bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The contribution of breakfast cereals to non‐starch polysaccharide intakes in English men and women
Authors: Emmett P. M. , Symes C. L. , Heaton K. W.
Published: March 2008

Seven hundred and thirty‐nine men aged 40–69 years and 976 women aged 25–69 years (65% of a stratified random sample of the population) answered a validated food‐frequency questionnaire focused on carbohydrates and which included questions on breakfast cereal eating and smoking habits. Increased intakes of non‐starch polysaccharide (NSP) in breakfast cereals were associated with higher intakes of NSP from other sources, and also with higher intakes of vitamin C and with less smoking. Insoluble NSP intakes were doubled in people eating bran‐enriched cereals regularly, compared with those who did not eat such cereal. The government target for the population of an average NSP intake of 18 g/day was consistently met only by people eating whole‐grain or bran‐enriched cereals regularly.
The contribution of breakfast to micronutrient adequacy of the Irish diet
Authors: Sommerville Jill , O'Reagan M.
Published: March 2008

A 7‐day diet history was completed by 1213 subjects in Ireland between the ages of 8 and 80 years. Subjects were divided into breakfast skippers, cereal eaters or non‐cereal eaters.

Ninety‐seven per cent of the population ate breakfast. Sixty‐eight per cent were breakfast‐cereal consumers and of these 62% ate breakfast six to seven times per week. The contribution which breakfast cereal makes to the total daily nutrient intake was calculated for males and females separately, and also for the two age‐groups 8–18 years and >18 years. Iron intakes were lower than the RNI for all females but cereal consumers appeared more likely to achieve their RNI than breakfast skippers and non‐cereal consumers. Breakfast‐cereal consumers had significantly higher intakes of vitamins B, B12, niacin, folate, B12, vitamin D, calcium and iron. For females not consuming a breakfast cereal, mean nutrient intakes of folate and calcium were lower than the RNI. From this study, it appears that breakfast cereal consumption makes a significant contribution to nutrient intake in the Irish diet.
High‐calorie fibre‐rich breakfast: its effect on satiety
Authors: Turconi G. , Bazzano R. , Caramella R. , Crovetti R. , Porrini M.
Published: March 2008

This study was designed to test whether a substantial fibre‐rich breakfast could influence satiety sensations and daily energy. In non‐consecutive weeks 24 volunteers were given two high‐fibre cereals (Kellogg's ‘Bran Flakes’ and Kellogg's ‘All Bran’) in a breakfast meal that accounted for about 20% of the total daily energy intake. During the trial a questionnaire for hunger and satiety sensations was filled out just before, immediately after and 1, 2, 3 and 4 h after breakfast. The more reliable questions in evaluating sensations correlated to hunger and satiety were: ‘How satiated do you feel?’ and ‘How full do you feel?’. Significant differences in the satiety sensations were found for the experimental breakfasts compared to the usual one. There was no statistical differences between the two cereal breakfast meals, however, the highest scores of fullness and satiety always corresponded to the highest fibre content. Furthermore, after the two experimental breakfasts the calorie intake at lunch was lower than after the habitual one. Regression analysis showed a positive linear correlation between the scores corresponding to satiety sensations and the fibre and energy intakes. The findings indicate that a substantial breakfast rich in fibre has a positive impact on subsequent food intake and the sensations associated with satiety.
Sustained post‐ingestive action of dietary fibre: effects of a sugar‐beet‐fibre‐supplemented breakfast on satiety
Authors: Burley Victoria J. , Paul Andrew W. , Blundell John E.
Published: March 2008

Eighteen non‐obese male and female subjects attended the Human Appetite Research Unit on two separate occasions in order to consume a control or a fibre‐supplemented breakfast. Each breakfast consisted of orange juice, milk, grilled tomato, butter, jam, breakfast cereal, bread, crispbread and English sausages and was served with a hot beverage. The latter four foods were prepared with and without the addition of sugar‐beet fibre which generated an additional non‐starch polysaccharide content of 29 g.

Following consumption of these breakfasts, subjects recorded their perceived level of hunger on an hourly basis using 100‐mm visual analogue scales. Direct assessment of motivation to eat was made by the administration of an ad libitum test lunch (4 J h after breakfast). Further food intake was recorded by the subjects in a food diary for 36 hours.

At the ad libitum test lunch a 14% lower energy intake was observed following the high‐fibre breakfast (4345 vs. 4178 kj, t‐2.59 17 d.f. P<0.01). Following the ad libitum lunch meal the difference in energy intake, as recorded in the food diaries after the two breakfasts was sustained. These data clearly suggest that sugar‐beet fibre has a potent action upon satiety and merits further investigation with regard to its use in the treatment and/or prevention of obesity. The study indicates that the prolongation of satiety by fibre observed in our previous studies is not limited to foods naturally high in fibre but can also be a function of foods into which fibre has been incorporated. The results demonstrate that one high‐fibre meal can exert effects upon appetite which are sustained for many hours.
Diet and Refsum's disease. The determination of phytanic acid and phytol in certain foods and the application of this knowledge to the choice of suitable convenience foods for patients with Refsum's disease
Authors: Brown P. June , Mei Guam , Gibberd F. B. , Burston D. , Mayne P. D. , McClinchy Jane E. , Sidey Margaret
Published: March 2008

One hundred and fifty‐one foods were analysed for phytanic acid and 57 foods for free phytol. Foods analysed included examples from all major food groups, beverages and confectionery.

