0.043) and lower likelihood of macrosomia (OR:0.73, 95% CI:0.24–0.99, p = 0.034), relative to those with 5 healthy lifestyle factors. Examination of the individual HLS components revealed that, poor maternal dietary quality, smoking and alcohol intake were associated with higher risk of LBW (OR:1.61, 95%CI:1.01–7.85, p = 0.043, OR: 2.54, 95%CI:1.26–5.12, p = 0.025 and OR:2.30, 95%CI:1.01–5.26, p = 0.031, respectively). Likelihood of macrosomia and combined overweight/obesity at age 5 and 9 years was greater among mothers with a pre-pregnancy BMI in the obese range (OR:2.18, 95%CI:1.23–3.85, p = 0.042, OR:2.19, 95%CI:1.01–5.08, p = 0.03 and OR:3.89, 95%CI:1.00–10.59, p = 0.04, respectively). Smoking during pregnancy was also linked to greater risk of childhood overweight/obesity (OR:1.91, 95%CI:1.01–3.61, p = 0.04 at age 5 and OR:2.14, 95%CI:1.01–4.11, p = 0.03 at age 9). Our findings suggest that maternal adherence to a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy, in particular having a good quality diet, not smoking and no/low alcohol intake in combination with a healthy pre-pregnancy BMI, is associated with reduced risk of adverse offspring birth outcomes and childhood obesity. These findings highlight the potential benefits of implementing maternal based multifactorial interventions to improve offspring birth outcomes and combat childhood adiposity.
Assessment of adolescents’ diet at 14 years in the Danish National Birth Cohort: Development of questionnaire and perspectives for research
Authors: Olsen Sjurdur , Bjerregaard Anne
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

By October 2002, a little more than 100,000 women in their early pregnancies had been recruited in the Danish National Birth Cohort (DNBC), for long-term follow-up of themselves and their offspring. The overall purpose of DNBC is the establishment of a research database comprising information on exposures and other factors during pregnancy and early life that can be linked to health-related phenomena occurring throughout life. More than 90,000 live-born children are followed by questionnaires and registry linkages, and more than 500 peer-reviewed articles have so far been published from DNBC.

The latest completed assessment in the children recorded diet and physical activity at age 14. Our group was responsible for the development and implementation of the questionnaire in DNBC. We report on its development; on selected data; and on their potential utility for research.

Materials and methods:

The questionnaire was an on-line food-frequency questionnaire (FFQ) comprising 158 food items. It was a substantially modified version of the questionnaire developed for the offspring of Nurses’ Health Study 2 participants (GUTS) adapted to the Danish food culture.

Results:

Mean BMI was 19, and 9.1% of boys and 8.3% of girls were overweight (n = the first 20,814 completed questionnaire). For boys and girls, respectively, estimated mean (SD) intakes were: Energy 9.3 (3.5) and 10.4 (3.9) MJ/d; Protein 15.7 (2.4) and 15.8 (2.5) E%; Fat 32.1 (4.6) and 32.6 (4.5) E%; Carbohydrate 52.2 (5.3) and 51.5 (5.3) E%; Sugar 7.8 (4.1) and 7.1 (3.8) E%; Fruits 213 (208) and 253 (222) g/d; Vegetables 201 (142) and 240 (163) g/d; Fish 96 (108) and 94 (107) g/w; Meat 792 (415) and 694 (381) g/week; and Sugar-sweetened beverages 1.2 (1.3) and 0.8 (1.1) L/week.

Considerable variability was observed. E.g., for sugar-sweetened beverages, the highest quarter consumed more than 1.4 and the lowest less than 0.32 L/week; for fish, the corresponding figures were 120 and 30 g/week, respectively. We observed substantial gradients across sociodemographic groups.

Discussion:

Our data revealed a considerable variability in dietary intake in DNBC, with substantial sociodemographic gradients. These results point to an important and unique potential for prevention and future research. DNBC is the largest database worldwide of its kind with extensive information on dietary exposures in pregnancy (1) as well as during adolescence.
Relationship of obesity with B vitamin status: analysis of NDNS data from UK women of reproductive age
Authors: Kerr Maeve , Livingstone Barbara , Ward Mary , McAnena Liadhan , Cox Lorna , Price Ruth , Pentieva Kristina , McNulty Helene
Published: June 2020

Pre-pregnancy obesity is associated with a 2-fold increased risk of Neural Tube Defects (NTD), an effect not explained by lower dietary folate intake, or non-use of folic acid supplements (as recommended globally to women before and in early pregnancy for NTD prevention). While the exact mechanism linking NTD and obesity is poorly understood, it is possible that a compromised status or metabolism of folate and/or of the closely related micronutrients (vitamin B12, B6 and riboflavin) may be involved. To date however, this hypothesis has not been adequately explored. This study therefore aimed to investigate the relationship of obesity with folate and related B vitamin biomarkers in a representative cohort of non-pregnant UK women of reproductive age. Data were accessed from the most recent UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS; Years 7–8; 2015–16), a rolling cross-sectional survey designed to gather information from a representative sample of the UK population on nutrient intakes, food consumption and nutritional status. Data for women aged 16–45 years (non B vitamin supplement users; n 364), were extracted on: anthropometry (height, weight, body mass index [BMI] and waist circumference [WC]), dietary intakes of B vitamins and biomarkers for serum and red blood cell folate, vitamin B12 (total serum B12 and holotranscobalamin), vitamin B6 (plasma pyridoxal-5-phosphate [PLP]) and riboflavin (erythrocyte glutathione reductase activation coefficient EGRAac]). Prevalence of overweight and obesity (i.e. BMI: 25–30kg/m2 and > 30kg/m2) was 28% and 22% respectively, whilst abdominal obesity (i.e. WC > 88cm) was present in 31% of the women. Total serum B12 (r -0.215, P 0.012) and PLP (r -0.270, P 0.002) were negatively correlated with WC, with similar, albeit weaker, correlations found for BMI. Correspondingly, women with abdominal obesity compared to those without, had a lower status of total serum B12 (Median values of: 212 v 249 v pmol/L; P 0.049), B6 (31.5 v 40.5 nmol/L; P 0.002) and EGRac (1.43 v 1.36; P 0.031). No differences in B vitamin dietary intake were observed by categories of abdominal obesity. Abdominal obesity may be a risk factor for low status of both vitamins B12 and B6, independently of dietary intake. Further investigation to elucidate the potential underlying mechanism is warranted. These findings also highlight the importance of taking abdominal obesity into account, in addition to BMI, when examining possible adverse impacts of obesity on micronutrient status.
The effect of protein supplementation and its timing on energy intake and appetite in a middle-older aged adult population
Authors: Tuttiett Esme , Williams Elizabeth , Corfe Bernard , Stevenson Emma , Hill Tom
Published: June 2020

Introduction

With ageing there is a reduction in muscle mass and strength, termed sarcopenia. A further consequence of ageing is a reduction in appetite and this can result in a reduced energy intake and malnutrition. Increased dietary protein intake may reduce the risk of sarcopenia, however, protein is particularly satiating. Increasing protein intake in the older adult population, without a reduction of overall energy intake and appetite is desirable. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of protein supplementation on dietary intake and appetite. A further aim was to explore whether the time of consumption (morning vs evening) modified the impact of protein on energy intake and appetite.

Materials and methods

Twenty-four middle-older aged (50–75 years) participants were recruited to a randomised cross-over trial. In phase 1 (pre-supplementation) participants completed a 3d food diary and were asked to report hunger and appetite using visual analogue scale questionnaires. In the second and third phases, participants consumed a whey protein gel (containing 20 g protein and 376kJ of energy) for 4 days at either the evening (before bed) or in the morning (after breakfast) and completed the same tasks as phase 1. There was a 1-week wash-out period before crossing over to the alternative time point. Repeated measures ANOVA was used to analyse the data.