No significant amount of phytanic acid was found in any food of purely vegetable origin. The sources of phytanic acid in the UK diet were confirmed to be foods derived from ruminant animals and fish. They include beef, lamb and products containing the milk fats of cows, sheep and goats. All fish were found to contain phytanic acid roughly in proportion to their fat content. Domestic and commercial fat blends containing animal fats (chiefly hydrogenated fish oils) and baked goods made from these fats contained phytanic acid: pure vegetable fat blends and foods containing them did not.

Free phytol was found in small amounts in a variety of foods but not in sufficient quantity to warrant the exclusion of any one item from the diet of patients with Refsum's disease.
The effect of dietary supplementation in continuing‐care elderly people: nutritional, anthropometric and biochemical parameters
Authors: Hankey C. R. , Summerbell J. , Wynne H. A.
Published: March 2008

The effectiveness of dietary supplementation for frail elderly subjects in continuing care was assessed by using nutritional measures of anthropometry and biochemistry and an 8‐week period of nutritional supplementation.

Of 20 recruits six died and the remaining subjects were divided into treatment and control groups. The treatment group were supplemented with a nutritionally complete drink. Build Up, 2 units daily, and up to 1500 k) daily from glucose polymer. Food intake was measured for 3 days at the start and end of the study using validated food‐intake records.

Significant differences were seen in anthropometric measures triceps skin fold thickness and arm muscle circumference in the supplemented cohort (P<0.05), but for no other anthropometric and biochemical measures. Glucose polymer intake varied greatly between individuals, range 539–1396 kJ, mean 931 kJ ± 113.7.

Before supplementation dietary intake did not reach current recommendations for most nutrients, but after supplementation only vitamin D intake was inadequate. The study concludes a role exists for dietary supplementation in frail elderly, but further studies to outline benefits and optimum methods are required.
Nutrition knowledge, attitude to healthier eating and dietary intake in pregnant compared to non‐pregnant women
Authors: Anderson A. S. , Campbell D. , Shepherd Richard
Published: March 2008

The nutrition knowledge, attitudes and dietary behaviour of a group of women in early pregnancy and a group of non‐pregnant women were compared to ascertain the impact of pregnancy on diet. The main results indicate that pregnant women do eat differently from non‐pregnant women, in particular intakes of zinc and vitamin C, and the nutrient density of protein and sodium were higher and intakes of alcohol lower in the pregnancy group compared to the non‐pregnant group. The group of pregnant women also tended to consume more milk and fruit and less chocolate, cakes and pastries compared to nonpregnant women. However, the differences in dietary behaviour between the two groups could not be accounted for by nutrition knowledge (the same in both groups). Higher scores for beliefs about ‘healthier eating’ and subjective norm were found in the early pregnancy group which might account for some of the observed differences between the groups. In addition, it is concluded that ‘historicity’ or a basic ‘knowledge’ of which foods to consume is prevalent in early pregnancy.
Micronutrient intakes in schoolchildren—is supplementation necessary?
Authors: Ruxton C. H. S. , Kirk T. R. , Belton N. R. , Holmes M. A. M.
Published: March 2008

To compare micronutrient intakes in primary schoolchildren with Dietary Reference Values, dietary intake was investigated in a sample of 136 children from Lothian Region. Most of the children had micronutrient intakes in excess of the reference nutrient intake while the actual percentage of children having intakes below the lower reference nutrient intake was less than predicted. These results suggest that concern regarding the sufficiency of children's diets to provide an adequate intake of micronutrients may be unfounded and that widespread use of vitamin supplementation in this age‐group does not appear to be necessary.
Clinical trial of a paediatric enteral feed
Authors: Finch H. E. , Lawson M. S.
Published: March 2008

A paediatric enteral feed, Paediasure, was given to children aged 1–8 years needing nutritional support. Those who had more than 60% of their energy from Paediasure were included in the trial which ran for 1–3 months. Anthropometric measurements were done at the start and at the end of the trial. Nutritional evaluations of Paediasure were made and compared with other enteral feeds.

It was found that children's growth was satisfactory on Paediasure, that it was well tolerated and palatable if given orally. Paediasure has a high‐nutrient density so when given at low volumes (which are required for overweight and some very underweight patients) the recommended nutrient intakes (RNI) are more likely to be met than if other enteral feeds are used.
Optimal nutrient requirements: important concepts
Authors: Fairweather‐Tait Susan J.
Published: March 2008

Current interest in the possible links between diet and the prevention of chronic diseases requires a re‐examination of nutrient requirements. This paper describes the philosophy behind existing dietary recommendations with special reference to the UK Dietary Reference Values report, and highlights important areas for future consideration.
Sugars consumption by 379 11–12‐year‐old English children in 1990 compared with results in 1980
Authors: Rugg‐Gunn A. J. , Adamson A. J. , Appleton D. R. , Butler T. J. , Hackett A. F.
Published: March 2008

The amount of sugars consumed by young adolescents was assessed in 1990 using the same methods as those employed in a similar survey in 1980. The children were the same age (mean 11 years 6 months) and from the same seven schools in both surveys. In 1980 405 children completed the study and 379 in 1990. Information was collected using two 3‐day dietary diaries, each child being interviewed by a dietitian upon completion of a diary. The dietitian in this study was calibrated closely with the dietitian who undertook the 1980 study so as to ensure comparable diet evaluation methods. Total sugars consumption was unchanged (117 g/day in 1980, 118 g/day in 1990) but consumption of non‐milk extrinsic sugars increased (83 g/day in 1980, 90 g/day in 1990) and milk and intrinsic sugars decreased (34 g/day in 1980, 28 g/day in 1990) between the two surveys. In 1990, non‐milk extrinsic sugars contributed 17% to total dietary energy intake, while milk and intrinsic sugars contributed 5%. There was little difference in per cent contributions between the sexes, but some social‐class trends were apparent. Confectionery provided 33% and soft drinks provided 27% of non‐milk extrinsic sugars, these two dietary sources providing 60% of non‐milk extrinsic or 46% of total sugars intake. These levels of consumption are considerably higher than those currently recommended in the UK.
The intake of nutrients by Northumbrian adolescents from one‐parent families and from unemployed families
Authors: Moynihan P. J. , Adamson A. J. , Skinner R. , Rugg‐Gunn A. J. , Appleton D. R. , Butler T. J.
Published: March 2008

In order to tailor nutrition health education to ‘at risk’ groups, areas of nutritional insufficiency in the diets of such groups need to be identified. Low income and poor nutritional knowledge may predispose children from one‐parent families and/or unemployed families to a poor diet. The present study compared intakes of nutrients between Northumbrian adolescents from one‐parent and two‐parent families and between Northumbrian adolescents from unemployed and employed families. In 1990, 379 children aged 11–12 years completed two 3‐day dietary records, and were interviewed by a dietitian to verify the information given. Information on the employment status and number of parents of these children was obtained by questionnaire.

Compared to girls from employed families, girls from unemployed families had significantly higher intakes of energy, fat and carbohydrate. Boys from unemployed families had significantly lower intakes of iron and vitamin C than boys from employed families. Daily intake of energy and fat were significantly greater in girls from single‐parent families compared to girls from two‐parent families. No differences in intake of nutrients were observed between boys from one‐ and two‐parent families. No additive effect of being from both an unemployed and single‐parent family was observed.
The dietary intake of homeless males sleeping rough in Central London
Authors: Rushton Catherine M. , Wheeler Erica
Published: March 2008

Data concerning the food and beverage intake (including alcohol) of 79 males, aged 19–50 years, sleeping rough in Central London, who did not appear to be under the influence of drink, drugs or suffering from mental illness were collected by prompted 24‐h recall and food‐frequency questionnaire (FFQ). The source of food was noted and the subjects were asked about food availability and food needs. The group had intakes significantly lower than Dietary Reference Values (DRV) for the UK for energy, carbohydrate, non‐starch polysaccharides (NSP), folate, zinc and magnesium. Significantly higher values were seen for protein, fat, vitamin B12, calcium and iron. Alcohol intake was higher than that assumed to approximate current intakes of the UK population. Mean macronutrient intakes for the group were similar to means for British adult men (OPCS, 1990), only protein and NSP were significantly lower. The FFQ showed very low consumption/week of fruit, vegetables, salad, fruit juice and wholewheat/brown products. Organized charities provided the major source of food energy for the group as a whole. Self‐supplied sources provided the major source of total energy. It is suggested that the group may benefit from an increase in dietary fibre and energy, with an increase in the proportion of energy supplied by carbohydrate and a reduction in energy from fat and alcohol. A varied supply of food and hot meals during weekends as well as during the week may benefit the group both aesthetically and nutritionally. It may be advisable to increase the supply of wholemeal/brown bread, fruits, vegetables and salad foods without decreasing the energy content of the food available.
Nutritional status of elderly patients with venous ulceration of the leg–report of a pilot study
Authors: Lewis B. K. , Hitchings H. , Bale S. , Harding K. G.
Published: March 2008

Twenty elderly patients who attended the wound‐healing research unit for treatment of a chronic leg ulcer took part in this pilot study. Nutritional analysis showed the diet to be poor generally, with mean energy, zinc and vitamin C intakes falling below the EAR and/or RNI for people of this age‐group. Iron intake and quality of protein in the diet also gave cause for concern. While no firm conclusions regarding the impact of nutrition on healing can be drawn from this study, these preliminary results suggest that this group of patients is at risk nutritionally.
Protein and energy content of diets of patients undergoing haemodialysis for treatment of chronic renal failure–a short report
Authors: Cooper Caroline , Beaven Stephanie
Published: March 2008