Results

There was no significant difference in average daily energy and macronutrient intake provided by the habitual diet in the pre-supplementation phase compared to the whey protein supplementation phases, irrespective of timing (p > 0.05). Similarly, no significant differences were observed in reported feelings of hunger and appetite (p > 0.05).

Discussion

Contrary to expectations, the addition of a 20g/day whey protein supplement did not alter subsequent energy and macronutrient intake when consumed over a 4-day period in this middle-older adult population. This may be due to the low-calorie composition of the supplement, or the timing of the intake. This research helps to inform protein delivery strategies, however different product formulations need to be explored, and studies of longer duration are required to understand the impact of prolonged supplementation on eating behaviour.
Eating behaviour, health locus of control and stages of change towards healthy eating among Portuguese undergraduate students
Authors: Are Marta , Santos Eduila , Oliveira Bruno M. P. M. , Correia Flora , Poínhos Rui
Published: June 2020

Eating behaviour refers to quantitative and qualitative features of the selection and decision on the foods to be consumed. Knowledge on determinants of eating behaviour increases the success of actions and interventions aiming to promote healthy eating habits and to prevent diseases. Several constructs facilitate the comprehension of health-related changes, among which the Locus of Control (LoC) and Stages of Change (SoC). Our aim was to study the relationships between several dimensions of eating behaviour with the health LoC and SoC towards healthy eating among Portuguese higher education students. Data from 267 higher education students (63.7% females) aged 18 to 27 years were assessed regarding health LoC (Health Locus of Control Scale; Ribeiro, 1994), SoC towards healthy eating (question and items from Kearney et al. (1999), adapted to refer specifically to the adoption of healthy eating) and eating behaviour. Emotional and external eating were measured using the Dutch Eating Behavior Questionnaire, flexible and rigid control of eating behaviour was measured with the Portuguese version of the subscales proposed by Westenhoefer et al. (1999), the Portuguese version of the Binge Eating Scale was used to assess binge eating severity, and eating self-efficacy was measured using the General Eating Self-Efficacy Scale. BMI was calculated using self-reported weight and height. No significant associations were found between BMI and health LoC. In the female subsample, i-LoC assessed through the factor “locus of control” was negatively associated with binge eating and positively with eating self-efficacy. However, we also found a negative association between eating self-efficacy and i-LoC assessed by the factor “other powerful”. Among men, none of the eating behaviour dimensions presented an association with health LoC. Regarding SoC, participants in the maintenance stage presented lower external eating and binge eating (both sexes), lower emotional eating and higher eating self-efficacy (women) and dietary restraint (higher rigid control among men but higher flexible control among women), when compared to those in the pre-contemplation/ contemplation stages. Our results suggest that SoC and LoC may be useful to achieve deeper knowledge on eating behaviour. Their assessement may also help designing early and sex-directed (namely regarding the different types of dietary restraint) programs and interventions focusing eating behaviour.
Determinants of weight gain in patients with depressive or bipolar disorders
Authors: Quere Clémence , Illner Anne-Kathrin , Damelincourt Jean-Luc , Younes Hassan
Published: June 2020

Introduction:

Mental health disorders constitute a growing disease burden in France. In particular, hospitalized patients with depressive or bipolar disorders suffer from weight gain impairing adherence to treatment and the quality of life. The objective of this preliminary study is to better understand determinants of weight gain and their synergetic effects, with the ultimate aim to develop a screening tool identifying at risk patients.

Material and methods:

Subjects were recruited at the private psychiatric clinic of Littoral, Rang-du-Fliers in the North of France according to pre-definite inclusion criteria. Data assessment has been based on 1) a retrospective case-control study using electronic medical records of depressive or bipolar patients (n = 207); 2) a prospective observational study (n = 20) using the medical records, and additional questionnaires at T0 (interview-administered) and T1 (self-administered) after an average length of hospital stay of 24.8 days (± 6.3) and 3) a cross-sectional study in depressive patients (n = 40) under psychotropic treatment at the day hospital, using the medical records and an interview-administered questionnaire. Descriptive and analytical statistics (Spearman rank correlations, binary logistic regression) were performed with SPSS statistics 17.0.