Estimated food records of 27 patients attending Southmead Hospital haemodialysis unit for regular haemodialysis were analysed for protein and energy and the values compared with the patients' prescribed intake. Fifty two per cent did not meet their prescribed protein intake, 78% did not meet their prescribed energy intake and 52% did not meet their prescribed protein or energy intake. No significant relationship was found between undereating and being underweight.
A nocturnal nasogastric feeding programme in cystic fibrosis adults
Authors: Smith D. L. , Clarke J. M. , Stableforth D. E.
Published: March 2008

Fourteen adult patients (mean age 22.5 years, range 18–35) with cystic fibrosis undertook nocturnal nasogastric feeding for a mean period of 14.7 (range 6–18) months consuming an average of 1042 ml of a high energy feed on five nights of each week. Following this protocol all patients gained weight (mean weight gain 5.4 kg, range 2–17). For the group as a whole, lung function remained stable during the period of feeding; however a significant correlation between improvement in lung function and weight gain was demonstrated. Hyperglycaemia during feeding in this adult population was common (9/14, 64%) but was easily controlled with insulin therapy.
Nutrition of old people in sheltered housing
Authors: Caughey P. , Seaman C. , Parry D. , Farquhart D. , MacLennan W. J.
Published: March 2008

Two hundred and thirty‐five sheltered housing tenants (59 men and 176 women) were investigated by using the 24‐h dietary recall and checklist devised by the Nutrition Advisory Group on the Elderly (NAGE) to estimate their energy and nutrient intakes, and by measuring their body weight and demi‐span to calculate ratios of weight to demi‐span. Sixty seven per cent had energy intakes below the mean previously recorded in a national survey of old people living at home, but most had an adequate intake of protein, while, in 44%, the proportion of energy consumed as fat exceeded 35%. For most nutrients, few tenants had intakes below the lower recommended nutrient intake (LRNI). Exceptions were that there were 64% with pyridoxine intakes and 63% with vitamin D intakes below this level. Only 18% of men but 74% of women had weight to demi‐span ratios below the means recorded in elderly people living at home in another recent survey. There was no correlation between these anthropometric ratios and energy intakes.
Use of the PETRA scale in a weighed inventory study of British Asian children: methodological considerations
Authors: Harbottle L. , Duggan M. B.
Published: March 2008

A one‐year cross‐sectional survey of 4–40 month old Indo‐Asian children was carried out in Sheffield. The aim was to examine the dietary intakes and nutritional status of weanlings. Weighed inventories were facilitated by use of the PETRA scale (Cherlyn Electronics, Cambridge). Families were accessed via Child Health and GP clinics, targeted on the basis of information on age and ethnicity of Sheffield‐bom infants, derived from Central Clinic records. Studies were completed on 120 children (approximately a quarter of the target population). Diet histories were taken and food samples collected in order to validate the weighed intake method. Data collection and supervision of mothers was carried out by one Bengali and two Punjabi‐speaking fieldworkers, previously trained in nutrition and dietary assessment techniques. Although initial laboratory trials were successful, in field trials and in the main study, the scales proved to be less user friendly and more prone to damage than expected. Although our experience indicates that the PETRA scales do allow use of the weighed intake method for otherwise inaccessible, illiterate subjects, this is dependent on a high level of supervision.
Dietary intake and lifestyle patterns: correlates with socio‐economic, demographic and environmental factors
Authors: Smith A. M. , Smith C.
Published: March 2008

Four lifestyle dimensions were described based on 20 dietary behaviours as well as information about smoking behaviour, alcohol consumption and physical activity levels, in a sample of about 8000 survey participants from a population‐representative sample in Wales in 1990. The first lifestyle dimension, mainly described by frequent intakes of chips, pies and processed meats, Med foods, alcohol drinking and cigarette smoking, was associated with male gender, younger age and lack of University education. The second, mainly described by frequent intakes of green vegetables, fruit, fish, poultry and non‐smoking, was associated with older age, social group 1 and University education. The third, mainly described by frequent intake of pasta and rice and a high activity level, was associated with younger age, University education, and being born outside the UK. The final lifestyle dimension was mainly described by frequent intake of cakes, biscuits and sweets, non‐smoking, and low alcohol intake, but was only weakly associated with socio‐demographic factors. Local area differences in lifestyle patterns were also found. The benefits to health promotion of considering lifestyle as a pattern of inter‐related health behaviours, and addressing the underlying determinants of these behaviours at the personal, social and community levels, were reinforced by the findings of this study.
Nutritionists in industry can play a key role in helping to achieve Health of the Nation targets for nutrition
Authors: Kirk T. R. , Looy A. De , Fletcher R. , Ruxton C. H.
Published: March 2008