Results:

The mean age of all patients was 49.3 years (± 10.7). Patients’ weight change after hospital stay varied in the retrospective study from + 0.5 kg (± 1.98) [min: - 5.4 kg; max: + 8,4kg]. Patients at the day hospital had an mean psychotropic treatment duration of 7.8 years (± 7.8) and gained on average 17.6 kg (± 10,01). Weight gain was particularly related to the use of tricyclic antidepressants, classic antipsychotics and atypical antipsychotics. All psychotropic drugs were significantly associated with a change in eating behavior (rs = 0.37) which was significantly associated with weight gain (rs = 0.40). All studies observed significant associations between weight gain and a lower socio-economic profile (low financial resources, few social contacts, low level of education), polymedication and a sedentary lifestyle with a higher tobacco consumption and less sleeping hours.

Discussion:

This preliminary study confirms the complex interaction between psychotropic treatments, the modification of eating behavior which can be triggered by other determinants of weight gain in patients with depressive or bipolar disorders, such as tobacco consumption. The results provide new perspectives to create an innovative screening tool to improve the nutritional care in at risk patients. The development of such a tool is ongoing.
Almond snack consumption improves endothelial function in adults with moderate risk of cardiovascular disease: a randomised, controlled, parallel trial
Authors: Dikariyanto Vita , Berry Sarah , Smith Leanne , Francis Lucy , Robertson May , Kusaslan Eslem , O'Callaghan-Latham Molly , Ellis Peter , Chowienczyk Phil , Hall Wendy
Published: June 2020

Endothelial dysfunction is a predictor for cardiovascular disease risk and is a key feature of atherosclerosis. Poor diet quality, including consumption of saturated fat-rich, high-refined carbohydrate snack foods, may have adverse effects on endothelial function. Thus, snack foods, which contribute an average of 20% of energy intake in the UK adult population, present an easily identifiable target to improve vascular health. Almonds are nutrient-dense foods that are rich in unsaturated fats, fibre, minerals and non-nutrient bioactives (NNB), and may have health benefits by displacing snacks high in refined carbohydrates, enriching the diet with micronutrients and NNB, and/or low lipid bioaccessibility. Human clinical trials have demonstrated LDL cholesterol-lowering effects of daily almond consumption, yet the effects on endothelial function are unclear. This study aimed to investigate whether replacing habitual snacks (20% estimated daily energy requirements) with almonds had any impact on endothelium-dependent vasodilation, measured by flow-mediated dilatation (FMD) using ultrasound imaging of the brachial artery following reactive hyperaemia. A randomised, controlled, parallel trial in adult regular snack consumers aged 30–70 y at moderate risk of cardiovascular disease was conducted, including a 2-week run-in period with control snacks and a 6-week intervention period. Control sweet and savoury mini muffin snacks were developed to replicate the average UK snack nutrient profile, which was calculated from snack foods identified in the UK National Diet and Nutrition Survey (NDNS) database (55% energy from carbohydrate, 36% total fat (14% saturated fat), and 10% protein). One hundred and nine volunteers (77 females and 32 males; mean age 56 y) were enrolled in the study and 107 were randomised to isocaloric treatments, 1) control muffins, or 2) dry roasted whole almonds; 105 participants completed the study. Almonds significantly increased FMD relative to control (mean difference 3.6%, 95% CI 1.7, 5.5; P < 0.001), indicating improved endothelial function, and LDL-cholesterol (mean difference -0.25 mmol/L, 95% CI -0.47, -0.03; P = 0.030) significantly decreased adjusted with sex, age and baseline BMI and baseline dependent outcome values. Snacking on whole almonds as a replacement for snacks high in refined starch and sugar, and low in fibre and unsaturated fatty acids, improves endothelial function. The results of this study provide further evidence for the importance of nuts in dietary strategies to reduce risk of cardiovascular disease.
Rearranging meal times during night shift work promotes weight change: a randomised crossover intervention in shift workers
Authors: Leung Gloria K. W. , Davis Rochelle , Huggins Catherine E. , Rosbotham Erika , Warnock Rebekah , Bonham Maxine P.
Published: June 2020