Nutritionists working in food manufacturing and retailing are potentially in a more powerful position than any other professional group to contribute towards achieving the national targets for nutrition and the reduction of nutrition‐related diseases, set out in The Health of the Nation (DoH, 1992) and in Scotland's Health, a Challenge to us All (Scottish Office, 1993). The present paper sets out the details of this argument. First, a review is given of the functions and types of activities carried out by nutritionists in industry. Then a number of key practical ways in which nutritionists, through their activities and functions, can help towards achieving national targets for nutrition and nutrition‐related diseases are described. Finally suggestions are made about the knowledge, skills and personal attributes needed by nutritionists who intend making successful careers in industry and who wish, at the same time, to contribute towards improving the health of the nation.
Dietary beliefs, practices and attitudes of adults in an inner city population
Authors: Griffiths S. , Chipperfield B. , Todd S. , Rushton C. , McCarthy M.
Published: March 2008

Dietary data from a representative sample of 1396 adults (603 males, 793 females) aged 18 years and over in the inner London district of Bloomsbury and Islington were analysed using five sets of questions from the 1990 Bloomsbury and Islington Health and Lifestyle Survey. Six qualitative dietary indicators were developed from two sets of food frequency questions to give score ratings for intakes of saturated fat, positive healthy choices for fat, high fibre starchy foods, fruit and vegetables, sugar, and an index of healthy dietary practice. These indicators along with the data from the remaining three sets of questions were analysed to examine the dietary beliefs, attitudes and practices of different age and sex groups in the study population.

About one‐third of men and a fifth of women over 18 years old had poor dietary practice, while a fifth of men and two‐fifths of women had good dietary practice. Younger (age 18–29) and older (age 60 +) groups had poorer dietary practice than adults of middle age. The younger adults with poor dietary practice were more likely to want to change to a healthy diet than older people, whereas a higher proportion of older adults (men aged over 45, women over 60) than younger adults showed a low level of awareness of what a healthy diet comprises.

For health promotion intervention, all men, especially those aged 18–29 and over 45 years and women aged 18–29 and over 60 years need to be targeted for some change in dietary practice. These groups and middle aged (30–44 years) men in particular may benefit from a change of belief or attitude towards diet.

Limitations of the survey questionnaire, and thus the dietary indicators used for analysis are discussed, and suggestions for planning future survey work of this kind are made.
Dynamics of food habits of newly married couples: who makes changes in the foods consumed?
Authors: Craig Pippa L. , Truswell A. Stewart
Published: March 2008

One hundred and twenty subjects were asked to state the frequency with which they consumed 44 foods and drinks on three separate occasions; before marriage, after five months of marriage, and again after two and a half years of marriage. A method was devised to assess change in eating patterns, based on convergence or divergence of reported frequency of consumption of these 44 food items. Eating habits became more similar with marriage, although initial convergence tended to relax with time. Husbands were more likely to make convergent changes than wives as marriage lengthened, presumably because wives made more decisions about food purchasing. There was no consistent pattern to which foods wives and husbands made convergent changes. However, wives as a group tended to consume more of their preferred foods than their husbands did; and husbands as a group tended to eat their preferred foods more frequently. Nutrition education for this relatively neglected group should be directed predominantly towards wives.
Changes in the diets of university students over a six‐year period (1986–1991)
Authors: Eves Anita , Kipps Michael , Parlett Graham
Published: March 2008

First year students from six consecutive years (1986–1991) completed one week weighed dietary surveys. From these data, dietary intakes of a variety of nutrients were determined. Data were compared with literature values for other young adults; with recommended daily amounts (RDA) in place at the time, and where appropriate with more recent dietary reference values (DRV).

Results show that nutrient intakes, including alcohol intakes, of students were generally similar to those of other young adults, and close to RDAs. Female students tended to eat a smaller proportion of their energy as fat, and their total energy intake showed a consistent decrease across the years studied. This could reflect the ever increasing emphasis on a slim female shape, and is notable as these females did not consider themselves to be on weight‐reducing diets. Intakes of minor nutrients showed few differences compared with other young adults, although a large variation in intakes was noted. On average, most vitamin intakes were above the RDA, but vitamin A intake amongst females was declining, and in latter years was below the RDA. Female intakes of riboflavin also tended to be low. Contrary to suggestions of low calcium intakes amongst adolescents, students were consuming more than the RDA, and more calcium than other young adults. A large proportion of the females, in all years, were not reaching the RDA for iron, suggesting the possibility of iron‐deficiency anaemia if intakes remain low.
A nutritional study of children with hearing and visual impairments in Lebanon
Authors: Shaar Khuzama , Baba Nahla , Shaar Maria , Merhi Jamal
Published: March 2008