Up to 20% of the population in industrialised countries are employed as shift workers. Shift work is an independent risk factor for metabolic diseases, such as type-2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease (CVD) and obesity. This may be associated with shift workers’ typical habit of eating during the night, as it forces the body to process nutrients when the body is expecting a period of fast. This study aimed to examine whether redistributing meal times, to create a defined overnight fast period, can improve CVD risk factors in night shift workers.

Eligible participants were permanent or rotating night shift workers who habitually ate on night shift between 1am to 6am and had abdominal obesity as assessed by waist circumference, but were otherwise healthy. This randomised crossover trial comprised a four-week control period and a four-week intervention period separated by a minimum two-week washout period. During the intervention period, participants were advised to rearrange meal and snack times to create a five hour nightly fast between 1am and 6am. Up to four random 24-hour food recalls per participant were performed during both periods of the study, to check compliance and to assess energy intake. All recall periods included a night shift. Participants attended the research facility at the end of each period to be weighed (seca, gmbh & co. kg, Hamburg, Germany). Work schedule and meals were standardised 24 hours prior to attending the research facility. Data were analysed using paired t-test and reported as mean (SD).

Participants (n = 19) were aged 41(10) years. Daily energy intake was not markedly different between the two study periods, intake was 10633 (3591) kJ/ day in the intervention period vs. 10919 (4276) kJ/ day in the control period (n = 60 recalls in each period, p = 0.670). Body weight was significantly lower at the end of the intervention period compared with at the end of the control period (86.2 (17) vs. 87.1 (18) kg, p = 0.001). Similarly, BMI was lower at the end of the intervention period compared with end of control period (30.7 (6) vs. 31.1 (6) kg/m2, p = 0.001).

Increasing evidence indicates that working night shifts potentiates weight gain. We show that advising shift workers to avoid eating during 1am and 6am for a four-week period had a positive impact on body weight. Manipulating meal and snack times for shift workers may be a simple strategy to assist in weight management.
Alkylresorcinols (biomarkers of whole grain intake), cereal fibre intake and metabolic profile - results from a European study
Authors: Kyrø Cecilie , Biskup Izabela , Brunius Carl , Riegels Thomsen Birthe Lykke , Romieu Isabelle , Jenab Mazda , Eriksen Anne Kirstine , Bueno-de-Mesquita Bas , Riboli Elio , Lu Yunxia , Weiderpass Elisabete , Aleksandrova Krasimira , Tjønneland Anne , Olsen Anja , Landberg Rikard
Published: June 2020

Background:

High intakes of whole-grains and cereal fiber have been consistently associated with lower risk of cardiometabolic diseases in observational studies. Yet, improved understanding about the underlying mechanisms is needed. We hypothesized that cereal fiber and whole-grain are associated with beneficial metabolic marker profiles.

Aim:

To investigate if cereal fiber intake, estimated by food frequency questionnaires and plasma total alkylresorcinols concentrations as well as the C17:0/C21:0-ratio in plasma as biomarkers of whole-grain wheat and rye intake or the relative whole-grain rye to wheat intake, respectively, were associated with metabolic biomarkers.