This study was set up to investigate the nutritional status of children with hearing and visual impairments and to identify factors related to this nutritional status. A population‐hased survey was conducted to identify children with hearing and visual impairment aged 6–10 years attending schools for children with disabilities or residing in institutions that care for them throughout Lebanon [n = 185 children). Two comparison groups of age and sex‐matched children in public and private schools in the same neighbourhood of the disabled children were also selected (n = 370 children). Anthropometric measurements (height and weight) were taken as well as data on determinants of nutritional status such as father's occupation, disability type, institutionalization status, and mental well‐being. Results showed that children with sensory disabilities came from lower social classes, had more siblings, and displayed more aggressive behaviour. Anthropometric measurements showed that children with sensory disabilities were a nutritionally disadvantaged group with regard to their peers and to the US NCHS reference population, and that living within an institution was a major determinant of poor nutritional status. Intervention strategies in this regard are called for.
Weight and skeletal size: comparisons between elderly people living in the community and in sheltered housing
Authors: Caughey P. , Seaman C. E. A. , Parry D. A. , Farquhar D. , McLennan W. J. , Prescott R. J.
Published: March 2008

Measurements of body weight and skeletal size were collected from 215 tenants living in sheltered housing in Scotland, and compared with data from a study of 890 men and women, aged over 65 and living at home in Nottingham. A comparison between these two sets of information indicates that differences in mean weights were marginal, but that in those living in sheltered housing in Scotland (who were significantly older, P< 0.001) demispan was shorter [P< 0.001) and weight for size was greater [P< 0.001). Results indicate that those living in sheltered housing in Scotland maintained body weight slightly better than their counterparts living at home, despite being in poorer health. Improved maintenance of body weight in those of greater age and poorer health may be due to the practical and social support provided in sheltered housing. While caution is required where data from two separate geographical regions are compared and while further support may be advisable for some, it appears that sheltered housing plays a role in the maintenance of nutritional status as age and frailty increase.
The use of sweets as rewards in schools
Authors: Burnett Christine
Published: March 2008

Personal interviews with headteachers and survey questionnaires from school staff were used to determine the extent of the use of sweets as rewards in six mainstream infant and junior and two special schools (for children with physical and behavioural difficulties) in Calderdale. The 96 questionnaires returned indicated that 41% of teachers used sweets as rewards occasionally and 3% used them often, with use markedly higher in special schools. Nine per cent of special school staff ranked sweets the most effective reward. Sweets were more likely to be given to children aged 5–7 years. Other uses of sweets included use to calm upset children by 7% of staff, and on special occasions such as birthdays and Christmas (83%). Policies on the consumption of sweets from home varied from an outright ban to no policy. The use of sweets as rewards is established as common practice in these Calderdale schools. This needs to be questioned in view of the risks to psychological health from the promotion of the association of sweets with achievement and comfort, and the risks to dental health from encouraging the eating of sweets.
The effect of the composition of very low‐ and low‐calorie diets on 1 week's weight loss in obese patients
Authors: O'Kane Mary , Wales John K.
Published: March 2008

Very low‐calorie diets (400 kcal:1.7 MJ) with different proportions of carbohydrate, protein and fat were given to obese in‐patients for 1 week using a Latin Square study design. This type of diet with a relatively high carbohydrate content produced a smaller weight loss when compared with diets with relatively high protein or fat content. In a second study, two very low‐calorie diets with a high or low carbohydrate content were compared in a randomized cross‐over design in obese patients for 1 week. Those patients receiving the diet with high carbohydrate content had a significantly lower weight loss. In a third study, these diets were continued for 2 weeks. A significant difference in weight loss was observed in the first week but not the second. In a fourth study the same effect of carbohydrate content was also observed using low‐calorie diets (800 kcal:3.4 MJ) for one week in obese patients. The explanation of this effect appears to be a decrease in the diuresis which usually accompanies the introduction of a very low‐calorie diet.
Dietary fat and appetite: similarities and differences in the satiating effect of meals supplemented with either fat or carbohydrate*†
Authors: Cotton Jacqui R. , Burley Victoria J. , Weststrate Jan A. , Bhmdell John E.
Published: March 2008

In experiment 1, normal weight male subjects were provided with three types of breakfast consumed in the Human Appetite Research Unit on separate experimental days 1 week apart. The intensity of hunger, fullness and other subjective feelings were tracked by means of visual analogue rating scales at intervals during the day. Energy and nutrient intakes were measured directly from ad libitum test meals consumed at lunch and dinner. During the rest of the day and until after breakfast the following day, food intake was measured indirectly through weighed food records. The test breakfasts comprised a basic meal 184 1 kJ (440 kcal) and the same meal supplemented with similar amounts of either fat (1515 kJ, 362 kcal) or carbohydrate (1527 kJ, 365 kcal). No differences were detected between the effects of the basic breakfast compared with the fat‐supplemented breakfast. The carbohydrate supplement suppressed hunger ratings during a limited period after consumption (the post‐ingestive window) coinciding with the expected metabolism of carbohydrate. In experiment 2, a direct test of consumption during this post‐ingestive window confirmed that the carbohydrate supplemented breakfast suppressed intake but the fat supplement did not. These results demonstrate that carbohydrate and fat can produce quite different effects on satiety. Under these experimental conditions the supplement of fat produced no detectable effect on the expression of appetite and illustrates how dietary fat could lead to passive over‐consumption of energy. However this effect may be modified by the particular pattern of food consumption during the course of a day.
Management of self‐starvation: a greater role for the nutritionist?
Authors: Dalzell A. M. , Wilcox J. , Patrick M. K. , Shepherd R. W.
Published: March 2008

There are no reports of controlled trials of management practices in anorexia nervosa, and a paucity of follow‐up data. We investigated the nutritional requirements of four adolescent females with the condition, and describe a management approach based on nutritional principles. The aim was to reverse the initial state of catabolism by enteral nutrition prior to any negotiation regarding oral energy consumption.

The median age of presentation was 14.15 years (range 14–16.1 years). All girls had abnormal perceptions relating to food and phenotype. The median weight loss in the preceding 6 months was 27% (range 21–33%). At presentation the median energy intake was 2710 kJ per day (range 2083–4166 kJ) and represented a median of 26% of that expected. The mean initial energy requirements to reverse the state of severe malnutrition were 14 634 kJ per day. The median time to regain 50% of lost weight was 44 days.

Energy requirements in this disease have been underestimated by both patients and caregivers. Supplementing oral intake with energy‐dense defined formulae delivered by nasogastric tube is a safe and rapid method of achieving nutritional rehabilitation in the early stages of self‐starvation.
A review of infant feeding practices at a regional cystic fibrosis unit
Authors: Simmonds E. J. , Wall C. R. , Wolfe S. P. , Littlewood J. M.
Published: March 2008

We have reviewed the outcome and feeding of the 28 cystic fibrosis (CF) infants diagnosed at St James's University Hospital, Leeds, during 15 years between 1974–1988. During this period most infants were fed on either standard formula milk feeds or a lower fat, higher protein mix (CF milk). It was the practice to prescribe pancreatic enzymes from the diagnosis of CF, wean the infant on to solids between 2 and 3 months of age and provide extra calorie supplements if infants were not thriving adequately. The mean weight at birth (s.d.) was 3.33 (0.45) kg and at 12 months was 9.56 (1.21) kg. It is concluded that CF infants provided with adequate energy intake and appropriate pancreatic enzymes should thrive satisfactorily.
Evidence of continuing ‘deprivational’ vitamin D deficiency in Asians in the UK
Authors: Iqbal S. J. , Garrick D. P. , Howl A.
Published: March 2008

In view of the large Asian population in Leicester and the continuing uncertainty about the level of vitamin D deficiency in this group, a preliminary study was undertaken to review the results of all 25(OH) vitamin D assays which had been performed in the previous 2 years with reference to the ethnic origin of the patients.

Results indicated that not only were more assays performed on Asian patients but also that these patients were significantly more likely to have low or undetectable levels of 25(OH) vitamin D. Over 50% of Asian patients screened had subnormal levels of 25(OH) vitamin D. Within the Asian group, women of child‐bearing age appeared in substantial numbers amongst those who had low 25(OH) vitamin D levels. The study indicates a continuing problem of vitamin D deficiency in Asians which requires further study.
A 3‐month survey of enteral tube feeding and parenteral feeding: a baseline for improvement
Authors: Frost G. , Stanford J. , Masters K. , Taylor T. , Ward L. , Walters J. R. F.
Published: March 2008

This paper presents the results of a 3‐month survey of tube feeding and parenteral nutrition in hospital in‐patients, undertaken to provide information for the development of guidelines by the Hospitals Nutritional Advisory Group and a baseline for future monitoring. This represents the first steps in the audit cycle. The results highlighted the following problems.

Total parenteral nutrition is often continued after bowel sounds have returned.

Enteral tube feeding is often instituted for only a very short period of time and may be of little nutritional benefit to the patient.

Significantly lower amounts of energy and nitrogen are received by the patients in the enterally tube‐fed group than is indicated by their estimated energy and nitrogen requirements.

The medical staff noted the start of feeding in 60% of the case notes, however, the aims of feeding and the reason for commencing feeding were never documented. Nutritional aims were defined in the case notes by dietitians for all tube‐fed and 18 of the 20 patients who were parenterally fed.
The need for school‐based nutrition action groups
Authors: Passmore Sandra , Harvey Joe
Published: March 2008

The development of a school Nutrition Action Group (SNAG) is discussed, that would look at schools and their approach to nutrition and that would try to ensure that there is consistency between what is taught in the classroom and what food is actually available to the children. A SNAG involving the caterers, children, teachers and health professionals could influence food choices in a subtle rather than a dictatorial manner. All food outlets in a school need to be considered from breakfast to tuck‐shops, vending machines, school meals and social catering. Success depends upon the involvement and ownership of all food provision in the school by both consumers and providers.
Energy intakes of children with cerebral palsy
Authors: Reilly J. J. , Ralston J. , Clark A. , Day R. E.
Published: March 2008