Design:

A cross-sectional study conducted to investigate the associations between alkylresorcinols as biomarker of whole-grain wheat and rye intake, cereal fiber and selected metabolic biomarkers among 954 participants of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) study. Cereal fiber intake was assessed by FFQ and whole grain wheat and rye were reflected by biomarkers analyzed in plasma samples, i.e. total alkylresorcinol (AR). Moreover, the ratio of two of the five measured alkylresorcinols (AR C17:0/C21:0 ratio) was used as an indicator of whole-grain source (wheat or rye). Metabolic biomarkers (HbA1c, C-peptide, IGFBP-1, IGFBP-2, total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, apolipoprotein A-I (apoA), apolipoprotein B (ApoB) and CRP) were measured in blood samples. All biomarkers were already measured for nested case-control studies of colorectal cancer matched based on sex, study center, age at blood collection, date and time of blood collection, fasting status. Women were further matched by menopausal status, phase of menstrual cycle, and use of oral contraceptives or hormone replacement therapy at time of blood collection. Multivariable linear regression analysis was used to investigate the relationship between exposure variables metabolic biomarkers adjusted for case-control status and common confounders.

Results:

No associations were found between cereal fiber intake and the metabolic markers. However, whole-grain wheat and rye intake, reflected by total AR, was associated with a lower concentration of the inflammation marker CRP. The alkylresorcinol C17:0/C21:0 ratio was not associated with any of the measured metabolic markers in this cohort.

Conclusion:

Overall, we found no support for an association between cereal fibre intake, whole grain wheat and rye intake reflected by biomarkers and metabolic markers in the present cohort. One exception was the finding of an inverse association between whole grain biomarkers and CRP. Prospective studies or RCTs are warranted to confirm our findings.
Marine-derived fatty acids therapy for stroke: a systematic review
Authors: Alvarez Campano Celia Gabriela , Macleod Mary Joan , Aucott Lorna , Thies Frank
Published: June 2020

With stroke burden increasing rapidly in recent years, the need for therapies that mitigate the acute insult persists(1). Experimental stroke evidence has shown a neuroprotective effect of marine-derived n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), resulting in improved functional outcomes(2). However, evidence in humans remains unclear. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review(3) to evaluate the effects of marine-derived n-3 PUFAs on functional outcomes and dependence after stroke. Secondary outcomes included vascular-related death, recurrence, and adverse events.

We searched the Cochrane Stroke Group trials register and the following databases: Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL EBSCO, and Web of Science (SCI-EXPANDED, CPCI-S, and BIOSIS). We also hand-searched relevant sources and used the Science Citation Index Reference Search. We included randomised controlled trials (RCTs) assessing marine-derived n-3 PUFAs intervention in people with history of stroke and/or transient ischaemic attack. Two authors independently selected trials, extracted data, assessed risk of bias, and evaluated the quality of the evidence. We contacted study authors for clarification and conducted random effects meta-analysis or narrative synthesis, as appropriate. We divided studies by follow-up length (up to three months and more than three months).

Twenty-nine RCTs were included. Of these, nine studies (3,339 participants) provided outcome data with only one study assessing acute stroke (subarachnoid haemorrhage). Doses of marine-derived n-3 PUFAs ranged from 400 to 3,300 mg per day. Functionality was assessed only in two small studies, one in each follow-up category. These trials reported a trend in improvement (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.36 to 1.68, 40 participants; and mean difference 7.09, 95% CI -5.16 to 19.34, 52 participants; respectively). However, due to imprecision and small sample size, the quality of the evidence was very low. No studies reported on acute ischaemic stroke.

Our results show that, currently, evidence on the effect of marine-derived n-3 PUFAs on functional outcomes of stroke is limited and of very low quality. Therefore, more RCTs are needed, especially in the acute phase, to determine whether such intervention could improve stroke outcomes.

This abstract is based on a post-peer review version of a Cochrane Review. Upon completion and approval, the final version is expected to be published in the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
Usual intake modelling is essential in assessing nutritional adequacy in populations
Authors: Tapanainen Heli , Kaartinen Niina , Männistö Satu , Valsta Liisa
Published: June 2020