The energy intakes of 13 children [seven girls, six boys, mean age 10 years (s.d. 4; range 4–15 years)] with cerebral palsy attending a residential school were measured by 3‐day weighed dietary record. Energy intake averaged 340 kj/kg per day (s.d. 93; range 102–424) which was higher than the group mean estimated energy requirement (271 kj/kg per day, s.d. 70; range 144–395). The mean coefficient of variation for day to day energy intake was 14%, and food energy not consumed (plate waste and food unsuccessfully ingested) averaged 22% of energy intake. Within the group there was little evidence of marked differences in energy intake between different diagnostic types of cerebral palsy or between children of different feeding/eating ability, although the sample size was too small to detect small between‐group differences in intake. Energy intake was somewhat higher than that reported in some other studies, but there was no evidence of the unusually high energy intakes which have been reported previously in some groups of children with cerebral palsy.
Diet and phenylketonuria: time for change?
Authors: MacDonald A.
Published: March 2008

This article is a report of a meeting of dietitians held on 15 September 1992 in Birmingham to discuss the recommendations of a ‘Medical Research Council Working Party on the Dietary Management of Phenylketonuria’. (Contributions on the day of the meeting came from Judith Houghton, Eleanor Weetch, Isabel Smith, Sheena Laing, Ruth Watling, John Walter, Rodney Pollitt.)
Protein and starch digestibility and iron availability in developed weaning foods as affected by roasting
Authors: Gahlawat Poonam , Sehgal Salil
Published: March 2008

Locally available cereals and pulses such as rice (Oryza sativa), kangini (Setaria italica), sanwak (Echinochloa frumentacea), green gram [Vigna radiata) and jaggery (unrefined brown sugar) were used to formulate three weaning foods. Cereal, pulse and jaggery were mixed in the ratio of 70:30:25. Roasting was the main processing technique used in the formulation of these weaning foods. The developed weaning foods were found to be economical and acceptable. The chemical composition of developed weaning foods was within the range prescribed by Indian Standard Institute (ISI). On roasting, in vitro protein and starch digestibility of weaning foods increased by 15–21% and 16–19%, respectively. Roasting also improved in vitro iron availability by 12–19%. These observations indicated that the weaning foods prepared from locally available food ingredients resulted in significant improvement in protein and starch digestibility and iron availability and could be used as supplements for meeting the nutritional requirements of infants.
Does low iron status influence psychological functioning?
Authors: Fordy J. , Benton D.
Published: March 2008

To examine the possibility that low iron status has functional consequences, 297 young adults were distinguished in terms of serum ferritin levels and were compared using measures of psychological functioning: digit span, reaction times, a measure of sustained attention and a questionnaire measure of mental health. Of the 297 young adults tested 51.6% of females and 11.5% of males had serum ferritin levels below 20 ng/1. In males being vegetarian, and in females dieting, was associated with lower ferritin values. In males, and females not taking the oral contraceptive pill, there was no association between low ferritin status and poor performance on various cognitive tests. In females taking the oral contraceptive pill, those with ferritin values below 5 ng/ml were significantly more likely to report being depressed. It was concluded that for most of this population there was little evidence that low iron status was associated with changes in psychological status.
Dietary intake in the elderly estimated by a 24 hour recall and a food frequency questionnaire
Authors: Caughey P. , Seaman C. E. A. , Parry D. A. , Farquhar D. L. , MacLennan W. J. , Prescott R.
Published: March 2008

Two hundred and thirty‐five tenants living in sheltered housing in Scotland were surveyed to identify the extent of under‐nutrition and the social factors which contribute to its development. A validated 24 h recall and the nutrient checklist published by NAGE were used to evaluate patterns of dietary intake. A questionnaire was developed which included scales designed to measure depression, social engagement, cognitive function, mobility and functional ability. The results show considerable evidence of a number of major nutrients in which there were low intakes. In order to express the extent of poor nutrition, a nutrient score was developed where points are awarded based on the number of nutrients falling below the Lower Reference Nutrient Intake, the Estimated Average Requirement or below half the daily Estimated Average Requirement.
Nutritional assessment of the iron status in a group of institutionalized elderly people in Madrid (Spain)
Authors: Ortega R. M. , Turrero E. , Andres P. , Moreiras O. , Gaspar M. J.
Published: March 2008

The iron status of a group of 73 institutionalized elderly people, 20 men and 53 women, aged 68–95 years, was evaluated by means of dietary, haematological and biochemical parameters.

Nutritional analysis revealed an average iron intake of 8.6 mg/day, which was below the recommended amount in 78% of the cases. However, the intakes of haem iron and of several promoters of iron absorption (as vitamin C and meat) were quite satisfactory.

Haematological and biochemical data revealed that 7.3% of the elderly had abnormal values for mean corpuscular volume and for transferrin saturation and were considered to have an impaired iron status; 4.9% had deficient haemoglobin values and an impaired iron status and suffered from anaemia. Based on dietary, haematological and biochemical data, women and those aged a 80 years presented a worse iron status than males and those aged ≥ 80 years.

The present findings show the importance of describing the nutritional status of the elderly population. Utilized in this way nutritional intervention can be used as an important clinical tool not only to prevent the occurrence of morbidity and mortality, but also, to enhance the quality of life of the elderly.