Using short-term assessment methods to study diet provide too wide population intake distributions leading to overestimation of tail probabilities. Usual intake modelling reduces the variation in the distribution. The objective of this study was to evaluate the amount of bias in proportions of population under average requirement (AR) or recommended intake (RI) using the mean intake of two days compared to usual intake distribution. The FinDiet 2017 Survey was carried out in a nationally representative sample from the population register including adults aged 18–74 years. The data included two non-consecutive 24-hour dietary recalls from 1 655 participants (response rate 53%). Weighing factors were used to correct for non-participation bias. Usual intake was estimated using statistical program SPADE (RIVM, The Netherlands). The proportions of the population below AR or RI (when AR is not available) according to NNR 2012 were evaluated using two days mean intake and the usual intake distribution. These were further compared to evaluate the bias in two days mean intake. The bias associated with two days mean intakes was substantial in some of the nutrients. For example, for vitamin C and D intakes the difference between the proportions using two days mean and usual intake was over 10 percentage points. For vitamin C intake from food the proportions below AR (60 mg/day for men, 50 mg/day for women) were 38% for men and 20% for women using two days mean but 13 percentage points smaller for both sexes based on usual intake. The proportions below AR (7.5 μg/day) for vitamin D from food were 25% for men and 40% for women using two days mean and 14% for men and 30% for women using usual intake. When taking the intake from supplements into account, the proportions for vitamin D intake were 16% for men and 21 % for women based on two days mean but only 7% for both sexes using usual intake. For calcium intake from food the proportion below AR (500 mg/day) was small (7% for men and 8% for women) using two days mean but more than 50% smaller using usual intake (3% for both sexes). Using two days mean intake to estimate nutritional adequacy can lead to considerable biased results due to extraneous day-to-day variation in the intake distribution. Therefore, usual intake modelling should always be applied to intakes derived from short-term dietary assessment methods when evaluating nutritional adequacy.
Nutrition of children and gastrointestinal microflora in the insult of diagnostic parameters
Authors: Frajberg Małgorzata , Przybyłowicz Katarzyna Eufemia , Kłe˛bukowska Lucyna
Published: June 2020

Does dietary intervention affect the change of the intestinal microflora, causes the unsealing of the intestinal mucosa. After four weeks of dietary intervention with FODMAP diets and a diet based on NICE recommendations in children with functional abdominal pain, the intestinal microflora will change and the level of zonulin will decrease.

Bacterial intestine, intestinal bacteria is a set of microorganisms, the main bacteria that form a complex ecosystem in the digestive tract. Scientific research indicates that some bacteria may contribute to the formation of certain disease entities.

Children with functional abdominal pain participated in the research.

The study was a randomized intervention and a double-blind test. 32 children were examined, patients of gastroenterological counseling center of the Provincial Specialist Children's Hospital in Olsztyn. Children were 4–12 years old, functional abdominal pain was diagnosed on the basis of Roman criteria, a positive decision of the gastroenterologist regarding the inclusion of the patient, conscious and voluntary consent of the child's guardian to participate in the study. Exclusion criteria include irritable bowel syndrome, abdominal migraine, diagnosed food allergies or food intolerance, the coexistence of chronic diseases or antibiotic therapy in the last 8 weeks.

The dietary intervention lasted 4 weeks, meals were prepared on the basis of a menu developed by a dietician.

Diagnostic tests were carried out before and after dietary intervention. One group of children with functional abdominal pain received the Fodmap diet, the second group, a diet based on NICE recommendations.

The intestinal microflora, the level of zonulin in the stool were tested and the organic acids in the urine were determined by capillary gas chromatography/mass spectrometers (GC/MS).

A preliminary analysis of test conditions prior to dietary intervention was found.

Dysbiosis occurred in all 26 children (4 children did not perform the test). An increased number of Bacteroides spp. Was observed in the majority of children in stool tests, studies have reported that the growth of this bacterium in the intestinal microflora occurs in IBD intestinal inflammatory syndrome. Preliminary researches show that this bacterium was dominant in the examined children. In the test, an intermediate urine dysbiosis test of 24 out of 26 children was tested had at least one parameter elevated. After the dietary intervention, the diet had an effect on changing the intestinal microflora, changing the parameters of dysbiosis and the parameter of zonulin, although more research is needed on a larger population.